(Photo courtesy of PNA)
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Friday assured a prompt investigation into allegations of an unpaid procurement transaction involving souvenir items for upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-related activities.
The assurance came after local supplier Amianan PH raised concerns on Facebook Thursday over an alleged payment delay of approximately nine months involving a procurement transaction with CHED Regional Office IV (CHEDRO IV).
CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis acknowledged the complaint and pledged to personally oversee the review to ensure that the supplier’s concerns are properly addressed and that the agency fulfills its legitimate obligations.
“As this involves a small-value procurement undertaken at the regional level, the transaction does not ordinarily pass through the Office of the Chairperson,” Agrupis explained.
“Nevertheless, the Office of the Chairperson will personally ensure that the necessary information is gathered from CHEDRO IV, the circumstances are properly reviewed, and any issues identified are promptly and appropriately addressed.”
Agrupis said the commission is taking the allegations seriously and will determine the appropriate course of action once the relevant documents and transaction details have been verified.
She emphasized CHED’s commitment to transparency, accountability and fair treatment of suppliers and service providers.
“Rest assured that the Commission takes these matters seriously and remains committed to transparency, accountability, and maintaining the trust of everyone who transacts with CHED,” she said.
The CHED chief also encouraged other suppliers and service providers experiencing procurement-related problems to report their concerns directly to the Office of the Chairperson.
“The Office remains open to receiving such concerns and is committed to ensuring that all parties are treated fairly and that legitimate issues are resolved through appropriate processes,” Agrupis added.
CHED said it is currently coordinating with CHEDRO IV to verify procurement procedures, transaction timelines and disbursement records related to the complaint.
The commission has yet to announce the findings of its review or confirm whether any payment obligations remain outstanding.
