ENHANCED PUBLIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT ASSESSMENT TOOL (ePFMAT): STRENGTHENING BUDGET OFFICE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Public Administration

The study examines the contribution of the enhanced Public Financial Management Tool (ePFMAT) in strengthening the financial management of pillars under the Budget Office's responsibility in the Province of Dinagat Islands. Anchored on the principles of New Public Management (NPM), the research uses a validated survey to assess whether the tool contributes to improving the Budget Office's financial management. The survey reveals that the respondents agree that the tool strengthens their financial management. This result affirms that respondents perceived the use of ePFMAT to contribute positively to financial management related to their function. Notable benefits identified include the improved compliance with budget disclosure requirements and increased availability of budgetary information to stakeholders. The result also higllights the data entry backlogs during peak budget seasons and limited awareness and participation capacity among civil society organizations as the major challenges encountered the use of the tool. These recurring issues warrant attention as they directly affect the effectiveness and inclusiveness of financial management practices particularly affecting geographically isolated areas such as the Province of Dinagat Islands. The study proposes an intervention plan that includes an information campaign to Civil Service Organizations (CSOs) and designation of additional personnel. This study offers insights to policymakers, LGUs, and the academic community on enhancing lower-income local government units' fiscal management and governance.

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