By Julliane Nicole B. Labinghisa

Highlighting accountability, former Commissioner of the Commission on Audit (COA) Heidi Mendoza encouraged Tamaraws’ participation in changing the system during the Good Governance Forum at the Far Eastern University (FEU) Main Auditorium last February 12. 

The event aimed to deepen students’ understanding on ethical and effective governance and empower them to take actionable steps in their communities. 

In discussing good governance, Mendoza emphasized that governance does not begin in government offices, rather, it begins with the people. 

“It [good governance] refers to the responsible use of power and resources to benefit the people… ‘Yung makikinabang ‘yung mga tao (Where the people will really benefit),” she stated. 

Mendoza also discussed the key pillars of global governance, namely transparency, accountability, participation, and the rule of law.

“Good governance means doing what is right—fair, transparent, and accountable for the good of everyone,” the former COA commissioner shared. 

In addition, Mendoza highlighted that good governance matters as it builds public trust, ensures effective service delivery, protects public resources, and strengthens institutional reputation. 

Moreover, she stressed the importance of following rules and regulations regardless of rewards and incentives, even at the school level.

“There are rules and regulations that you have to follow, not because of simple compliance, but because you also want to become a good student. Not only a good student, but more so because you would like to be a good citizen… When we talk about practices that open up opportunities for corruption, most of them are rooted among practices in school,” Mendoza said.

The former commissioner also mentioned how good governance roots from public trust, which will then reflect the institution. 

“Public office is a public trust. This is, of course, contained in our constitution. Our daily work reflects the integrity of our institution. Every task is an opportunity to build trust,” she stated. 

This event was organized by the FEU Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance, and is the fourth iteration of the University's Good Governance Forum. 

(Photo by Nica Vargas/FEU Advocate)