Newly designated officer-in-charge Rolando Toledo on Monday vowed to steer the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) with steadiness and integrity, saying his nearly four decades of service have prepared him to uphold reforms and ensure that the President’s priorities translate into actual programs and funding.
Toledo, one of the agency’s longest-serving technocrats, said experience would guide his leadership of the institution at a time when the national budget is under intense public scrutiny.
“Makakaasa po kayo na handa tayo sa anumang hamon (You can be assured that we are prepared for any challenge),” he said.
He added that advancing DBM’s ongoing reforms remains at the core of his mandate.
“Sisikapin natin na hindi lang maipagpatuloy ang mga repormang ating isinusulong, kundi lalo pa po nating pagtitibayin ang mga ito (We will strive not only to sustain the reforms we have begun but to further strengthen them),” he said.
“Higit sa lahat, sisiguruhin po natin na ang mga prayoridad ng Pangulo ay malinaw na nakapaloob sa ating budget at mararamdaman ng bawat Pilipino (Above all, we will ensure that the President’s priorities are clearly reflected in the budget and felt by every Filipino),” he added.
Toledo, a certified public accountant who started in government service in 1987, has risen through the ranks of the DBM, serving as bureau director, assistant secretary, and undersecretary across multiple administrations.
He most recently oversaw the Budget Preparation and Execution Group, the DBM’s central unit for crafting and implementing the national budget.
Toledo said the DBM would continue to push for transparency, faster budget releases, and better coordination with agencies and local government units, especially as the administration prioritizes education, food security, infrastructure, health, and social protection.
“The work continues, and so does our commitment to a better future for every Filipino,” he said.
Toledo takes over the DBM following the resignation of Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. (PNA)