Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, in his message during a metting with the heads of the Constitutional Fiscal Autonomy Group (CFAG) on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, underscored the importance of defending fiscal autonomy “not solely for the sake of our institution, but for the sake of our people as well, for from it is expected not only institutional independence, but also greater efficiency in public service. With fiscal autonomy, we should find no excuse for inadequacy, delay, inefficiency and inaction.”
Chief Justice Gesmundo also stressed that fiscal autonomy is not simply a matter of empowering CFAG with “full management and control of our financial affairs.” He added that it also gives CFAG the responsibility of responding promptly and effectively to specific needs and challenges in its own institutions.
“We cannot exempt ourselves from greater transparency and accountability in the management of our finances,” added the Chief Justice. Aside from the Supreme Court, the other members of CFAG are the Commission on Human Rights, the Commission on Audit, the Commission on Elections, the Civil Service Commission, and the Office of the Ombudsman. (Courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office)