In accordance with Section 11 of the Government Procurement Reform Act (GPRA) or Republic Act No. 9184, which mandates that agencies establish either a single Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) or multiple BACs based on the number and complexity of projects to be procured, as well as a procurement unit to support the BAC, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) issued National Budget Circular No. 2015-558. This circular provides guidelines for strengthening the organizational structure and staffing of Procurement Units within agencies. Section 16 of the GPRA only requires that designated members of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), Technical Working Group (TWG), Procurement Units (PUs), and other procurement stakeholders, including the Head of the Procuring Entity, should have satisfactorily completed training or capacity development program conducted, authorized or accredited by the Government Procurement Policy Board, through its Technical Support Office.
While attending training sessions and capacity development programs is essential, it is insufficient on its own to address the multifaceted challenges in government procurement. A comprehensive approach that includes clear role definitions, standardized procedures, robust accountability mechanisms, and continuous professional development is necessary to ensure effective and efficient procurement processes. Thus, the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), or Republic Act No. 12009, introduces a key provision for the professionalization of government procurement practitioners to uphold high standards of performance essential for improving the public procurement process and maximizing the benefits of public spending. By promoting procurement professionalization, it ensures that procurement activities are conducted by qualified, well-equipped, and competent professionals who can effectively manage the complexities of procurement processes. This professionalization enhances efficiency in handling procurement tasks, minimizes legal risks, ensures adherence to applicable laws and regulations, and promotes improved service delivery.
Accordingly, Section 46 of the NGPA mandates the DBM to create procurement positions in the government based on the qualification standards recommended by the GPPB and approved by the Civil Service Commission to build a cadre of public procurement professionals in the Philippine government.
Procurement professionalization contributes to a more effective and efficient procurement system, ultimately benefiting public service delivery and the proper use of public funds.
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