Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU strengthens procurement, financial operations through univ-wide training

By Benedict Jay Collado

To enhance governance and operational efficiency, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) held a university-wide training on procurement and financial management, in compliance with the New Government Procurement Act (Republic Act No. 12009) and its implementing rules and regulations.

The capacity-building activity aimed to strengthen the technical knowledge and competencies of university personnel directly involved in procurement, supply management, and project implementation. 

Vice President for Administration and Finance Fides Bitanga spearheaded the intensive training, while experts from various university administrative offices were invited to discuss several operational areas. 

The training began with a discussion with Mr. Mark Ronnier Vedaña, covering budgetary expenditure, the chart of accounts, PRE preparation, obligation requests, disbursements, and supporting documentation. Ms. Karen Joy Garo from the Procurement Planning Section followed to detail market scoping, procurement planning, PPMP and PR preparation, procurement modes, and common transaction requirements. 

On procurement governance, Mr. Franc Anthony Usuquen of the Procurement Directorate outlined the organizational structure and roles of his unit, along with the BAC Secretariat, TWG, and PICOP. 

Ms. Eugenioa America of the BAC Secretariat explained the preparation and processing of the Abstract of Quotation, while Ms. Diana Marie Rio of the Contract Management Section discussed the contract management processes and documentary requirements. The training concluded with Ms. Phebe Pasion of the Supply Office, as she clarified the final phase of the workflow, focusing on project implementation, delivery, and necessary supporting papers. 

To ensure active engagement and practical application, each session allowed the participants to ask questions through an open forum, raising queries, asking for clarifications on complex procurement regulations, and resolving operational issues to ensure seamless coordination across all administrative tiers.