Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Monday urged government workers to “lead by example by fostering a culture of integrity.”

Pangandaman issued the call in commemoration of the International Anti-Corruption Day, which she described as a “strong reminder” for Filipinos of the shared responsibility to combat corruption and promote transparency, integrity and accountability.

“On this day, I encourage my fellow public servants to lead by example by fostering a culture of integrity. Upholding ethical standards sets a powerful example for colleagues and stakeholders alike,” Pangandaman said in a statement.

“As we unite in this fight, let us remember that our actions, no matter how small, can contribute to a larger movement toward achieving our Agenda for Prosperity.”

International Anti-Corruption Day has been observed annually on Dec. 9 since the passage of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in October 2003.

The UNCAC is the world’s only legally binding anti-corruption treaty and was ratified, accepted, approved, and acceded to by at least 180 countries worldwide, including the Philippines.

Pangandaman said corruption undermines the “very foundations of democracy and the rule of law.”

“It erodes public trust, stifles economic development, and perpetuates inequality and injustice. Thus, it is a call to action, especially for us in public service, to actively engage in efforts to prevent and combat it within our organizations,” she said.

Pangandaman noted that the DBM, under the Marcos administration, has achieved great strides toward stamping out corruption by embracing digitalization, pushing for open governance, and fostering public participation.

“With the passage of the New Government Procurement Act — the country’s biggest anti-corruption measure — we are streamlining processes, and digitalizing bidding and payment systems which altogether help reduce opportunities for corrupt practices,” she said. (PNA)