Events

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Quezon City, May 22, 2025 — The Association of Government Accountants of the Philippines (AGAP) successfully conducted a technical training on the “Guidelines and Procedures on the Disposal of Government Properties” at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club House, General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

The training was held in line with Joint Circular 2024-01, issued by the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on January 30, 2024. This circular outlines the updated policies and procedures for the disposal of government assets, a critical component of effective public financial management.

The event drew a record-breaking attendance of over 750 government employees from a wide array of national agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education (DepEd), and numerous other executive offices.

Opening Message from AGAP President

In her opening address, DILG Assistant Secretary Ester A. Aldana, CESO II, and AGAP President, welcomed the participants and underscored the vital role of disposal in the full lifecycle of government assets.

“Proper disposal of government properties is an important part of the asset lifecycle. It ensures accountability, efficiency, and sustainability in managing government assets,” she stated, addressing a hall filled with accounting, budgeting, property, supply, and administrative personnel from across the public sector.”

She emphasized that the seminar was not only timely but essential in equipping public servants with updated guidance aligned with the goals of transparency and responsible governance.

“The systematic and timely disposal of properties that are unserviceable, obsolete or no longer needed is essential to avoid further deterioration, prevent continued storage costs, relieve employees from unnecessary accountability, and effectively decongest government offices,” Asec. Aldana explained.”

Highlighting the broader implications, she noted that the revised manual supports the government’s commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“This Revised Manual aims to support the government’s social, economic and environmental sustainability... to ultimately save the government from unnecessary expenditures and help maximize savings.”

Expert Resource Speaker

The highlight of the seminar was a technical session conducted by the expert Resource Speaker from the Commission on Audit, Atty. Richard M. Fulleros, Director III, who provided a detailed walkthrough of the revised manual's provisions. His presentation covered the requirements and processes outlined in the circular, including appraisal, inspection, documentation, and disposal mechanisms such as public auction, negotiated sale, donation, or destruction.

Atty. Fulleros emphasized that proper disposal is not merely a procedural requirement—it is a cornerstone of fiscal discipline and ethical governance.  He elaborated on the specific roles and responsibilities of various personnel involved in the process, including Property Officers, Disposal Committees, and Agency Heads. The session also included real-world scenarios, addressing common challenges faced by agencies, such as untagged assets, undocumented transfers, and delayed disposals.

By bridging legal framework with operational realities, Atty. Fulleros provided participants with not just theoretical knowledge but actionable steps they can apply within their respective agencies to align with the revised manual and avoid costly errors.

His expertise and delivery were met with resounding praise, affirming his reputation as one of the foremost experts in government asset management and audit compliance.

Broad Applicability of the Guidelines

Joint Circular 2024-01 applies to all departments and agencies under the Executive Branch, including:

• Regional and Field Offices
• State Universities and Colleges (SUCs)
• Government Corporations (GCs) and their subsidiaries
• Local Water Districts (LWDs)
• Local Government Units (LGUs)

The standardized procedures help promote operational efficiency, financial accuracy, and compliance with audit requirements across all levels of government.

AGAP’s Role in Capacity Building

The event is part of AGAP’s ongoing efforts to enhance technical competence among government accountants and administrators. By organizing timely and relevant seminars, AGAP supports the government’s push toward reforms in asset management and fiscal accountability.

Participants expressed their appreciation for the clarity and relevance of the training, noting its immediate applicability in aligning agency policies with the new regulatory framework.

With the success of this training, AGAP reaffirms its role as a key partner in strengthening financial governance in the Philippine public sector.