Transparency group dissatisfied with probe of NPO anomalies
The results of the investigation of the alleged anomalous transactions entered into by the National Printing Office (NPO) left more questions than answers, the Filipino Alliance for Transparency and Empowerment (FATE) said on Thursday said.
FATE expressed dismay on the result of the probe made by layer Enrique Tandan III of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).
“The probe failed to identify who allowed the work orders to three private printing companies despite the existence of a printing contract with another private firm,” said FATE, a group registered with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The group added that the probe also failed to address allegations that there was power play and pressure from its executives.
NPO Deputy Director Sherwin Castaneda quit his post as Bids and Awards Committee chair, along with the rest of the BAC members, because of “too much” pressure.
The resignation came in the wake of reports that NPO granted additional work orders to three private printers in printing Social Security System (SSS) forms.
“We are asking for a concrete decision base from the Tandan investigation,” FATE said. “Apektado ang mga kawani ng NPO dahil sa mga anomalyang tulad nito.”
(“NPO employees have been affected because of such anomalies.”)
FATE challenged the government to immediately file charges against NPO officials who were found involved in irregularities regarding the granting of additional work orders.
Still, the group welcomed the result of the inquiry.
In his report to PCOO Secretary Martin Andanar, Tandan uncovered sufficient basis to believe that criminal and administrative offenses were committed by those involved in the NPO contract following reports of bribery and illegal subcontracting.
Tandan decided to refer the matter to the proper investigative offices for further investigation and possible filing of criminal complaints.
Tandan vowed to continue with its probe to determine the possibility of filing administrative charges against erring officials and employees involved in the irregularities uncovered.
According to FATE, the NPO already has a P74 million contract with Western Visayas Printing Corp. (WVPC), and yet it granted work orders to three other firms – Best Forms Security Printer for P34 million, Tri-Print Work for P27 million, and Metro Color for P15 million.
The group insisted that the NPO, as a self-sustaining agency, should let its own workers do printing jobs.
Last Nov. 21, Tandan then asked NPO Director Francisco Vales Jr. to furnish him the papers regarding the arrangements with WVPC and the three other printing companies. –ATM
