A ?10 million (~$175,000 USD) purchase of computers and a so-called “server” during the administration of a former mayor in San Dionisio, Iloilo is under investigation, raising concerns about overpricing and possible misuse of public funds. Current Mayor Sally A. Lopez criticized the deal, calling the price “too high and untested.”
“Tama gid ka dako sang presyo kag wala pa matestingan kon naga-function ukon wala, nabayaran dayon ni Former Mayor,” said Mayor Lopez, questioning why the supplier was paid before confirming the equipment’s functionality.
Breakdown of the Controversial Purchase
The purchase reportedly included:
- * 6 generic PCs with Intel 11th Gen CPUs
- * 16 Jedel G17 keyboard and mouse combos (retail ~$5 each)
- * 16 Fonudar monitors (estimated $17–$78 each)
- * 1 “server” described as a standard desktop with Intel processor, ASUS motherboard, 750W power supply, and a basic HDD
Even with generous pricing, the PCs, peripherals, and the desktop-type “server” would total approximately $12,000–$15,000 (P700,000–P900,000), far below the ?10 million invoice.
Experts Question the Pricing
Tech analysts note:
- * Basic desktop/server setup: P35,000–P60,000
- * Mid-range enterprise server (Dell, HP, Lenovo): P300,000–P600,000
- * High-end data center server: over P1 million
“The hardware purchased is nowhere near P10 million,” said Carlo Ople, CEO of Unbox, who also announced a “tech care package” to help offset public concern. Experts stress that transparency and proper oversight are crucial in public technology procurement.
Calls for Accountability
The discrepancy has prompted a Commission on Audit (COA) review and a Sangguniang Bayan investigation. Officials and residents are seeking answers:
- * Was the “server” truly a server?
- * Was the price justified or inflated?
If irregularities are confirmed, the case could involve elements of corruption, and those responsible may be held accountable for misusing public funds.
