Gatchalian pushes OK of bill barring public execs’ kin from gov’t deals

MANILA, Philippines – Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian urged Congress to immediately pass a proposed measure prohibiting government officials’ relatives from securing government contracts to protect public funds and prevent corruption.

“It is important that we enact this as soon as possible so that we can ensure that public funds go to programs and projects that will help the people and not just the relatives of those in power,” said Gatchalian, referring to Senate Bill 1962, or the Government Contracting and Procurement Integrity Act, which he co-authored.

The Senate recently approved the proposed bill on third and final reading. It is expected to become a landmark anti-corruption measure once enacted.

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SBN 1962 was created “to eliminate potential avenues for corruption and uphold fairness, integrity, transparency, impartiality, and accountability in the procurement process and the utilization of public funds.”

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It seeks to disqualify relatives of politicians within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity and affinity from government procurement and contracts.

“It aims to prevent families from circumventing procurement rules to secure infrastructure projects, particularly amid controversies involving flood control projects,” said Gatchalian.

Public officials covered by the measure include elected local and national officials, Cabinet secretaries, senior government officials, government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) officers and members, and state university officials.

Once the measure becomes law, violating entities may be penalized with imprisonment of not less than one year or more than three years, a fine of not less than P100,000, and perpetual disqualification from participating in or entering into government procurement activities.

Public officials engaged in the practice may also be held liable for violating graft and corrupt practices, the same imprisonment term and fines, as well as perpetual disqualification from public office. /gsg