The Department of Social Welfare and Development Central Office (DSWD CO) successfully benchmarked the negotiation of procurement of goods and services with local Community-Based Organizations (CBO) under the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) – Ilocos Region Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP).
This was the first benchmark of the DSWD CO – Program Management Bureau (PMB) on Negotiated Procurement in DSWD FO 1 due to its improvement and strength through the involvement of SLPAs and local CBOs in Region 1.
SLPAs and local CBOs from the region also participated in the said activity. They shared their experiences and challenges as producers and suppliers of goods for the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP).
Endorsed by the Government Procurement Reform Act, this method allows a more efficient procurement process, highlighting an increase from 8 million worth of contracts in 2022 to 81 Million worth of contracts in 2023 benefiting more Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPA) and CBOs through inclusive community participation of local communities.
Lowela Rafanan, SLPA beneficiary said, “During the pandemic, it is tough to sell our products, but we are very grateful that SFP came and somehow helped us to get back up for our business.”
Several CBOs have become prominent examples of the effectiveness of using this procurement modality, including Jovelyn Carera of Inabaan Norte Multipurpose Cooperative.
She stated, “At first, we were scared, it was the first time we had a project worth millions. It was a challenge for us to repack and debone the meat. As a supplier, we want to provide the best service for all our customers.”
“There are many benefits of SFP to us, first is the income for our cooperative, the second is the work for the members, and the third is the products from the farmers like rice”, she added.
By being community-centric, negotiated procurement allows businesses to adapt promptly to market conditions along with the demands of their consumers. Through this method, the management of supply chains can ensure freedom and readiness for their business operations by drafting flexible terms and agreements.
DSWD FO 1 ensures CBOs will continue to play a crucial role in identifying local needs, setting priorities, and overseeing the distribution of resources, fostering ownership and accountability among community members.
The DSWD FO 1 remains committed to refining and expanding the SFP with the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Program (EPAHP) through Negotiated Procurement and deepened community involvement by leveraging the strengths of local CBOs and adhering to transparent procurement practices.
by James Q. Alcobilla, Information Officer I, Social Marketing Unit,
Coauthor:
Henry Juyno, Information Officer II, Social Marketing Unit
Darren Astom, PDO II, EPAHP
