TACLOBAN CITY — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law the New Government Procurement Act on Saturday, July 20, marking a significant move towards enhancing the integrity and efficiency of government operations.
The version of the House of Representatives of the legislation was principally authored by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, committee on accounts chairperson Rep. Yedda Romualdez, committee on overseas workers affairs chairperson Rep. Jude Acidre, and senior deputy majority leader Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos.
The bill received final approval from the chamber in November 2023.
The New Government Procurement Act, also known as Republic Act 12009, aims to modernize, standardize, and streamline the procurement process across government agencies to prevent graft and corruption.
“RA 12009 is important because it promotes transparency and accountability among government offices. At Tingog party-list, we stand firmly behind these reforms, knowing they will ensure that every peso of taxpayer money is spent wisely and for the benefit of our people,” said Rep. Acidre, who witnessed the ceremonial signing at Malacañang Palace.
“Tingog party-list remains committed to advocating for policies that promote good governance and uphold the highest standards of public service,” Acidre added.
Key provisions of the Government Procurement Reform Act include: most economically advantageous and responsive bid: This provision identifies the bid that offers the best overall value, emphasizing not just the price but also sustainability and social impacts; most advantageous and responsive bid: This focuses on bids that not only meet all specified requirements and conditions (responsiveness) but also offer the best overall value considering both cost and other criteria (advantageous); sustainable procurement, promotes environmentally friendly practices to lessen the impact on the environment.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
