QUEZON CITY -- The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has once again received the highest audit rating from the Commission on Audit (COA) for its 2022 annual audit report, signifying that the agency’s financial statements are presented in accordance with applicable financial reporting frameworks.

In its new report, the whole DA-BFAR has attained an “unqualified opinion”, a significant improvement from COA’s previous audit report in 2021 in which only the DA-BFAR Central Office was given the highest audit rating.

National Director Atty. Demosthenes R. Escoto said the state auditors’ rating reflects the DA-BFAR’s commitment to excellence and integrity in managing its financial assets. He also expressed his gratitude to the Bureau’s officials and employees for their hard work
and dedication to the effective utilization of the agency’s funds.

“The unqualified opinion by the COA is a testament to how the Bureau upholds excellence and integrity in managing its funds, in the fulfillment of our mandates and in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of providing effective and efficient services to Filipino fisherfolk to improve their lives and increase our fisheries production,” he said.

“It will inspire us to work tirelessly towards good governance, transparency, and accountability,” he added. Director Escoto also stressed that the DA-BFAR will continue to improve its quality management system and collaborate with stakeholders to address the needs of the fisheries sector.

The comprehensive audit of the DA-BFAR’s accounts, transactions, and operations for the fiscal year 2022 was conducted under the leadership of State Auditor Lea T. Petero.

In the report, COA said the audit presented by the DA-BFAR was “sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.” (DA-BFAR)