DepEd ensures equal opportunities, transparency in procurement processes

The Department of Education (DepEd) pledged to provide equal opportunities for suppliers and contractors by enforcing stringent transparency and accountability measures in all procurement and bidding processes.

Pursuant to DepEd Memorandum No. 61, series of 2024, which instructed all departments and schools to uphold transparency, competitiveness, and accountability in accordance with the Government Procurement Reform Act, the mandate will be applied nationwide.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the agency’s stance on impartial procurement practices that ensure the services and products for schools, wherein every supplier and contractor will be given an equal chance to participate.

Due to recent scrutiny of past procurement activities flagged by the Commission on Audit (COA) for irregularities, which prompted DepEd to establish a renewed commitment to fair competition and stringent oversight in awarding contracts.

By transparency and accountability, DepEd further detailed that any misconduct, including unfair practices and favoritism, would face zero tolerance within the department.

To reinforce these measures, DepEd has launched a reporting platform walangkorapsyon@deped.gov.ph wherein the public was urged to report any suspicious procurement processes such as information related to possible illegal or corrupt activities.

“This portal ensures that any information received about potential corruption will be treated with the utmost confidentiality, encouraging transparency in all aspects of our operations,” DepEd noted in its memorandum.

DepEd encouraged whistleblowers to approach law enforcement agencies like the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) if they suspect any criminal activities in the procurement process.

According to DepEd, these actions are part of a broader mission to instill public trust and set a precedent for ethical governance in education.

These efforts reflect DepEd’s determination to ensure equal bidding opportunities, enhance the quality of educational resources, and foster a corruption-free environment in Philippine education.