THERE'S HOPE!
GUEST COLUMNIST
Public service is often romanticized as a noble endeavor, a calling for the greater good. The reality of being a public servant, however, is far from simple or ceremonial.
Government work entails navigating complex bureaucratic processes, balancing diverse stakeholder interests, and enduring intense public scrutiny, all while striving to deliver essential services with limited resources.
In the case of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), managing the budget while attempting to address the diverse and growing needs of various sectors is a constant challenge. We likewise have to deal with economic challenges, inflation, and other macroeconomic factors that can affect revenue collection and budget planning. So many factors are at play.
It is especially challenging now that it is the budget season, a critical time for the Philippine government, when we set the financial framework for the country's programs and initiatives, influencing economic development and public service delivery.
Two weeks ago, I participated in a series of Executive Review Board (ERB) meetings, where I witnessed the dedication and resilience of the top brass of DBM. For context, the ERB consists of the DBM leadership, headed by Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman. It evaluates all proposals and funding amounts from agencies, for inclusion in the proposed National Expenditure Program (NEP). The finalized NEP is then presented to the President and the Cabinet, and, once approved, to Congress for scrutiny.
The late nights, the tireless efforts, and the unwavering commitment to ensuring that every budget allocation is meticulously reviewed and justified—all these are part and parcel of the process. I salute the individuals who sacrifice a great deal of time and energy to guarantee that every session is productive and every decision is made with the nation’s best interests in mind.
One of the most demanding aspects of our role at the DBM is the delicate balancing act we must perform. We have to serve the interests of both the public and private sectors, a responsibility that requires not only a keen understanding of economic principles but also a deep empathy for the needs and aspirations of the people.
On one hand, we must ensure that public funds are allocated efficiently and effectively, supporting essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These allocations directly impact the quality of life of Filipinos and are crucial for the nation's development.
On the other hand, we must consider the needs of the private sector, which drives economic growth and creates employment opportunities. Striking the right balance between these often-competing interests is no easy feat and requires a nuanced approach that takes into account the broader economic landscape and the long-term implications of our decisions.
Beyond DBM, and I have said this often, public service is not for the weak-kneed and craven. It is a thankless job that tests your strength and deprives you of sleep. There are times when you will experience spending days away from family, and yet, in return, you get to be the public’s object of ridicule, hate, and mockery. But, still, you have to always work hard.
Serving the public involves a level of dedication and resilience that few other professions require. The scrutiny we face, both from the public and from various stakeholders, can be intense. Further, the pressure to deliver results promptly, often with limited resources, can be overbearing.
Reflecting on the DBM once more, the duty of managing the nation’s budget is enormous, with high stakes. Any misstep can have far-reaching consequences, affecting millions of lives and the country’s economic stability. This is why I am incredibly impressed by how Sec. Mina handles these complexities with remarkable skill.
Of course, despite these tribulations, there is a profound sense of fulfillment in public service. The knowledge that our work has the potential to create positive change and improve the lives of our fellow citizens is great motivation. It is this sense of purpose that keeps us going, even when the going gets tough.
Public service may be an unforgiving and often unappreciated work, but it remains an essential and honorable pursuit. For those who choose this path, the merits are not measured in accolades or financial gain but in the lasting impact of their work on the nation and the Filipinos.
There is hope!
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