'Stop the deal,' hospital execs asked on P135M equipment buy
An urgent call has been made to top officials of a government hospital here over a multi-million purchase of hospital equipment. Such, as questions now were raised on the regularity, legality and propriety of the purchase, the entire deal feared to be disadvantageous to the government.
Valued over P135 million, the questioned transaction was made by the West Visayas State University Medical Center (WVSUMC). The letter obtained by The News Today was addressed to the university's Board of Regents, the governing body tasked to oversee hospital functions and transactions. It was signed by retired Judge Amelita Benedicto and Eduardo Aguillon, private sector representatives of the Board.
The issues as raised against the hospital equipment purchase was directed at the WVSUMC transaction with Himex Corporation and Medicotek. Himex got the nod on its "lease-to-own" scheme, an offer dismissed by oppositors as one allegedly riddled with anomaly. It was further said to be disadvantageous to the hospital in particular and government in general. Outside sources also said there could be over P50 million in possible overprice.
"Controversial at the very least," the duo said of the P135M equipment purchase while adding that based on information gathered, "other competent distributors are also capable of offering rent-to-own schemes which could even be more advantageous to the government."
As such, it was sought that the project "be held in abeyance until all the legal questions evident in the whole process are satisfactorily resolved."
"We suggest further that an inquiry be made with the Department of Budget and Management as it is this agency that is charged with the proper implementation of R.A. 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act)," excerpts of the letter went.
The purchase was realized as per Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Resolution No. 34 approved by Dr. Ramon Guerra, Hospital Director. Among the considerations stated was the no cash-out outlay for the outright purchase of said equipment with Himex responsible for the maintenance including labor and spare parts. It was also averred that the acquisition will be able to generate revenues and help finance the monthly payments.
Opposition as gathered by The News Today downplayed the BAC's position stressing that it is not only riddled with anomaly but overpriced. Further still, at least seven other suppliers are reportedly able to offer a better deal for the government had the matter been given due course and consideration.
Lawyer Norberto Posecion, university counsel moved to support the purchase in an official comment sought on the matter.
Hospital insiders told TNT of efforts now made by yet to be known group of complainants who are reportedly out to seek a congressional probe on the all of the hospital's transactions. Sources also confirmed that yet another complaint is underway and set to be submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman.
The News Today tried to get the side of Dr. Guerra but efforts proved futile at press time.