A lawmaker on Thursday filed a bill which prohibits public officers, their relatives within four degrees of consanguinity or affinity, and business entities in which they hold substantial shares or beneficial interest, from entering into contracts with the government.
Agusan del Norte Rep. Dale Corvera filed House Bill 5222, “An Act Prohibiting Public Officers and Their Relatives from Entering into Government Contracts and Providing Penalties Therefor,” in a landmark move to fortify ethical governance and eliminate conflicts of interest in public service.
The proposed legislation also bars individuals or entities granted licenses, franchises, permits, accreditations, awards, or similar documents by the government from allowing any public officer, their relatives and affiliated business enterprises to use such privileges for personal or business gain through government contracts.
“This bill is about restoring public trust and ensuring that government transactions are free from undue influence and self-dealing,” Corvera said. “It draws a clear line between public duty and private interest,” he added.
Essentially, the proposed measure aims to prevent the proliferation of the so-called ‘congtractors’—portmanteau of ‘congressman’ moonlighting as ‘contractors’—which entered the Philippine media lexicon amid the flood control corruption scandal.
To underscore the seriousness of the offense, perpetrators will be punished by both imprisonment of one (1) to ten (10) years and fine equivalent to 50 percent of the total value of the government transaction, contract, or deal.
Convicted individuals will also be perpetually barred from holding any public office.
“This proposed legislation sends a clear message: public service is a calling, not a business opportunity. By barring public officers and their close relatives to profit through government contracts, this measure ensures that those who serve do so with integrity—not for personal gain,” Corvera added.
