New Bill Proposes Ban on Government Contracts for Public Officers and Their Relatives
Agusan del Norte Lone District Rep. Dale Corvera recently introduced House Bill No. 5222. This bill seeks to prevent public officers and their relatives from engaging in government contracts.
Purpose of the Bill
The proposed legislation emphasizes the constitutional principle that a public office is a public trust. Rep. Dale Corvera stresses that public officials must adhere to integrity and transparency for the benefit of the Filipino people.
Current Issues
Corvera highlighted recent reports of corruption in infrastructure projects, especially those related to flood control. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also acknowledged the severity of the corruption problem in his State of the Nation Address on July 28.
Existing Laws and Their Limitations
- Republic Act 6713: Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees
- Republic Act 3815: Revised Penal Code, as amended
- Republic Act 12009: New Government Procurement Act
Though these laws include conflict of interest provisions, Corvera notes they are often inadequately enforced due to reliance on self-disclosure and post-factum accountability.
Objectives of the New Bill
The bill aims to close loopholes by banning public officials and their relatives—through marriage, blood, or business—from government contracts. This measure seeks to bolster public trust in government operations.
Restoring Public Trust
Corvera asserts that the new legislation would discourage those motivated by profit from using public funds for personal gain. The primary goal is ensuring public funds benefit the public good rather than private interests.
Emegypt reports the proposed law is a step towards holding individuals accountable and ensuring the transparent use of government resources.
