DBM Enters in a Consignment Agreement with Tech-Giant Microsoft

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) through its Procurement Services-PhilGEPS (PS-PhilGEPS) announced on Wednesday it is entering a consignment agreement with Wordtext Systems Inc. (WSI) and the First Datacorp (FDC) which are Microsoft Philippines partners to supply licensed Microsoft software to different government agencies.

In a press briefing held in Manila Hotel, DBM PS-PhilGEPS Executive Director Jose Tomas Syquia said government agencies would have easier procurement to acquire licensed Microsoft softwares since the department is dealing with direct manufacturers of the product.

The product includes the latest licensed versions of Windows and Office365.

Syquia said the agencies and Local Government Units (LGUs) which will purchase the softwares directly from the PS-PhilGEPS would save at least 15 percent compared to outside market.

The DBM also said the consignment would hasten the procurement process from the usual 60 days to 7 days due to direct access and communication of the department to the supplier.

Microsoft Philippines Public Sector Director Ferdie Saputil said the company would provide support, maintenance and training for the agencies and LGUs who would avail of the softwares.

”The consignment agreement is an equalizer as it creates an opportunity for the government to access modern-day devices and services that top corporations in the Philippines are using. By using Microsoft technologies, government employees can increase their productivity which can lead to an improved quality of public service,” Saputil said.

As part of transparency efforts of the DBM, the product listing and prices can be viewed by the public on www.procurementservice.gov.ph

DBM is also looking into another partnership with Microsoft to procure Microsoft licensed hardware devices such Desktop Computers, tablets and smartphones for fast and efficient services. (PNA) lgi/CLTC/Jarren Hill S. Repedro (OJT)