The Department envisions that the effective and efficient pursuit of the critical tasks under its wings revenue generation, resource mobilization, debt management and financial market development shall provide the solid foundation for a Philippine economy that is one of the most active and dynamic in the world.

The fact that the birth of the Department of Finance predated that of the Philippine Republic is testimony to its importance. Founded on 24 April 1897 by the Philippine Revolutionary Government, the DOF has undergone various structural and functional overhauls, but has nonetheless remained a key department. At present, the critical tasks of revenue generation, resource mobilization and fiscal management rest on the shoulder of the Department of Finance.

The government must provide the citizenry with infrastructure, education, health and other basic services; and the DOF must be ready with the funds for them. Likewise, the DOF must steer fiscal programs toward an investment-friendly environment, which is the catalyst for growth.