The Department of Education (DepEd) came under fire during a recent House budget hearing over alleged irregularities in its procurement process for laptops under the DepEd Computerization Program.
Representative Jil Bongalon raised concerns about the bidding process for an approximately ₱8 billion project in 2022 for laptops, TVs, and charging batteries. Out of 16 lots put up for bidding, only two passed with a single bidder each
The lawmaker revealed that during the initial bidding, there was a 24% variance in the bids, potentially saving the government ₱1.6 billion. However, after a rebidding process, the variance dropped to just 1%.
Bongalon questioned why previously disqualified bidders were allowed to participate in the rebidding and subsequently qualified. He suggested this could indicate a “rigged bidding” process.
Related: Senate Concludes DepEd Laptops Overpriced by PHP 979 Million and More
The hearing also brought to light changes in key personnel involved in the procurement:
- The original head of the procuring entity was reportedly Usec. Glo Mercado, later replaced by Usec. Michael Poa.
- Asec. Bringas was identified as the Bids and Awards Committee chairman during both bidding rounds
Concerns were raised about Usec. Poa’s appointment, as he also serves as Chief of Staff to Vice President Sara Duterte, who was DepEd Secretary at the time.
Related: DepEd Allegedly Procured an Overpriced Entry-level Camera
In response to these allegations, the House committee moved to issue a subpoena for all relevant bidding documents from 2022 to 2024. They also recommended initiating a separate investigation into the matter.
The DepEd representatives present at the hearing struggled to provide immediate answers to many of the questions posed, prompting frustration from lawmakers.
This controversy highlights ongoing issues with procurement processes in government agencies and raises questions about transparency and efficiency in the use of public funds for education.
DepEd’s Transparency records may be publicly viewed on this link.
Source: Gadget Pilipinas
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