In a 2-day EU-Asia Regional Workshop on Promoting Transparency and Accountability of Local Governments and Deterring Corruption in Public Contracting and Procurement held on 27-29 June 2006 in Bali, Indonesia, PWI encouraged CSOs, government, and donor agencies to engage in greater collaboration to combat corruption in public procurement.

In a presentation to over 150 Workshop participants, PWI Program Director for Advocacy Kristina V. Pimentel provided an overview of the vital roles of the major players in the institutionalization, advocacy, and implementation of the procurement law in the Philippines. Moreover, she provided the challenges faced, lessons learned, and future prospects for future collaborative efforts between and among the said players. Ms. Pimentel stressed the importance of the balance between independence and partnership among the players. She also emphasized the importance to distinguish between the fact that it is corruption, and not government that is the enemy.

PWI’s presentation, alongside other presentations from Germany, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Hong Kong intended to showcase success stories in implementing preventive measures and tools that combat corruption in public contracting and procurement. The said session aimed to deepen awareness and strengthen knowledge in preventing corruption in public contracting and procurement in Europe and in Asia through the sharing of experiences and best practices.

The Workshop was supported by the United Nations Development Programme and the European Union; and implemented by Transparency International.