Integrity pledge forged between Baguio LGU and PEZA

The shared vision of sustainable economic growth and development was the premier purpose of an integrity pledge signed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Officer-in-Charge Tereso Panga last March 3.          

Upholding said signed agreement “is essential for gaining the trust and confidence from the general public” and that other agencies should also be invited to join the advocacy for good governance, the entities acknowledged.           

The mayor and Panga representing the local government of Baguio and the PEZA respectively, “recognize the importance of maintaining high ethical standards and upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, honesty and purity of intentions” in all their dealings.      

Thus, all interactions between LGU Baguio and PEZA should be done in accordance with the law, with a guiding employees’ code of conduct for ethical behavior, and sanctions for violation. Business dealings with parties who demonstrated questionable practices should never be entertained, it was also stated.   

Confidential information of each entity and stakeholders should be protected and used only for the purpose for which it was intended.

Conflicts that may compromise objectivity should be avoided, yet when needed must be reported to the appropriate authorities, the agreement stated.

Charitable, political and business contributions, gifts, and sponsorships should be transparent and not used as an attempt to influence the recipient; and same as accurate financial reporting.      

Personal accountability and responsibility for actions should be taken for any error or lapses in judgment; and a regular review and evaluation for compliance to the integrity pledge should be done, the agreement emphasized. – JGFianza