Written By: Dyan B. Detalla | Photos By: Jandawyne Francis M. Caluya

Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office IX successfully conducted its Exit Conference with the Commission on Audit (COA), reaffirming the agency’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sound financial management.

The activity formally marked the culmination of the audit process for the covered period and served as a venue for the presentation and discussion of audit findings, recommendations, and corresponding management responses.

It provided an opportunity for constructive dialogue between COA auditors and DILG officials to clarify observations, address concerns, and outline actionable steps moving forward.

Prior to the start of the formal discussions, the OIC – Regional Supervising Auditor, Omar M. Isnani, delivered a message emphasizing the vital role of audits in promoting transparency, strengthening internal controls, and ensuring that public funds are utilized optimally and in full compliance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. The Auditor underscored that the audit process is not merely evaluative but developmental — aimed at helping agencies improve systems and enhance public service delivery.

During the conference, Assistant Regional Director and Officer-in-Charge, 

Engr. Carmelo Enrique B. Libot,  expressed appreciation for COA’s continued guidance and partnership in strengthening internal controls and ensuring compliance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. He emphasized that audit recommendations are viewed not merely as compliance requirements, but as valuable inputs toward improving systems, processes, and overall service delivery.

COA representatives, led by Audit Team Leader, Mae Razelle S. Mantos, highlighted key observations and acknowledged the cooperation and responsiveness of DILG personnel throughout the audit process. Both parties underscored the importance of maintaining open communication and collaborative engagement in promoting good governance.

The activity concluded with a shared commitment to implement the audit recommendations within prescribed timelines and to further enhance financial stewardship across programs and operations.

DILG Regional Office IX remains steadfast in upholding integrity, accountability, and excellence in public service, in line with its mandate to ensure responsive and effective local governance.