On February 4, 2025, the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) approved the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), Republic Act No. 12009. This marks a significant milestone in our journey towards enhancing government procurement processes in the Philippines.

In her opening remarks, Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Chairperson of the GPPB, emphasized the collaborative efforts of the DBM, members of the GPPB, GPPB-TSO Technical Support Office, Procurement Service, and GPPB IRR Committees. She highlighted the principles guiding the development of the IRR of the NGPA: enhanced transparency, improved competitiveness, increased efficiency, proportionality, enhanced accountability, participatory procurement, sustainability, and professionalism. “Together, we are shaping a system that meets the highest standards of public service and accountability,” said Secretary Pangandaman.

The meeting was attended by Usec. Janet Abuel (DBM), Usec. Eric Ayapana (DPWH), Usec. Gavin Edjawan (DND), Usec. Peter-Irving Corvera (DepEd), Asec. Ester Aldana (DILG, via Zoom), ED Genmaries S. Entredicho-Caong (PS-DBM), and Dr. Fiorello Estuar (Private Sector Representative, via Zoom). The discussions were productive and focused on the extensive consultations and collaborative refinements made to the draft IRR.

The approval of these regulations is a testament to our shared commitment to building and enacting effective procurement reforms. The IRR includes several key features aimed at improving transparency in government procurement, such as open government/open data initiatives, video recording of all procurement-related conferences, and measures to ensure beneficial ownership transparency. These measures will significantly enhance the transparency of procurement processes, making it easier for the public to access information and hold the government accountable.

Thank you to all the members of the GPPB for your dedication and invaluable support. Together, we are contributing to a more effective procurement framework for our nation. Maraming salamat po, and may we continue to work towards a transparent, competitive, and efficient procurement system!