DepEd partners with BCBP to boost transparency in school infra projects
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has signed a partnership with the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP) to uphold transparency, accountability, and good governance in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
Under a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), the BCBP will serve as an independent third-party observer for DepEd’s PPP initiatives, notably the PPP for Schools Infrastructure Project (PSIP), according to a DepEd statement on Tuesday.
This collaboration, the statement added, supports the efforts of the DepEd to address classroom shortages and upgrade learning environments through sustainable infrastructure.
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“Transparency and accountability are essential in ensuring that every program we implement delivers meaningful results for our learners. This partnership strengthens our commitment to good governance and reinforces public confidence in our education initiatives,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.
Under the agreement, the BCBP will provide an external perspective on key phases of project implementation, including development, pre-procurement, procurement, and monitoring, consistent with existing laws, policies, and confidentiality safeguards.
BCBP’s participation will remain independent and advisory in nature, providing observations and recommendations to support continuous improvement, identify potential risks, and promote stronger governance practices.
To maintain strict impartiality, the BCBP will not participate in procurement decisions, bid evaluations, or contract awards.
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BCBP Chairman Luis Jose P. Ferrer emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting ethical leadership, integrity, and responsible partnerships that contribute to nation-building.
The MOU includes safeguards on conflict of interest, confidentiality, and nonparticipation in procurement activities to ensure that the partnership remains aligned with transparency and accountability principles.
The agreement supports the objectives of the Public-Private Partnership Code of the Philippines, its Implementing Rules and Regulations, the New Government Procurement Act, and other applicable policies governing public sector partnerships. /atm
