“M&E should to be institutionalized in the public sector” – Pernia

MANILA – The National Economic and Development Authority gathered monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practitioners around the country to refine proposed guidelines on the official framework for evaluating government programs and projects.

Guidelines for the National Evaluation Policy Framework (NEPF) will spell out, among others, procedures, tools, and templates that managers in government may use in designing, commissioning, and assuring the quality of evaluations.

The NEPF was drafted and approved in 2015 through DBM Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2015-01.

“M&E are indispensable elements of effective, data-driven policy-making. The process should not be considered as an afterthought but should be institutionalized in the public sector management cycle,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said during his keynote speech at the Seventh M&E Network Forum at Crowne Plaza Galleria early last week.

He said not all government agencies have the capacity for M&E. Much focus is usually given to inputs and outputs but not on evidence regarding results, outcomes, and impact of government interventions through programs and projects.

Pernia added that clearer guidelines for the NEPF, however, will help the government effectively keep tabs on the country’s targets under the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022, which is geared towards the long-term vision, Ambisyon Natin 2040.

The NEPF Guidelines will be finalized and released early next year.

“Through the NEPF, the government recognizes the role of evidence in designing and implementing programs for greater impact on development. And clearer guidelines will oblige government agencies to establish their respective evaluation agenda and capable evaluation units,” Pernia said.

The Seventh M&E Network Forum was organized by NEDA with support from the United Nations Development Programme.