Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 783 on Monday, August 4, seeking to disqualify public officials and their relatives, up to the fourth civil degree, from entering into government contracts. The bill aims to tighten procurement safeguards and curb corruption.
Escudero said the proposal supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to eliminate conflicts of interest and promote clean governance.
“This measure affirms our shared commitment to the President’s call for clean governance. It’s time we close the gaps that allow undue influence to persist in public contracts,” the senator from Sorsogon said.
SBN 783 builds on Republic Act No. 12009 or the New Government Procurement Act, and would apply to contracts involving supplies, infrastructure, joint ventures, and public-private partnerships, except those considered highly technical, proprietary, or confidential.
Escudero explained that despite existing laws, irregularities persist. “By extending disqualification to a broader circle of relatives, we aim to restore public trust and ensure that procurement processes are truly merit-based,” according to him.
The bill defines “public official” broadly, covering anyone in policy-making, supervisory, or managerial roles, whether in career or non-career service, including military and uniformed personnel.
It also mandates several government bodies, including the Government Procurement Policy Board and DILG, to draft implementing rules within 60 days of the law’s effectivity.
SBN 783 will be referred to the appropriate Senate committee for deliberation. Escudero hopes it will be included in the Common Legislative Agenda of the 20th Congress through LEDAC.
“[This bill] marks a strategic step in our broader push for institutional resilience, transparency, and systemic reform,” the Senate President said.IMT
