The Philippines is poised to become a focal point for public procurement advancements as it hosts the East Asia and the Pacific International Public Procurement Conference in Manila. The landmark three-day event, scheduled from April 28 to 30, 2025, will commence with an opening ceremony led by no less than President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
This significant gathering will bring together a diverse assembly of experts and practitioners from across the East Asia and Pacific region and beyond. Delegates will engage in critical discussions and share transformative solutions to address pressing challenges within the realm of public procurement.
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary and Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) Chairperson Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman underscored the importance of the event, stating, “Procurement is a cornerstone of effective governance, directly impacting the efficiency and quality of services delivered to our citizens.
The recent enactment of the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), championed by President Marcos last year, represents a progressive step towards greater efficiency in project implementation and the acquisition of essential goods and supplies.”
Secretary Pangandaman further emphasized the transformative potential of the NGPA, adding, “We firmly believe the NGPA to be a pivotal anti-corruption measure in modern times, fostering enhanced transparency, accountability, and optimal value for money. This conference provides an invaluable platform to showcase the Philippines’ key accomplishments and milestones in public procurement under this new framework.”
The conference is a collaborative effort, co-organized by the DBM, the GPPB-Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO), and the World Bank, with valuable support from other development partners.
Under the theme, “Procurement for the People: Bridging Innovation, Value for Money, and Accountability,” the program will feature a dynamic range of activities, including plenary sessions, interactive panel discussions, and insightful country case studies.
The agenda will delve into critical areas such as the role of procurement in empowering communities, the alignment of strategic investments with generational and societal needs, the professionalization of the procurement workforce, the promotion of sustainable spending practices, leveraging smart spending to combat climate change, fostering inclusivity through procurement processes, and enhancing participatory governance.
The international conference anticipates the participation of at least 150 delegates, comprising heads and representatives from procuring authorities across 15 nations.
This International Public Procurement Conference is expected to be a catalyst for transformative change, reinforcing the vital role of procurement in addressing complex societal challenges. With its distinguished lineup of experts, forward-thinking topics, and a spirit of collaboration, the conference promises to significantly shape the future of public procurement in the East Asia and Pacific region and beyond.
