The Commission on Audit (COA) Basilan formally concluded its audit of the Local Government Unit of Isabela City for FY 2026 through an Exit Conference held on May 14, highlighting the city government’s strong performance in fiscal management, disaster preparedness, and infrastructure implementation.
The conference was led by COA Basilan OIC Supervising Auditor and concurrent Audit Team Leader Joel Ramos and attended by Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman together with Acting City Budget Officer and PESO Manager Aradelria Belleng, department heads, office representatives, and key officials of the LGU.
Among those present were City Administrator Pedrito Eisma, City Information Officer and GAD Focal Mendry-Ann Lim, CPMDO/CNAO Jesielyn Puno, Acting City Civil Registrar Nelsa Yahcob, CHRMO Rosella Luna, City Assessor Vido Yu, Acting City Accountant Jaber Tiplani, Acting City Treasurer Arien Claire Flores, as well as representatives from the City General Services Office, City Engineering Office, City Planning and Development Office, and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
During the conference, COA presented its audit observations, findings, and recommendations prior to the issuance of the final audit report. The Exit Conference also served as a venue for clarification of audit matters and submission of supporting documents to ensure accurate and transparent reporting.
One of the notable highlights of the audit was COA’s confirmation that there were no ghost infrastructure projects in Isabela City based on its monitoring and validation of implemented projects. This finding underscored the city government’s commitment to transparency and proper implementation of public infrastructure programs.
COA likewise commended the city’s Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Investment Plan, recognizing the city’s continued efforts in strengthening disaster preparedness, response mechanisms, and resiliency programs for communities.
Further reflecting the city government’s commitment to accountability and continuous improvement, LGU Isabela City also recorded a 64 percent compliance rate on prior years’ audit recommendations — significantly higher than the 33 percent passing benchmark under COA standards. The result highlighted the city’s active efforts in addressing previous audit observations and strengthening internal systems and financial management practices.
Mayor Turabin-Hataman welcomed the positive findings and expressed optimism that the city government would eventually attain an “unqualified opinion,” the highest audit rating given by COA.
“Masaya ako pag naabot natin ang ‘unqualified,’ at least alam ko sa panahon ko ito nagsimula,” the mayor said, emphasizing her administration’s commitment to institutionalizing accountability, transparency, and sound financial management beyond her term in office.
The City Government of Isabela reaffirmed its full cooperation with oversight agencies and its continued dedication to efficient, transparent, and people-centered public service. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
