Lapus vows fair probe on noodles project

MANILA, Philippines – Education Secretary Jesli Lapus yesterday vowed to undertake an investigation into the controversial awarding of a P427-million fortified noodle supply contract to a lone bidder.

Lapus also said the Deparment of Education (DepEd) would await the conclusion of the investigation before deciding to cancel the supply contract.

“We will do it step by step,” Lapus said.

He stressed the DepEd just wanted to observe due process before making any move to cancel the award of the noodle supply contract to Jeverps Manufacturing Corp.

Malacañang also called for a speedy resolution of the school feeding program controversy.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita voiced his concern and ordered all concerned agencies to undertake an immediate investigation into the issue.

Deputy presidential spokesperson on economic affairs Gary Olivar also said the misuse of the school-feeding program funds should be investigated immediately.

Olivar said President Arroyo is expecting to see the results of the investigation at the soonest possible time so as not to disrupt the feeding program.

“We trust that this will be done by the agencies concerned,” Olivar said.

The school feeding program is among the pet programs of President Arroyo and involves the distribution of rice, noodles and milk to public school students to encourage them to attend classes. – With Marvin Sy