The Government Procurement Policy Board – Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO), led by Director General Rowena Candice M. Ruiz and the Department of Agriculture – Philippines (DA) collaborated to strengthen the Department’s procurement in support of its programs for food security and agricultural development.

During the consultation, DG Ruiz emphasized the importance of adopting a strategic, responsive, and forward-looking approach to procurement, anchored on the DA’s actual operational requirements and the outcomes it seeks to deliver. She highlighted the need for agencies to clearly identify their requirements, establish appropriate performance and quality standards, and ensure that procurement decisions contribute to value for money and effective public service delivery.

She also stressed the importance of ensuring that procurement planning remains responsive to the Department’s evolving needs. She encouraged the DA to consider its intended outputs and outcomes in defining procurement requirements and specifications, rather than relying on standard approaches that may not fully address its operational realities.

The discussion likewise highlighted the value of customization for niche requirements without unnecessarily limiting itself to the needs of future procurements.

The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of the GPPB-TSO and DA to strengthen procurement as a strategic enabler of government programs, particularly those aimed at improving agricultural productivity, supporting farmers and fisherfolk, and advancing food security.

Through continued technical collaboration, the GPPB-TSO and DA seek to promote efficient, responsive, and fit-for-purpose procurement practices that enable the Department to better deliver its programs and contribute to sustainable agricultural development and food security.

Also present in the meeting are Assistant Secretary Telma Tolentino, Deputy Director Wilfredo Ruin, Jean Caldino, Llorente Lilagan, Reyben Arga, Jobe-Ann Glabin-Sulit, Rogelio Labrador, Jr., Ma. Eliza Antinero, and Brian Presto, all from the DA.

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