Summary

SAI Philippines conducted a performance audit of the SALINTUBIG Program,* which aims to expand access to clean water and improve water resource management skills. The audit aimed to assess the achievement of the Program's objectives, the compliance of is implementers' responsibilities with guidelines, and the effectiveness of the Program's monitoring and evaluation mechanism. The audit involved citizens, as well as key stakeholders, including local government officials, community groups, and Program beneficiaries. SAI concluded that the Program significantly improved access to drinking water and reduced the number of areas without water supply. However, the auditors noted a number of challenges affecting its effectiveness in ensuring full and sustainable water supply to target groups. To improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of water supply and sanitation projects, SAI recommended that the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Local Government, in coordination with relevant agencies, take the following steps: - strengthen the definition of target groups in the Program and beneficiary priorities; - improve the Program's coordination with all ongoing water supply programs and projects; - enhance the sustainability of water supply systems; - implement monitoring and evaluation based on audit findings. * Program was launched in 2012 by the Philippines Ministry of Internal Affairs and Local Government. Its activities are implemented through grants aimed at equipping municipalities without access to water with sustainable water supply systems, expanding water service coverage, and reducing the incidence of waterborne diseases.