Nueva Vizcaya Gov. Jose Gambito directed all provincial government departments to adopt stringent austerity measures to ensure that the benefits of public funds are maximized.
Gambito issued Executive Order No. in a bid to curtail unnecessary expenditures and enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of government programs and projects.
He emphasized the need for each department to scrutinize spending and eliminate costs that do not directly support the provincial government’s objectives and mission.
“We must ensure that our financial resources are managed wisely and directed towards initiatives that truly benefit our community,” the governor said.
The executive order called for the postponement of non-essential activities like private sector training, workshops, seminars, and conferences, especially if they cost the local government money.
Additionally, cultural and social events, including conventions, symposiums, and orientations that are not critical to government operations should be minimized.
“Expenditures that do not contribute to our core mission or can be deferred without compromising the quality of our services should be avoided,” Gambito said.
Provincial government employees were also instructed to adopt cost-saving practices in their daily operations, including the judicious use of office supplies, electricity, and other utilities, as well as other routine operating expenses.
Gambito earlier directed various provincial government offices to defer projects and programs that they are unable to implement despite being funded for this year.
The total amount of the deferred projects is nearly P20 million and includes, among others, the construction of the NVDRRM Command and Control Center, the enhancement of the field monitoring system of the Nueva Vizcaya Climate Change Center and the construction of a dog pound.
Gambito said these projects could still be funded in the next fiscal year.
“This initiative is not merely about reducing costs – it is about instilling a culture of efficiency, accountability, and responsible governance,” he added.
