Mrs Michele Phillips, Macro Fiscal Coordinator in the Ministry of Finance (left), accepted the Regional Debt Management Office Award for the Caribbean on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands. Photo: The Commonwealth

The Commonwealth Public Debt Management Forum was held in London from March 23 to 27, 2026. Photo: The Commonwealth

The awards, hosted by the Commonwealth Secretariat, took place during the week-long Commonwealth Public Debt Management Forum, March 23 to 27, 2026.

A government press release on April 29, 2026, described the awards as a significant milestone in celebrating excellence, innovation, and sound debt management practices across the Commonwealth’s 56 member countries.

VI among C’bean’s standout performers

The Caribbean region emerged as a standout performer, demonstrating leadership in addressing debt vulnerabilities and climate-related financial challenges.

The honour acknowledges the VI’s continued progress in building a modern, resilient debt management framework capable of navigating increasingly complex global financial environments.

Mrs Michele Phillips, Macro Fiscal Coordinator in the Ministry of Finance, accepted the award on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands. She said, “This recognition is a testament to the Government of the Virgin Islands’ disciplined approach to public financial management and our commitment to continuous improvement.”

The award is also a reflection of the VI’s strong institutional capacity, commitment to transparency, and alignment with international best practices; it therefore positions the VI alongside regional leaders and highlights its ongoing efforts to strengthen fiscal sustainability.

Financial Secretary, Mr Jeremiah G.A. Frett, said, “We remain focused on strengthening our institutional capacity and leveraging innovative tools to ensure long-term economic stability for our people.”