Question & AnswerQ&A (DBM BUDGET CIRCULAR NO. 2003-6)
The Circular aims to rationalize and standardize the per diems of members of collegial bodies covered by or following RA No. 6758 (Salary Standardization Law) and members of the Board of Regents/Trustees of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).
All members of collegial bodies covered by or following RA No. 6758 or the Salary Standardization Law and members of the Board of Regents/Trustees of SUCs are covered by the per diems authorized in this Circular.
Department Secretaries, Department Undersecretaries, and Department Assistant Secretaries occupying ex-officio positions in collegial bodies, and members of collegial bodies who are regularly appointed thereto and receive salaries and other compensation for such positions are exempted.
A Collegial Body is a government entity composed of public and private sector members, the number and tenure of office of whom are determined by law, and who are appointed by the President either on full-time, part-time, or ex-officio basis.
Per Diem is the amount granted to the chairperson and members of collegial bodies created by law for every attendance in a board meeting where there is a quorum.
Chairpersons are entitled to per diems equivalent to 25% of the monthly RATA of the chief operating officer of the collegial body for each meeting attended, not exceeding four paid meetings per month. Members are entitled to 25% of the monthly RATA of the second ranking official under the same conditions.
Both chairpersons and members are entitled to per diems equivalent to 25% of the monthly RATA of the SUC Vice-President for every meeting attended, not exceeding four paid meetings per month.
No, higher per diem rates or additional benefits, whether commutable or reimbursable in cash or kind, are not allowed unless specifically authorized by law or Presidential issuance.
No, Board Secretaries who are already paid salaries for attending Board meetings are not entitled to the per diems authorized in this Circular.
For National Government Agencies and SUCs, the amount shall be charged against appropriations in the General Appropriations Act or savings. For Government-Owned and -Controlled Corporations and Government Financial Institutions, it shall be charged against their respective corporate funds.
The Chief Operating Officer of the collegial body and the President of the SUC concerned are responsible for improper payments and may require refunds of any excess payment.
All inconsistent rules, regulations, and previous authorizations are repealed and/or modified accordingly.
It took effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.
Such cases should be referred to the Secretary of Budget and Management for resolution.