The Sworn Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) is a crucial document that every public official and employee in the Philippines is required to file annually, as mandated by Republic Act No. 6713, also known as the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.” This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about SALN 2024, its importance, and the step-by-step process of completing and filing it. You can also find a downloadable template of the form at the end of this article.
What is SALN?
The SALN is a declaration of a public servant’s assets, liabilities, and net worth, along with their business interests, financial connections, and relatives in government service. It serves as a transparency and accountability measure to ensure that public officials uphold ethical standards and prevent graft and corruption.
Who Needs to File the SALN?
Public officials and employees, whether regular, contractual, or casual, are required to file their SALN. This includes:
Government officials and employees from national and local levels.
Officials of government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs).
Military personnel.
However, certain individuals may be exempt, such as those in honorary positions, unless specified by law.
Key Components of SALN 2024
The SALN form consists of several sections that need careful attention:
1. Personal Information
This includes the declarant’s name, position, agency/office, and address. Married officials must also include their spouse’s details, while unmarried children below 18 years old living in the household should be listed with their dates of birth and ages.
2. Assets
Assets are divided into two categories:
Real Properties: Include land, houses, condominiums, and improvements, specifying the kind, location, assessed value, fair market value, and acquisition details (year and mode).
Personal Properties: Include vehicles, jewelry, furniture, and other personal assets acquired, along with their cost or value.
3. Liabilities
Declare outstanding balances of debts or obligations, specifying the nature of the liability and the name of the creditor.
4. Net Worth
Net worth is computed as the total assets minus the total liabilities. This figure represents the financial standing of the declarant and their family as of December 31, 2024.
5. Business Interests and Financial Connections
Any active or passive business interests or financial connections must be disclosed, including those of the declarant, spouse, and unmarried children below 18 years old.
6. Relatives in Government Service
List relatives within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity (e.g., siblings, cousins, in-laws) who are also in government service, including their positions and office addresses.
Steps to File Your SALN
Download the Official Form Access the official SALN form from your agency’s website or download it here.
Fill Out the Form Completely Provide accurate and up-to-date information. Use additional sheets if necessary, especially for detailed declarations.
Sign and Notarize Once completed, affix your signature and have the document notarized. This step ensures the authenticity and legality of the declaration.
Submit the SALN Submit your notarized SALN to your designated personnel officer or agency head on or before the deadline. Ensure that you receive an acknowledgment receipt.
Deadlines and Penalties
The SALN must be filed on or before April 30, 2025. Failure to file or submitting false information may lead to administrative or criminal charges, including dismissal from service or fines.
FAQs
1. Can married public officials file separately? Yes, married officials can choose to file jointly or separately, depending on their preference.
2. What if I have no assets or liabilities to declare? You must still file the SALN and indicate “None” in the respective sections.
3. Do I need to declare gifts received during the year? Yes, if the value of the gifts is significant and they are still in your possession by year-end, they should be included as part of your assets.
Download the SALN 2024 Form
To ensure compliance, download the official SALN 2024 form by clicking here.
Final Reminders
Completing your SALN accurately and truthfully is not just a legal obligation but a demonstration of integrity and accountability. Make sure to keep copies of your SALN and supporting documents for future reference or audits.
For further assistance, contact your Human Resources office or the Civil Service Commission.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always refer to the official guidelines and consult a legal expert if necessary.