The executive director of the National Student Welfare Institute (INABIE), Adolfo Pérez de León, clarified that, to compete in the school meal contracting processes, bidders do not need to meet experience or seniority requirements. The explanation was given amidst the controversy surrounding the bidding for school meals in San Pedro de Macorís, where contracts worth over RD$1,900 million were awarded for the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 academic years.
Procurement process and contract amount
The bidding process, initiated on November 24, 2025, concluded with the awarding of contracts on August 7, 2026. According to information disseminated by the complainants, 51 companies were awarded in the area, including 15 that were initially disqualified and later received contracts worth over RD$445 million.
Questions about false documentation and disqualification
One of the cases cited is that of Manuel Emilio Mejía Molina, awarded RD$31,361,168. The complainants argue that an INABIE evaluation report detected false documentation in his application, which, according to the terms, would disqualify and incapacitate him. Another case questioned is that of Leidi Massiel Cabrera Heredia, who received a contract for RD$38,128,306, although it is claimed that the establishment did not meet the required conditions during an inspection and was only later adapted.
Reactions from experienced providers
Among the providers who claim irregularities, Rafael Emilio Tejeda and Elena Rijo are included. Both have more than a decade of experience in school meal services. Tejeda has 12 years of operation and scored 89 points in the proposal; Rijo, with 22 years, achieved 89.25 points. Neither of them was selected, which has generated protests about the lack of quality criteria.
Contract suspension and inspection review
INABIE announced on September 11 the suspension of contracts with 14 providers after detecting technical irregularities during new inspections conducted after the awards. These actions reflect the concern to ensure the quality and legality of school meal services.
Credits: n.com.do
