Only 1 bidder for DND's bullet assembly machine

Manila, Philippines - Only one firm participated in the Department of National Defense (DND) bidding for the purchase of a bullet assembly machine worth P82 million.

Canada-based Waterbury Farrel submitted an offer during the bidding for the multi-station bullet assembly machine equipment last June 23 in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Waterbury Farrel offered to supply the equipment for P72.7 million, lower than the P82 million approved budget for the contract.

The equipment, which is used to manufacture ammunition, will benefit the Government Arsenal, an agency attached to the Defense department. The government wants a bullet assembly machine that is suited for the 5.56 mm M193/M1855 rifle.

Another firm, Asia Defense & Armament Corp., expressed interest to join the bidding but eventually backed out, saying it cannot satisfy some documentary requirements.

Asia Defense & Armament Corp. informed the DND about its decision to withdraw from the bid through a letter dated June 23.

After examining the documents submitted by Waterbury Farrel, the DND’s Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) declared that the firm satisfied the financial and technical requirements.

BAC chairman Lamberto Sillona, said Waterbury Farrel should satisfy the post-qualification requirements before it can be declared as the winning supplier. The post-qualification phase seeks to determine if the supplier complies with the requirements of the Government Arsenal.

If Waterbury Farrel satisfies the post-qualification requirements, the BAC will recommend to DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin the issuance of a notice of award. The firm can only be declared the winning bidder if a notice of award has been issued.

The DND aims to undertake P120.91 million worth of projects for this year. These projects include the procurement of supplies and materials, communication expenses, advertising, printing and binding, rental of equipment, professional services, repair and maintenance, utilities and taxes.