The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has earned an unmodified audit opinion from the Commission on Audit (CoA) for the fourth consecutive year, officials said.

The rating, often called a "clean opinion," is the highest level of approval independent state auditors award a government agency. It signifies that an agency has fairly presented its financial statements and adhered to government accounting standards.

The distinction covers the bureau’s consolidated annual audit report, which includes the financial operations of its central office and all 16 regional field offices nationwide. For BFAR, the approval affirms that its spending is transparent and its financial reports are free from material misstatements.

"We thank the Commission on Audit for recognizing the bureau’s efforts to utilize public funds in an honest and transparent manner," BFAR director Elizer Salilig said.

"This achievement honors the hard work of our personnel in the central office and across the region to uphold the highest standards of public service," he added.

The bureau has maintained a clean financial record since 2021. Salilig attributed the milestone to the dedication of the agency's employees.

He also disclosed that the bureau remains committed to sustainable fisheries management, aquaculture development, and livelihood support for fishing communities, while ensuring public funds directly benefit the sector.