MANILA – Following online backlash, the Department of Education (DepEd) has cancelled its supposed purchase of around P4 million worth of ham and cheese meant for the central office’s Christmas celebration.
According to DepEd Public Affairs Director June Arvin Gudoy, the procurement was “inappropriate” especially with the current pandemic and disasters.
The DepEd has instead “reallocated” the funds to aid typhoon-hit employees and those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Gudoy added.
“The call for bidding has been cancelled. It was regular procurement but it is inappropriate at this time when our employees are severely affected by recent disasters,” he said.
The DepEd had opened bids on its website for “Supply and Delivery of Ham and Cheese for DepEd Central Office Christmas Celebration” with a funding of P4.278 million. The page to the bidding has been deleted.
“After Bicol, our Undersecretaries will also visit our schools in Cagayan soonest to check the needs of our schools. The welfare of our teachers and learners remains to be our priority and more so at this time,” Gudoy said.
Meanwhile, Teacher’s Dignity Coalition chairman Benjo Basas said while they were “pleased” with the cancellation, the move was a testament to how “DepEd sets priorities and violates its own rules.”
Basas also pointed out the timing of the bidding, citing how it was posted during the onslaught of typhoons in the country./PN
