Republic of the Philippines

More tourism-related enterprises can now enjoy smoother operations and faster business registration as local government units (LGUs) expand the digitalization and streamlining of business permit processes, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The DILG reported that 95.23 percent of LGUs have simplified and digitalized their business permit systems to promote transparency, reduce processing time, and minimize delays in business registration and renewal. Through the use of unified application forms, process automation, and the availability of online payment options, LGUs have made it easier for investors and enterprises to establish and operate their businesses. Under Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Law, business permit applications must be acted upon within three days for simple transactions, seven days for complex transactions, and 20 days for highly technical applications. With streamlined permitting systems in place, LGUs are strengthening local economic development and competitiveness, attracting more investors and tourists to local destinations. The Department ensures the consistent implementation of EODB-related initiatives through its EODB online monitoring system, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to digitalize government services to improve the lives of Filipinos. 

DILG urges prudent utilization of 2026 NTA shares of LGUs With the finalization of the 2026 National Tax Allotment (NTA), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged local government units (LGUs) to ensure the judicious and prudent use of the ₱1.190 trillion allocation. The DILG noted that the 2026 NTA is 15 percent higher than the previous year, highlighting the vital role of LGUs in directing funds toward programs and projects that directly benefit their constituents. Computed based on actual national tax collections in 2023, the NTA aims to support effective delivery of basic services nationwide. Pursuant to Local Budget Memorandum (LBM) No. 92B issued in December, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) finalized the NTA shares of LGUs, allocating ₱1.190 trillion to all LGUs in the country. Under the LBM, municipalities will receive the largest share at ₱404.487 billion, followed by cities with ₱274.104 billion, provinces with ₱273.817 billion, and barangays with ₱238.102 billion. Region IV-A will receive the highest allocation at ₱142.278 billion, followed by Region III with ₱116.840 billion and the National Capital Region with ₱71.687 billion. The NTA represents the constitutionally mandated 40 percent share of national tax collections allocated to LGUs and released by the DBM. Following the 2019 Mandanas-Garcia Supreme Court ruling, LGU shares now include all national taxes beginning FY 2022. In alignment with President Marcos guidance, the DILG reiterates its call for LGUs to uphold transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with financial management rules to ensure that funds contribute to sustainable development and improved public service delivery.

Remulla: Iloilo vice mayor died of accidental firing Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday confirmed that the death of Dueñas, Iloilo Vice Mayor Aimee Paz Lamasan was the result of an accidental firearm discharge. Remulla personally went to Iloilo to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation and to address the spread of misinformation surrounding the incident. He underscored the importance of establishing facts amid circulating speculations and false reports. The DILG Secretary categorically dismissed speculations suggesting any political motive, financial difficulties, or mental health issues in connection with Lamasan’s death. He likewise ruled out the involvement of Lord Byron Torrecarion, the vice mayor’s partner at the time of the incident, citing their longstanding and harmonious relationship as confirmed by the victim’s family. Remulla said that findings from the Philippine National Police (PNP), including scene reconstruction, witness accounts, and forensic examination, indicate that the incident involved the unintentional firing of a 9mm pistol inside Lamasan’s residence in La Paz, Iloilo, while she was checking the firearm. The DILG Chief along with Acting Chief PNP Nartatez visited the wake of the late vice mayor in Dueñas, Iloilo, to pay his respects and personally convey the Department’s condolences to the bereaved family, recognizing Lamasan’s service and strong family bonds

DILG STATEMENT ON THE SIGNING OF THE GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT (GAA) FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026 The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), with its attached agencies, welcomes the signing of Republic Act No. 12314 or the  General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2026 – a testament to the government’s commitment to transparency, good governance, and the responsible management of public funds. The enactment of the 2026 GAA, which includes the DILG’s approved budget, reaffirms the government’s commitment to strengthening local governance, public safety, and responsive service delivery for the Filipino people.  It enables the Department to further advance initiatives aimed at improving disaster preparedness and response, as well as  sustaining peace and order across the country. We extend our gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for recognizing the need to strengthen the role of Local Government Units (LGUs) through the increased allocations  under the Local Government Support Fund.  These enhanced resources will empower LGUs to address local development priorities, expand access to livelihoods, and build safer and more resilient communities. The DILG remains steadfast in ensuring the efficient, transparent, and accountable use of public funds, ensuring budgetary allocations translate into tangible outcomes that uplift communities and advance our shared   aspirations for a Bagong Pilipinas.

