DepEd to streamline procurement policies

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education is now pursuing reforms in its procurement policies to “level supplier competition and ensure the integrity of the bidding process” and consequently, speed up the delivery of learning resources to public schools.

“To our suppliers and bidders – you are not just businesses. You are our partners in reform. There is no longer any reason for delays. It’s a green light for a more efficient procurement process and quality education,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said during the first Suppliers’ Summit held on March 19-20.

The event gathered approximately 250 suppliers and service providers to discuss improvements in procurement, regulatory compliance and dispute resolution.

Among the initial reforms introduced since Angara assumed office was the launch of the Suppliers’ Registry, a platform designed to directly connect suppliers and service providers with market opportunities within DepEd.

The registry (https://suppliers.deped.gov.ph/) enables businesses to register their products and services, receive bid alerts and communicate directly with the department.

“By streamlining market participation, it seeks to eliminate inefficiencies and reduce bureaucratic delays in procurement transactions,” Angara said.

Meanwhile, DepEd Undersecretary for procurement and finance oversight Rowena Ruiz reported that through Early Procurement Activities, another reform initiated by Angara, the agency has awarded P1.9 billion worth of DepEd Computerization Program projects.

The initiative covers the acquisition of 64,000 laptops and smart TV packages. Further, P864 million worth of learning resources – comprising 87 million modules and 74,000 tablets – have been distributed as of March 2025.

“Under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Angara, DepEd has taken bold steps to streamline the procurement process, eliminate inefficiencies and uphold integrity. Our mantra is simple, it’s composed of three words: organized, fast and clean (procurement),” DepEd Undersecretary and head of procuring entity Peter Irving Corvera said.