South Cotabato, Philippines — In honoring the significant contributions of taxpayers, Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. reminded the public that development projects are funded from the ‘Buwis ng Bayan.’
These government programs, projects, and initiatives should not be credited to any particular individual, as they are funded by the collective contributions of taxpayers.
“Palagi kong sinasabi na hindi dapat inaangkin ng partikular na indibidwal ang mga proyekto na yung pondo ay galing naman talaga sa buwis ng bayan,” Governor Tamayo stated.
Coming from a government official who has long been a public servant, Governor Tamayo shared that transparency regarding the use of public funds has always been his priority, even during his term as municipal mayor of Tupi.
“Kaya nga meron tayong nilalagay na tarpaulin sa bawat proyekto, reminding people that ‘This is where your taxes go,’” he emphasized.
Governor Tamayo explained that every government project undergoes a thorough and careful process before receiving budget approval from the Provincial Development Council (PDC), a due protocol to ensure accountability.
“Merong pinalabas ang pangulo natin na veto process, na dapat lahat ng projects ay dadaan sa Provincial Development Council for approval,” he elaborated. “Ibig sabihin, dumadaan doon sa in-charge ng council ang development ng isang community.”
Governor Tamayo also expressed dismay over individuals who claim credit for government-funded projects, as these initiatives are from the collective efforts of people contributing their taxes.
“Kaya nakaka-insulto yung mga umaangkin ng developmental projects na hindi naman talaga sa kanila, kundi nanggaling sa buwis ng taumbayan,” he said.
Thus, Governor Tamayo encourages public officials to give credit where it is due and to focus on ensuring that public funds are used efficiently for the benefit of the community.
By maintaining transparency and adhering to due process, South Cotabato can cultivate a culture of accountability and trust in government projects, so that people will recognize that the great contributors to developments are the taxpayers themselves.
