Dennis Santiago of the PS-DBM
MANILA, Philippines — The Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) on Monday said it would abide by the decision of the Office of the Ombudsman to suspend the department’s former and present officials and some personnel in relation to the alleged anomalous procurement of pandemic supplies in 2020 and 2021.
In a statement, the agency said it respects and recognizes the authority and decision of the Ombudsman.
“We join the Office of the Ombudsman in its quest for truth and upholding public trust. Rest assured that we shall implement the Order within the specified time frame,” PS-DBM Executive Director Dennis Santiago said.
Under the current leadership, the PS-DBM said it would continue to implement and institute crucial procurement and administrative reforms, while implementing zero tolerance on irregularities and any form of corruption.
It added it will “remain relentless” in transforming the office into an agency that “fosters integrity and quality service for the Filipino people.”
READ: After suspension of execs, PS-DBM vows to press on with procurement, admin reforms
The Office of the Ombudsman has suspended 32 former and present officials of the PS-DBM and the Department of Health (DOH) for their involvement in the graft-tainted purchases of the government’s pandemic supplies in 2020 and 2021.
READ: Ombudsman suspends 33 execs in Pharmally mess