TAGUIG CITY, Metro Manila—As part of its proactive efforts to strengthen and modernize its procurement practices, PNOC concluded a three-part learning series aimed at deepening the understanding of Republic Act No. 12009 or the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA). Held from March to June 2025, the series was organized to equip company associates and energy sector stakeholders for the effective implementation of the new law.

All three sessions featured Atty. Jose Tomas C. Syquia as the resource speaker. A renowned legal expert with over 30 years of public and private sector experience in procurement, governance, and corporate law, Atty. Syquia facilitated in-depth discussions across various topics related to RA 12009.

With its IRR signed in February 2025, the NGPA introduces a more modern and flexible approach to public procurement. It aims to make the process more efficient, transparent, and accountable through digital tools, sustainable practices, and better planning. Additionally, the law promotes transparency by requiring the disclosure of who truly benefits from contracts and focuses on value for money through the Most Economically Advantageous Responsive Bid.

The first session, held on March 17, 2025, focused on the major reforms introduced by the law, which include provisions for renewing regular services, enhanced transparency in procurement processes, and revised criteria for awarding contracts. Aside from PNOC associates, the kick-off session was attended by representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE), PNOC Exploration Corporation (PNOC EC), and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

The second leg, conducted on March 28, 2025, provided a platform for broader engagement among energy sector procurement practitioners. Employees from the DOE, PNOC EC, ERC, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), and the National Power Corporation (NPC) joined the session. Atty. Syquia offered practical insights on strategic procurement planning, sustainable and inclusive public procurement principles, and best practices for drafting specifications and setting the Approved Budget for the Contract.

The third session was held on June 27, 2025, with a hands-on approach focused on the development and review of Terms of Reference (TOR). This enabled participants to apply the concepts learned in the previous sessions, as Atty. Syquia walked them through the practical steps for drafting compliant, effective, and tailor-fit TORs in accordance with the IRR of the new law.

Through this learning initiative, PNOC remains proactive in driving reform readiness, not only within the company but across the entire energy family. In doing so, PNOC intends to contribute to the successful transition to an environment that upholds efficiency, integrity, and public value at every stage of the government procurement process.