PH to host int’l public procurement meet

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Philippines will host the East Asia and the Pacific International Public Procurement Conference on April 28-30, bringing together more than 150 procurement experts and officials from 15 countries in the region to tackle the pressing challenges and reforms in government spending and transparency.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to lead the opening ceremony in Manila, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Thursday.

Co-organized by the DBM, the Government Procurement Policy Board – Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO), and the World Bank, the conference aims to foster regional collaboration on procurement modernization.

It will feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, and case studies that promote accountability, inclusion, and sustainable public spending.

“Procurement is a major activity in government which is crucial for ensuring efficient and effective service delivery to our citizens,” DBM Secretary and GPPB Chairperson Amenah Pangandaman said.

She said the conference aims to showcase the Philippines’ progress under the landmark New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) and position the country as a regional leader in modern procurement policy.

“As I have emphasized, we regard the NGPA as the biggest anti-corruption law in modern times, fostering enhanced transparency, accountability, and value for money,” Pangandaman said.

“With that, we are excited to present the key accomplishments and milestones of the country in terms of public procurement during this landmark event.

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With the theme “Procurement for the People: Bridging Innovation, Value for Money, and Accountability,” the three-day event will explore how procurement practices can drive community empowerment, generational investments, and climate action.

Other topics are professionalizing the procurement systems and strengthening participatory governance.