Aguinaldo stands out as lone Ifugao LGU earning 2026 PHALGA National Excellence Award for Clean Audit Record

Aguinaldo, Ifugao – The Municipality of Aguinaldo, Ifugao, has earned the 2026 National Excellence Award from the Philippine Association of Local Government Accountants, Inc. (PHALGA) in recognition of its sound financial management, transparency, and clean audit record.

PHALGA is a national organization of provincial, city, and municipal accountants that promotes accountability, transparency, and efficiency in public financial management across the country.

Prior to receiving the award, Aguinaldo obtained an Unmodified Opinion (UO) from the Commission on Audit (COA) after its financial statements were found to be properly prepared and presented in accordance with applicable financial reporting standards.

According to COA, an Unmodified Opinion—commonly referred to as a “clean opinion”—is issued when auditors determine that financial statements are fairly presented, in all material respects, and comply with the applicable financial reporting framework.

As a result, Aguinaldo was recognized by PHALGA through the 2026 National Excellence Award for its proper recording, management, and reporting of public funds.

Notably, Aguinaldo was the only local government unit in Ifugao to receive the prestigious award, joining only Bauko, Mountain Province, among the recognized LGUs from the Cordillera region.

The municipal government, under the leadership of Mayor Clemente S. Talusig, said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of the Municipal Accounting Office headed by Municipal Accountant Atty. Ruth Esther Bogwana-Burgess, as well as the employees and personnel from various LGU offices who worked together to uphold accountability and good governance.

“This honor belongs to every public servant working with integrity and commitment for the people of Aguinaldo,” the LGU stated through the municipality’s Information Office.

The local government also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the same level of excellence in the years ahead as it continues to strengthen its financial systems and improve public service delivery.

The award serves as a testament to Aguinaldo’s dedication to responsible governance and prudent management of public resources, demonstrating that transparency and accountability remain at the heart of local government service.