Section 20Sec./Art. 20

Procurement by Electronic Means. - To promote greater transparency, accountability, operational efficiency, and value for money, the PhilGEPS shall be the single electronic portal that shall serve as the primary source of information and channel in the conduct of all procurement activities of the government. The PhilGEPS shall maintain an integrated system that covers procurement planning until payment. The PhilGEPS shall develop features that make pertinent information accessible and transparent at all stages of procurement except procurement involving and affecting national security.

To take advantage of the significant built-in efficiencies of the PhilGEPS and the volume discounts inherent in bulk purchasing, through the centralized procurement undertaken by the PS-DBM, all Procuring Entities shall utilize the PhilGEPS for the procurement of CSEs in accordance with the rules and procedures to be established by the GPPB in consultation with the PS-DBM. The PhilGEPS shall include the following innovative features and solutions: electronic bulletin board; registry of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, contractors, consultants, and service providers; electronic catalogue; virtual store; electronic marketplace; electronic reverse auction; electronic small value procurement' electronic payment; and electronic bidding.

Electronic signatures used for this purpose must comply with the standards set in Republic Act No. 8792 or the "Electronic Commerce Act".

All Procuring Entities shall register with the PhilGEPS and ensure their access to an online network to facilitate open, speedy, and efficient online transmission, conveyance, and use of electronic data messages or electronic documents.

Procuring Entities with established electronic procurement systems shall provide for the seamless interface of systems with the PhilGEPS to ensure efficient sharing of procurement information.