The Philippine government has declared a failure in bidding for the P442-million National Single Window System Phase 2 project.
The bids and awards committee (BAC) of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) deemed ineligible two joint venture companies, further dimming hopes that the project will start within the year. The development also puts in question the country’s compliance with the ASEAN Single Window by 2015.
Covering government-wide rationalization, standardization and harmonization of all trade data and enhancement of trade portals, NSW 2 – which requires 36 months to complete — is a pre-requisite to the ASW.
Webb Fontaine Group SZ-LLC and Omni Prime Marketing, Inc as well as Center for Economic Policy Research Inc and Crown Agents for over Overseas Government and Administration did not further question the BAC decision.
“Both bidders filed motions for reconsideration but the same were denied,” a DBM source who requested anonymity said.
“Apparently none of the two bidders filed their protests anymore so a failure to bid (was declared).”
The development means the bidding process will start from scratch.
Originally, the Bureau of Customs tabled for this month awarding of the project to the winning bidder.
BOC remains hopeful the BAC can restart the bidding process immediately and pick a winning bidder before yearend
Image courtesy of t0zz / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
