Quezon City — In line with its commitment to promote transparency, accountability, and compliance in procurement processes, the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) conducted a one-day hybrid orientation-workshop on the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), or Republic Act (RA) No. 12009, on July 11, 2025.

A total of 128 NLRC employees participated in the activity, including members of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) from the Main Office, its Technical Working Group and Secretariat, end users, BAC members from the Regional Arbitration Branches (RABs) nationwide, and representatives from the Commission on Audit (COA) – Main Office. Participants from the Main Office attended the event at the Ben-Lor Building in Quezon City, while those from the RABs joined via Zoom.

The NGPA, signed into law on July 20, 2024, modernizes and strengthens RA 9184, or the Government Procurement Reform Act, by introducing measures to improve efficiency and transparency in government procurement across the Philippines.

“The New Government Procurement Act is landmark legislation; it is a game-changer for government procurement in the Philippines, poised to bring about transformative reforms that will impact every aspect of how public funds are utilized,” said Labor Arbiter Vilma Maria Plan-Barrera, BAC Chairperson, in her opening message.

“This orientation-workshop is not just an opportunity to learn about the changes introduced — it’s an invitation to actively participate in shaping the future of public service. A collaborative learning environment like this is crucial as we navigate these reforms together,” she added.

Atty. Karina Antonette Agcaoili Agudo, CESO III, Director IV of the Administrative Service of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Main Office, served as the resource speaker for the event.

Director Agudo discussed the salient features of RA 12009, focusing on procurement strategies, various procurement modalities, their applicability, and procedural requirements. Her lecture offered clarity on selecting appropriate procurement methods based on specific needs under the new law. She also tackled contract implementation, post-award remedies for goods, infrastructure projects, and consulting services, as well as civil and administrative liabilities of both private entities and public officials.

“With the new law, we are shifting from a period of reformation to a period of transformation—where we hope to reshape perspectives on government procurement,” said Dir. Agudo.

She concluded by emphasizing the importance of professional growth in public service, urging civil servants to contribute to building a better future for the next generation.

The NLRC’s orientation-workshop marks a significant step in capacitating its personnel to implement the NGPA effectively and contribute to the broader agenda of good governance and public sector reform.

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