Isabela State University (ISU) welcomed officials and employees from the Isabela-I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ISELCO-I) for a benchmarking activity focused on the presentation and sharing of procurement-related undertakings.

The said benchmarking was requested by Mr. Glen Mark F. Aquino (Acting General Manager, ISELCO-I) in line with their infrastructure projects for 2025. With the Cooperative affirming its commitment to adhere to procurement guidelines and RA 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act), it pledged to render assistance to their Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) to ensure that all actions are anchored in the prescribed legal framework.

Recognizing the University’s expertise, the activity aimed to assist ISELCO-I to enhance their competency in procurement procedures. This initiative is also significant as all ISELCO-I Technical Working Group (TWG) members for infrastructure, headed by Ms. Ethelvida Castro (Consumer Management Supervisor, ISELCO-I), are newly appointed to the Cooperative’s procurement team.

During the benchmarking, through the University Procurement Office and the BAC headed by Ms. Johanna B. Corbe (University Procurement Officer) and Mr. Constante G. Medina (University Director for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation) respectively, the University was able to provide knowledge and clarity on procurement activities and processes along with emphasizing the importance of adhering to procurement laws and best practices.