In an era when public trust in government is constantly tested by allegations of waste, inefficiency, and questionable spending, the latest recognition from the Department of the Interior and Local Government-National Capital Region delivered a thunderous message: accountability still matters, and results cannot be faked.
All 17 local government units in the National Capital Region successfully passed the 2025 Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) Assessment, maintaining NCR’s perfect record in fiscal responsibility and transparency.
But amid the list of passers, one city deserves special attention for proving that sound financial management is not just a slogan repeated during campaign season—it is a commitment translated into action.
Parañaque City has once again shown that discipline in public finance is the backbone of effective governance.
Under the leadership of Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez, and with the steady hand of City Treasurer Dr. Anthony L. Pulmano, JD., the city demonstrated that every peso entrusted by taxpayers must be accounted for and managed responsibly.
This recognition was not handed out as a political favor. It had to be earned.
To qualify for the Good Financial Housekeeping Seal, local governments must secure either an Unmodified or Qualified audit opinion from the Commission on Audit and strictly comply with the Full Disclosure Policy requirements.
These standards demand transparency, proper documentation, and adherence to financial rules that leave little room for shortcuts and excuses.
Parañaque passed.
And that speaks volumes.
At a time when critics are quick to point fingers whenever government falls short, it is equally important to recognize leaders who quietly do the difficult work of keeping the books in order, ensuring that financial records withstand scrutiny, and protecting public funds from misuse.
The city’s achievement reflects the importance of teamwork between policy makers and financial managers.
Mayor Olivarez continues to steer the city with an emphasis on continuity and responsible administration, while Dr. Pulmano has played a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of Parañaque’s fiscal operations.
The result is a city government capable not only of delivering services but doing so while maintaining financial credibility.
In tabloid language, the message is simple:
No hidden tricks. No smoke and mirrors. No fiscal circus.
While others talk about transparency, Parañaque puts it on paper and submits it for audit.
While others promise accountability, Parañaque opens its books and meets the standards.
While others chase headlines, Parañaque produces measurable results.
The 2025 Good Financial Housekeeping recognition is more than another certificate to hang on a government wall. It is proof that systems are working, that public money is being handled with responsibility, and that the people of Parañaque have officials who understand that trust is earned through performance—not press releases.
The challenge now is even greater.
Maintaining excellence is harder than achieving it once. Expectations rise. Public scrutiny intensifies.
Citizens demand more.
But if this latest recognition is any indication, Parañaque is prepared to meet that challenge head-on.
Because in the battle for public trust, flashy speeches fade.
Solid financial stewardship endures.
And in the 2025 Good Financial Housekeeping Assessment, Parañaque did not merely pass.
It sent a hard-hitting warning to every public official everywhere: taxpayers are watching, auditors are checking, and only those who govern with integrity survive the test.
