Turnover ceremonies organized in nine barangays

In fulfilment of DILG Memorandum Circular 2013-115, “Inventory and Turnover of Barangay Financial Records and Properties,” nine barangays in Tacurong City have undergone turnover ceremonies to ensure smooth transition of administration from 2 December to 4 December, 2013.

Brgy. New Passi, Brgy. Baras, Brgy. Calean, Brgy. New Carmen, Brgy. San Emmanuel, Brgy. San Pablo, Brgy. San Rafael, Brgy. D Ledesma, and Brgy. Poblacion were the primary subjects of the said ceremony for these are the barangays with newly elected chairs and several kagawads.

The outgoing Punong Barangay, Barangay Kagawad, Barangay Secretary, Barangay Treasurer, and bookkeeper/representative from the city government were tasked to conduct or update the inventory of all properties, finances, and documents of the barangay beginning 1 October, 2013 until 15 November, 2013. They also see to it that all financial records and transactions are intact and all officials in actual possession of, or entrusted with, the custody or control or supplies or property are held accountable for such. All documents were assembled such as but not limited to the following: legislative records, administrative records, and supplies and transcripts of lupon meetings and cases, registry of barangay inhabitants and list of members of barangay assembly. They made use of the prescribed forms in the turnover of responsibilities; organized a turnover ceremony to include briefing on the State of Barangay Governance, Financial Performance and Key Challenges to the incoming set of officials; and ensured that all outgoing barangay officials secure clearance from the Barangay Treasurer. The Barangay Treasurer who is applying for property clearance shall secure such clearance from the Punong Barangay.

The handing over of the financial records, legislative records, barangay properties, barangay administrative records, and lupon settlement records were assisted by the respective secretary and treasurer of each barangay and witnessed by Elma Bides, CPA (City Accountant), Tomas R. Robles, MBA (City General Services Officer) represented by Vicente Subaldo (Supply Officer III) in some barangays, Alberto P. Sero, Jr. (City Local Government Operations Officer), city staff, barangay officials, and employees.

During the briefing of the state of barangay governance and key challenges, Mr. Sero put emphasis on the value of having a turnover ceremony for it signals the actual transfer of all necessary documents and equipment, and would also put clarity and organization for the next administration. He also commended each barangay’s achievements and noted suggestions that would further improve the status of the community.

Both the City Accountant and City General Services Officer provided updates and reminders for all barangay leaders regarding financial performance and property and equipment management performance respectively.

The said activity also paved way for barangay officials to raise questions and elucidate some information related to better their own barangays. (Ariesha Faith M. Dimaano)