A legacy of thriving

Looking back on my seven years of service in the Commission on Audit (COA), I can say with conviction that I gave my all. I did all I could for the commission and its betterment. From the integrity pledging sessions visiting all regions, to the Covid-19 webinars, to explaining project reporting of onfrastructure schedule monitoring system (PRISM) and other relevant COA programs to our auditors, to visiting universities to explain COA's relevance, and to the many policies in between that have made COA more efficient and effective—in these seven years, I was privileged to work alongside those with unwavering commitment and dedication. Together, we not only fulfilled our responsibilities but strived to build a legacy worth remembering. 

I take immense pride in all public servants who consistently go above and beyond in their dedication to this nation, particularly those who hold their values and principles above all else. Among these values, I wish to emphasize the importance of delicadeza—a profound sense of responsibility and honor we, as public servants, must uphold. To act with delicadeza is to choose the higher path, even when the lower one is more convenient. To have the decency to do the right thing in the face of temptation, even when no one is watching, and doing so with a heart committed to public service. We, public servants, must acknowledge that every decision we make, no matter how small, no matter how insignificant it may seem, will affect the lives of many. Which is why we must never lose sight of our duty—not just to the government or the office/position we hold, but to the people who place their trust in us.

We are public servants. That title, that sacred responsibility, should never be taken lightly. It is not a position to seek praise or recognition, nor should it ever be about personal gain. Public service—true service—demands the highest standard of integrity and excellence.

Throughout my time in COA, I made it my mission to live by these ideals, ensuring our efforts transcended mere compliance, extending to excellence lined with values. I sought to make our work not only a reflection of these values but also a symbol of respect, fairness, and ethical responsibility. I poured my heart and soul into that institution, and though I have retired, I do so without a heavy heart, for I know the work we did was worth it.

In this regard, one crucial lesson I’ve learned is that no one is indispensable in government service. The work of COA, and of any government agency, is not about the individual—it is about the collective, looking at the bigger picture. It is about the institution's mission and the continuous pursuit of its purpose. Our time in office, while significant, is but a moment in the institution’s long history. When our tenure ends, the work must continue, building on what we have left. Thus, we must give our utmost best while we have the privilege of serving, for it is in these moments that we add to the lasting story and legacy of COA that will continue long after we are gone.

For the value of our work lies not in how long we hold a position but in how well we serve in it. This is a constant reminder that we must not short-change the government—whether by neglecting our duties or not giving our full commitment—for it undermines the very foundation of public trust. When we accept compensation from the government, it is not for the mere “hours worked,” but for the integrity we carry, the wisdom we bring to our decisions, and the tireless dedication and hard work we invest in fulfilling, to the best of our ability, the immense responsibilities entrusted to us.

All of us will sooner or later retire from service, but before taking your final steps in your respective roles, make it a mission to prepare the younger generations in your offices to continue to shape the destiny of your institutions in these times of uncertainty and transformation.

When I said goodbye to COA, it simply means see you around, as I am entrusting to my former colleagues the sacred duty to continue the work, to carry the mantle of integrity and honor, and to uphold the dignity of public service. To build a Legacy of Thriving.

(Roland Café Pondoc is the current PICPA National President and former COA Commissioner)