The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has tapped the expertise of Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) and partner organizations in advancing a collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening fiscal governance and improving the institutional performance of local government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas.
The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the ISAT U Innovation Hub, bringing together representatives from DBM, ISAT U, Guimaras State University (GSU), and Junior Chamber International (JCI) Iloilo.
At the center of the partnership is the implementation of DBM SAIS, or Strategic Approach for Institutional Strengthening — Bridging LGU PFM Gaps and Advancing Performance Recognition through Diagnostic Results.
The project is designed to assist LGUs in identifying gaps and areas for improvement in public financial management (PFM). Through the use of diagnostic results and targeted institutional interventions, DBM SAIS seeks to translate identified challenges into concrete measures that can strengthen fiscal administration, governance systems, and overall organizational performance.
By bringing together government, higher education institutions, and civic organizations, the initiative also highlights the importance of cross-sector collaboration in building stronger and more responsive local governance systems.
Signing the agreement were DBM Regional Director Lianne Gayomali; ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr.; GSU President Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño; and JCI Regatta President Steve L. Navigar Jr.
Also present during the ceremony were the respective focal persons designated for the DBM SAIS project, along with personnel and representatives from the participating institutions who will contribute their expertise and support to the implementation of the initiative.
ISAT U’s participation in the partnership further strengthens the University’s role in extending its academic and technical expertise beyond the campus and contributing to programs that address the needs of government institutions and communities in the region.
