DILIMAN, Quezon City— To evaluate its current procurement processes and strategize on how to fast-track public procurement in an effective and efficient manner, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) personnel revisited the Government Procurement Reform Act (GPRA) in a three-day reorientation activity.

During the opening ceremony, Antonieta Arceo, chief of the Information Services Division and currently the BAC chairperson at ATI Central Office, encouraged the participants to prioritize their BAC duties and practice due diligence in dealing with procurement documents and activities.

Meanwhile, Atty. Zenaida Bautista-Biteng, Procurement and Contract Management Division chief of the Department of Transportation, served as speaker in this activity. Her lectures included the general provisions of the GPRA, procurement processes, bidding procedures, and procurement audits.

Throughout her presentation, Atty. Biteng reminded the participants that all of the procurement activities and decisions should be documented. She urged them to make sure that everything is in accordance with the existing laws.

“Having all the necessary documents will ensure efficient and safe processes, for you will have your basis in case of dispute,” she said.

Participants learned the importance of their roles as BAC chairpersons, secretariat, and members and committed to improve their processes.

“After this activity, we’ll have to make changes in our processes. I also realized that being part of BAC is a big responsibility so we must exercise due diligence and jury duty because we are always liable for our actions,” remarked Jean Alexa Templo from ATI Mimaropa.

After the activity, the BAC personnel are expected to practice more transparent, accountable, effective, and efficient public procurement processes in their succeeding transactions.

The reorientation was conducted last February 26-28, 2020 at the ATI Rural Development and Education Center in this city.