Manila: The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has received an 'unmodified opinion' for the fourth straight year from the Commission on Audit (COA).

According to Philippines News Agency, the NPC stated that the unmodified opinion, also referred to as an 'unqualified opinion,' is granted when a COA auditor determines that financial statements are 'prepared, in all material respects, by the applicable financial reporting framework.'

The statement highlighted this achievement as a reflection of the NPC's continuous dedication to accountability, transparency, and sound financial management in its mission to protect every Filipino's right to data privacy. The privacy body has maintained this streak since 2022, following the appointment of NPC Commissioner and Chairman John Henry Naga as deputy commissioner.

COA's website explains that an auditor's evaluation involves analyzing both quantitative and qualitative materials based on audit guidelines. It clarifies that an unmodified opinion does not necessarily indicate the absence of misstatements during the audit or uncorrected misstatements at year-end.

The website further notes that an unmodified opinion may also be issued if misstatements discovered during the audit were corrected or if uncorrected statements are considered immaterial, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Additionally, it emphasizes that such an opinion does not guarantee that the audited agency fully adheres to all laws, rules, and regulations, nor does it assure that the agency's fund usage in programs, projects, and activities is economical, effective, or efficient.