New procurement law boosts anti-corruption bid – DBM chief

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Billed as the biggest anti-corruption measure of the Marcos administration, the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of a new law reforming government procurement have been officially approved.

Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman announced this yesterday, saying the New Government Procurement Act (RA12009) aimed at streamlining public procurement, is “one of the governance aspects most prone to corruption, not just in the Philippines but across the globe.”

Pangandaman said that a World Bank report even states that better procurement strategies and policies could save 26 to 29 percent of a government’s total procurement spending. 

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“I am honored to share that the NGPA signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in July 2024 is now hailed as the biggest anti-corruption measure in the country’s recent history.” 

The DBM Secretary made the remarks on the sidelines of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting 2025 hosted by the country that runs February 5-7, 2025.

Pangandaman said the approval of the IRR was held February 4, 2025 in a meeting led by the Government Procurement Policy Board – Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO). 

Yesterday, Pangandaman spoke before the Makati Business Club (MBC), Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), and other leaders and members of the business community.

Pangandaman said the Procurement Board carried out extensive consultations and collaborative refinements before the IRR was formalized.

The NGPA seeks to put an end to side deals, under-the-table agreements, uncompetitive behavior, and other criminal acts and corrupt practices, the DBM said.

Pangandaman meanwhile highlighted the importance of partnership and collaboration with all sectors of society to realize the open government agenda during the event. 

Pangandaman said that by fostering dialogue between the government and the private sector on budget transparency, open governance, and policy reforms, “you not only support our cause: you are our partners in our Agenda for Prosperity.” 

“Now, more than ever, we understand that true leadership is not defined by the position you hold but by your ability to empower people toward a shared goal of collaboration and good governance,” she said. 

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