On 15 October 2024, GPCCI held its Policy and Advocacy Committee (PAC) meeting on the opportunities brought by the newly signed New Government Procurement Act (NGPA). This meeting brought together members of the business community and other key sectors to explore the Act’s potential for fostering public-private partnerships, improving procurement transparency, and promoting sustainable practices.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Yves Aguilos, GPCCI's Head of Government Affairs and Data Protection Officer, welcomed the participants and emphasized the significance of the NGPA in modernizing the Philippines’ 21-year-old procurement framework.
The event’s keynote speaker, Atty. Rowena Candice Ruiz, Executive Director of the Government Procurement Policy Board – Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO), delivered an insightful presentation on the NGPA’s impact. She discussed the key changes in the law, such as improved bidding processes, increased transparency, and the inclusion of more stringent qualifications for public contracts. Atty. Ruiz also tackled how the NGPA aligns with international procurement standards, creating new opportunities for foreign investors, including those from Germany, to engage in Philippine government projects. Additionally, the streamlined processes established by the government to supplement the NGPA, such as the GPPB Procurement Observers Portal, were also highlighted.
Atty. Ruiz’s presentation sparked an engaging Q&A session, where attendees inquired about the Act’s mechanisms to enhance accountability and reduce corruption risks, as well as its implications on the business sector. Participants also sought clarity on how the new law benefits startups and small enterprises. In response, Atty. Ruiz emphasized the importance of the private sector’s role in driving innovation and supporting the government’s efforts toward more efficient procurement systems.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration between the government and the private sector.
