PH TO HOST INT’L PUBLIC PROCUREMENT SUMMIT; TO HIGHLIGHT IMPORTANCE OF PROCUREMENT REFORMS IN ADVANCING DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

April 26, 2025 Community Billboard

The Philippines is set to host the East Asia and the Pacific International Public Procurement Conference, with no less than President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. leading the opening ceremony in Manila. The three-day event, happening from April 28 to 30, 2025, will bring together experts and practitioners from the East Asia and the Pacific region and beyond to address critical challenges and share
transformative solutions on public procurement.

“Procurement is a major activity in government which is crucial for ensuring efficient and effective service delivery to our citizens. And with the implementation of the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), signed into law by President Bongbong Marcos last year, we have introduced a progressive measure that promotes greater efficiency in the implementation of projects and purchase of goods and supplies,” Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary and Government Procurement Policy Board Chairperson Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman said.

“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. With that, we are excited to present the key accomplishments and milestones of the country in terms of public procurement during this landmark event,” the Budget Secretary added. The event is co-organized by the DBM, GPPB-Technical
Support Office (GPPB-TSO), and the World Bank, with support from other development partners. With the theme, “Procurement for the People: Bridging Innovation, Value for Money, and Accountability,” the activities will involve plenary sessions, interactive panels, and country case studies.

It will cover crucial topics, such as how procurement mechanisms empower communities, examining strategic investments aligned with generational and societal priorities, professionalizing procurement, sustainable spending, fighting climate change through smart spending, transforming procurement through inclusion, and enhancing participatory governance, among others. At least 150 participants
are expected to take part in the international conference, composed of procuring authority heads and representatives from 15 countries.

The International Public Procurement Conference is seen to inspire transformative change and reinforce procurement’s role in
addressing societal challenges. With a diverse lineup of experts, innovative topics, and spirit of collaboration among participants, the conference will help shape the future of procurement in the East Asia and Pacific region and beyond.