Remulla targets stronger 911 in 2026; credits DILG workforce for solid 2025 performance The Department of the Interior and Local Government on Monday outlined plans for the Department for 2026, highlighting the enhancement of the efficiency of the Unified 911 System as the backbone of public safety in 2026. In a message shared before the DILG family, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that more auxiliary assets will be procured for the government’s lifeline delivery. “This year, we will prioritize additional firetrucks, police vehicles, and emergency response assets to strengthen the Unified 911 system as investments in public safety,” he said.  Last September, Unified 911 was launched to consolidate the country’s emergency hotlines into a single central number and modernize the emergency response system. It achieved a 97.92 percent efficiency rate for the more than 2.4 million handled calls in November 2025 through its National Call Center in Manila and the Regional Command Center in Cebu.  Remulla likewise reaffirmed the responsible and purposeful utilization of public funds in line with the signing of the General Appropriations Act for FY 2026, supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for prudent fiscal management and uninterrupted public service delivery. As the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) achieved the historic zero backlog feat, the DILG is also considering conducting video proceedings of cases involving police personnel to enhance transparency in ensuring due process.  With the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, the DILG has expressed its commitment to rigorous preparations, serving as the ASEAN Senior Official Meetings on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) – Philippines, and the ASEAN SMART Cities Network lead.    Meanwhile, the DILG Chief acknowledged the Department’s employees for their collective toil, underscoring that national policies are seamlessly translated into local action due to their commitment to excellent public service.  “We will continue building a DILG that is trusted and effective. One that delivers good local governance, ensures public safety, and moves the country forward inclusively,” Remulla emphasized.

Top performers, partnerships recognize in DILGR6 Pagdayaw 2025 The Pagdayaw 2025 event in region 6 organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), recognized the achievements of the local government units (LGUs) and the DILG personnel. Likewise, partners and stakeholders were given honor and appreciation for a year of dedicated and committed partnership.   These main events of Pagdayaw 2025 focused on excellence in local governance and community service with a theme, “Rising beyond Challenges, Strengthening Resilience, Igniting Innovation, Transforming Communities- A Harmonized Year-end Celebration of Partnerships, Governance Excellence, Public Service Innovation and Regional Unity,” held on December 15-16, 2025 at the Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City.   On December 15, 2025, DILG proudly held PASALAMAT 2025, an event dedicated to recognizing the invaluable efforts, strong collaboration, and meaningful initiatives of its valued partner agencies from the National Government Agencies (NGAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the Academe, and Provincial/HUC Governments.   This event served as a heartfelt tribute to its partners that have worked hand in hand with DILG in ensuring the successful implementation of programs and activities that strengthen governance and improve public service. Each partnership, initiative, and shared commitment reflects the power of collaboration in turning plans into results and service into lasting impact.   To recognize LGUs who bravely reimagined systems, enhanced services, and created better pathways for the communities in local legislation and various governance areas, the 2025 awarding ceremonies for the LGUs namely Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Champions and Exemplars (SDG ACEs), Local Legislative Award (LLA), and the Search for Excellence in Local Governance (EXCELL) were conducted on December 16, 2025 and were attended by partner agencies and organizations, Local Chief Executives, LGU officials and functionaries, showing strong commitment on pushing good local governance in the region.   The PRAISE–PISAN Awards 2025 paid tribute to the remarkable individuals, teams, and offices of DILG Region VI whose dedication, professionalism, and innovation embody the highest standards of public service.   The Pagdayaw is a significant celebration in the region, reflecting on the year’s successes and looking forward to the future with renewed energy and determination. It serves as a platform to honor the hard work and dedication of LGUs and DILG personnel, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

DILG honors excellence in public service, capacity development at 10th CapDev ACE The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) recognized outstanding public servants and partners during the 10th Capacity Development Awards for Catalysts of Excellence (CapDev ACE), highlighting excellence in public service and capacity building at the local level. Organized by the DILG–Local Government Academy, CapDev ACE honors exemplary DILG officials and staff, field units, Local Governance Regional Resource Centers (LGRRCs), and partners for impactful capacity development initiatives. Representing DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, Undersecretary Marlo Iringan said the awardees embody President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for dedicated and honest public service in advancing the vision of Bagong Pilipinas. Leading this year’s honorees was DILG–National Capital Region Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, who received the Tatak ng Agila or Capacity Development Leadership Award for strengthening Metro Manila’s disaster preparedness through the Tangguyob 2024 initiative. The Singsing ng Tanikala Award for Best City or Municipal Local Government Operations Officer was awarded to Olivia Bagasbas of Tandag City and Ildefonso Orquejo Jr. of Calatrava, Negros Occidental for their people-centered and transformative governance initiatives. Eden Lanuza of DILG Region V received the Dagitab ng Paglilingkod Award for ICT modernization efforts, while DILG Aklan Provincial Director Dino Ponsaran earned the Dangal ng Kagawaran for their comprehensive development planning innovations among local governments. The Bugkos ng Bayan Award went to DILG Ilocos Sur for integrating cultural heritage into governance, while LGRRCs 6 and 9 received the Ugnay ng Mamamayan Award for collaborative capacity development efforts. DILG Undersecretary Hubert Gervacio was also honored with the Bagwis ng Paglilingkod Award given to top officials for upholding the mandate and core values of the Department in providing capdev to LGUs. Now in its 10th year, CapDev ACE continues to build a Circle of ACEs that strengthens local governance and advances the DILG’s matino, mahusay, at maaasahan brand of service nationwide.

