VM Rodriguez' Green Procurement Ordinance passes initial deliberation

IN a significant step towards promoting sustainability, the proposed "Green Public Procurement Ordinance of 2024" filed by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez has passed its initial phase of deliberation during the Committee on Environment Meeting chaired by Councilor Roger Abaday on August 6, 2024.

The proposed ordinance, filed last June 27, 2024, seeks to embed environmental standards in the procurement processes for goods, services, and infrastructure projects within the city.

The ordinance received support from the invited representatives of the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO) and the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), who said that the initiative is praiseworthy, but the "green criteria" need to be established first to guide procurement decisions.

Vice Mayor Rodriguez emphasized the importance of the ordinance, saying, “As your Vice Mayor, I am committed towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. The passage of this eco-friendly ordinance is timely, relevant, and necessary. This aligns with the newly enacted law, the New Government Procurement Act or RA 12009.” 

She further highlighted the crucial role of the local government unit (LGU) as a consumer in influencing the market towards more sustainable and environment-friendly goods.

In response, Vice Mayor Rodriguez requested the assistance of both offices in formulating these criteria.

However, Atty. Kirsten Calvo from the City Legal Office expressed that while they support the ordinance, its immediate passage may be premature due to the lack of Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 12009.

Despite this, Vice Mayor Rodriguez asserted that the committee would continue its deliberation on the proposed ordinance.

The proposed "Green Public Procurement Ordinance of 2024" has now moved past its first reading, marking an important milestone in Cagayan de Oro City's journey toward a sustainable future.