23 July 2026
Officials and staff of Benguet State University’s Bokod, Buguias, and La Trinidad campuses gathered at Solibao Hall, NPRCRTC Building for the first day of their Budget and Operational Planning Workshop. Organized by the Office of the VP for Administration and Finance (OVPAF), the activity aims to align the University’s Fiscal Year 2027 operational priorities with its budget through an integrated planning and budgeting approach.
In his opening remarks, University President Kenneth A. Laruan emphasized that the workshop ensures budget allocations reflect the sectors’ plans, priorities, and resources in line with BSU’s strategic goals and mandate.
“As we prepare our budget and operational plans, let us be guided by accountability, efficiency, and shared commitment to deliver quality service,” he said, reminding the different sectors to prioritize their 2027 budget allocations. He also encouraged everyone to prioritize digitalization, automation of all processes, and smart classrooms for the academic sector.
Following the message, Thea D. Amaki of the Planning Unit presented the University’s 2025 and January–June 2026 accomplishment reports.
Supervising Administrative Officer (SAO) Estrellita M. Daclan of the Budget Office then discussed the Budget Utilization Status for various fund clusters. She outlined key management priorities for July–December 2026, which include: accelerating procurement and project implementation; fast-tracking the obligation of Capital Outlay and Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses funds; strengthening monitoring for Internally Generated Fund, Business-Related Fund and Trust Receipt Projects; ensuring the timely utilization of externally funded projects; and conducting quarterly performance reviews to assess financial utilization alongside operational performance.
General Services Office Director Sheriff John La Madrid presented the repair and maintenance schedule for July–December 2026, while Project Management Unit Head Hazeline N. Tibangay detailed plans for the implementation of repairs and maintenance for FY 2027.
For human resources, SAO Raymundo H. Pawid Jr. presented the University’s staffing status and plan, highlighting filled and unfilled positions for teaching and non-teaching personnel.
VP for Administration and Finance Richard H. Kinnud also reported on austerity and cost-cutting measures concerning electricity, water, and fuel consumption, as well as expenses for meals, snacks, and tokens.
After each presentation, comments and inquiries were accommodated.
In addition, SAO Daclan presented the budget ceilings for the different sectors and the Bokod and Buguias campuses. Workshop sessions followed for academics, research and extension, business affairs, and Office of the President and administration and finance, and presentation of outputs.
The workshop will continue on July 24, 2026.//EBawayan