MENSAHE NG KALIHIMJUANITO VICTOR “JONVIC” C. REMULLA Kalihim, Kagawaran ng Interyor at Pamahalaang Lokal  

Remulla: PBBM’s commitment to protect lives under the rule of law intact Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday affirmed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to prioritizing the protection of lives, under the rule of law, upholding democratic freedom, and rejecting the politics of fear. In a recent interview, Remulla emphasized that the government’s approach to fighting crimes and illegal drugs under Marcos Jr.’s administration is grounded on the rule of law, human rights, and accountability. “I think, more than anything, the President is giving hope. That we can do things better. That we don’t have to kill innocent people. That we can have a better program to stop the drug problem and crimes. That we can use technology and invest in our police force to make things better,” he said. The DILG Chief pointed to anti-corruption demonstrations in September and November as proof of the government’s commitment to restraint and professionalism. “The President gave me very clear instructions: ‘You are not to use lethal means at any point.’ So, hanggang d’un lang kami.” He noted that despite provocations, the Philippine National Police (PNP) adhered strictly to non-lethal protocols, with more police officers injured than protesters. “I had four policemen with severe concussions, dalawa hindi nagising for three days. One had a gash that’s eleven inches long in his forearm. Hinampas [sa kanya] yung bat na may pako sa dulo. Awang awa ako sa mga pulis n’un. Tinatapunan sila ng tubig galing sa kanal,” he said. Remulla assured that the President listens and is actively working to address national concerns. “I can personally say that the President heard every word that they said. That he knows what they’re feeling and he knows what’s going on. He’s putting in the proper agenda to fix everything, no matter how difficult it is.” On anti-drug efforts, the Secretary reported significant progress in supply interdiction. “The usual supply in the Philippines is 16 tons pure, then it’s cut up. In this one year alone, we managed to interdict 6 tons.” “It goes to show that consumption side interdiction does not work. It’s really the supply side which works better,” he added. To ensure accountability, the DILG also purchased an estimated 20,000 state-of-the-art body cameras for the PNP and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Remulla reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening public trust. “The Filipinos love the Philippines. They just hate the government. We need to give them hope that there is a better government ahead. That good governance is possible.”###

DILG urges local execs, PNP, BFP to ensure peaceful, safe Christmas season Days before the Christmas celebration, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday urged local chief executives (LCEs), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BPF) to ensure the peaceful and safe observance of the holiday season. The directive supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s priority of strengthening public safety and maintaining  order, especially as millions of Filipinos travel to their home provinces to reunite with their families during the holidays. In a memorandum circular, the DILG said LCEs must convene their Local Peace and Order Councils (LPOCs) to craft action plans addressing security, traffic management, and crowd control. They are also urged to deploy law and traffic enforcers, barangay tanods, and other force multipliers, while ensuring cleanliness and order in public places in accordance with Republic Act (RA) No. 9003. The DILG likewise  reminded LGUs to strictly regulate firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, encouraging ordinances that ban or limit personal use in favor of permitted community fireworks displays.  On the other hand, the BFP is expected to coordinate and assist LGUs and the PNP by ensuring that designated firecracker  exhibition zones comply with the provisions of RA No. 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines and its Implementing Rules and Regulations. Meanwhile, the DILG directed the PNP to activate its holiday security plan, boost police visibility in high-traffic areas such as malls, churches, and transport terminals, and conduct inspections and confiscations of illegal firecrackers. “The holidays should be a time of joy and togetherness, and it is our duty to ensure that Filipinos can celebrate safely,” the DILG said, noting that the initiative reflects President Marcos’ broader vision of a secure and peaceful Philippines. ###