The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has committed to reviewing a procurement complaint raised by cultural gift supplier Amianan PH, which claimed it has yet to receive payment for souvenir items produced for ASEAN-related activities.
In a social media post, Amianan PH alleged that CHED had failed to settle its payment for nine months, while the Department of Energy (DOE) had an outstanding payment for more than a month.
The supplier also claimed it received no down payment and expressed concern over the impact of the delayed payments on its business and the communities it supports, particularly with the Christmas season approaching.
“Hindi po makakagalaw ang negosyo kung natutulog lang sa inyo yong pera,” Amianan PH said, adding that it decided to speak publicly after learning that other small businesses had experienced similar problems with government procurement transactions.
In response, CHED acknowledged the concerns regarding its procurement transaction with its Regional Office IV (CHEDRO IV) and assured that the Office of the Chairperson would personally oversee the review.
“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,” the commission said.
CHED explained that the transaction involved a small-value procurement handled at the regional level and did not ordinarily pass through the Office of the Chairperson.
The commission also encouraged suppliers and service providers to directly raise procurement-related concerns, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, due process, and fair treatment.
