New procurement app streamlines government purchases

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is set to launch a new application that will revolutionize the way government agencies procure common-use items.

Dubbed “eMarketplace,” the app will enable agencies to simply “add to cart” supplies such as office items, significantly simplifying the procurement process.

DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman announced the upcoming launch during a press briefing, likening the app to popular e-commerce platforms.

“Ibig sabihin parang Shopee at Lazada, add to cart na lang tayo,” she said, highlighting the user-friendly nature of the app. She also noted that the app will display stock availability, prices, and delivery or pick-up options.

The development of the app is in its final stages, and DBM hopes to roll out the service within the next two months. However, bids and awards committees (BACs) will still handle large-scale projects from agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

“It will be more transparent. The use of technology, lahat ng bidding process natin, everything can be online,” said Pangandaman, emphasizing the increased transparency and efficiency.

This modernization comes on the heels of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signing the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) into law, which Pangandaman described as a “transformative reform.”

The new legislation aims to address the inefficiencies exposed during the pandemic, reducing procurement transaction times to 60 days.

Streamlined Processes and Increased Transparency

President Marcos highlighted the law’s impact during its signing ceremony, noting that it standardizes procurement forms and institutionalizes electronic procurement.

This streamlining is expected to cut processing times drastically, from three months to just 60 days.

The law introduces 11 new procurement modalities, providing agencies with greater flexibility in acquiring goods and services.

One significant innovation is the Most Economically Advantageous and Responsive Bid (MEARB) and the Most Advantageous and Responsive Bid (MARB) concepts.

These approaches consider the qualitative economic value rather than just the quantitative, allowing for better overall procurement decisions.

“This frees us from the obligation of selecting the lowest-priced bid when there is a better choice,” President Marcos explained. “This will ensure that we get not only the best prices but the best deals for our clients—the Filipino people.”

Professionalization and Sustainable Practices

The NGPA also seeks to professionalize public procurement by developing a cohort of procurement professionals with technical expertise and ethical standards.

Additionally, it incorporates sustainable procurement principles, aiming for value for money while minimizing environmental impact.

“Mahabang proseso pa ito. After this signing, we will develop rules and regulations for new alternatives. Within the year, we will have our eMarketplace,” Pangandaman stated, outlining the next steps in implementing the new law.

The inclusive procurement program ensures opportunities for vulnerable and marginalized sectors, encouraging the involvement of microenterprises, social enterprises, and startups.

This inclusivity extends to programs focused on gender and ethnic equity, poverty reduction, and adherence to labor standards.