Ex-DBM-PS chief admits possible negligence in mask procurement

Former DBM-PS head Christopher Lloyd Lao admitted to possible negligence in the procurement of overpriced face masks and face shields in 2020.

During a Senate hearing, Senator Francis Pangilinan questioned Lao about the significant price difference between face masks bought by the DBM-PS and the Philippine Red Cross.

The Philippine Red Cross procured face masks at P5 each, while the DBM-PS purchased them at prices ranging from P13 to P27.

Lao suggested that the Philippine Red Cross might have had a better network and faster communication due to international ties, including with the International Red Cross in China, which could explain the price disparity.

Senator Pangilinan raised the possibility of Lao's negligence as chief of the DBM-PS, noting that the government might have bought supplies at a much higher cost compared to the Philippine Red Cross.