ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) Region 9 has intensified its efforts to promote financial literacy across the Zamboanga Peninsula, focusing on empowering local communities, government agencies, cooperatives, and students with essential financial management skills.
Wilfredo Melicor, Chief Treasury Operations Officer in Zamboanga City, emphasized the vital role of the Bureau in managing the country’s financial resources and fostering financial education.
We are the fund managers of the government. One of our goals is to effectively and efficiently manage the financial resources of the Philippine government while maximizing resources and minimizing costs,” he explained.
The Bureau’s accomplishments in 2023 underscore its commitment to digitalization and inclusivity. According to Melicor, the issuance of Retail Treasury Bonds (RTBs) has been particularly successful, raising significant funds to support government programs. During the RTB 29 offering, the Bureau raised ₱162.8 billion out of a ₱196 billion target.
The overwhelming response from both local and overseas Filipinos demonstrates the growing trust in government securities,” he noted.
The Bureau’s financial literacy campaign has also expanded its reach, targeting students, cooperatives, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Melicor stressed the importance of early education in money management, saying, “while they are still young, students must understand the value of financial management and investing. Even with small amounts, they can begin to secure their future.”
To further strengthen its initiatives, the Bureau has partnered with key agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and financial institutions. Looking ahead to 2025, the BTr plans to roll out new initiatives, including the RTB 30 offering in the first quarter, which will continue advocating for smart investment practices among Filipinos. Melicor also addressed the impact of inflation on the region, urging the public to adopt practical financial habits, especially during the holiday season.
“In times of rising costs, it’s crucial to save, budget wisely, and invest in legitimate opportunities. The holidays should focus on meaningful gestures, not excessive spending,” Melicor advised. (JPA/MLE/PIA Region 9-Zamboanga City)
