Republic of the Philippines

  Remulla: Swift rescue of kidnapped businesswoman marks success of Unified 911 Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Friday said that the quick rescue of a kidnapped businesswoman in Quezon City and the arrest of 11 suspects by the Philippine National Police – Anti Kidnapping Group (PNP – AKG) can be considered as a major success story of the newly-launched Unified 911 System.   “May success story kaagad ang 911. Without ‘yung [unified] 911, hindi rin mahuhuli agad. Kasi dati hindi mo alam sino tatawagan mo eh. Dahil unified na, isang tawag na lang, makakapunta agad,” he said. According to Remulla, PNP-AKG Operatives successfully rescued on Thursday a kidnapped 78-year-old businesswoman inside a bank in Quezon City, arresting three (3) identified suspects on the spot, and eight (8) more soon after. Prior to this, he said the PNP was already working on the kidnapping case before bank officers notified the situation over the emergency call system. After the call, PNP immediately responded within 2 minutes. Remulla said three of the 11 suspects arrested are former members of the Philippine Marines, two of which were discharged, while the other was dismissed. Follow-up operations are also underway as further investigations take place, the DILG Chief noted. “It shows that the entire ecosystem of law enforcement [works]. It occurred while we were in the 911, It was called in, and then within minutes, nag-respond agad. So the 911 system works, natawag agad, at dinispatch kaagad yung pag huli,” Remulla said, commending the active coordination made within the 911 system. “I’d like to congratulate the PNP and the AKG for their fine work. I’d also congratulate the 911 system for having its first victory.” He encouraged the public to use the unified 911 system to report emergencies. “Mula Tawi-tawi hanggang Jolo, pwede ho kayong tumawag. Isang numero na lang, maaabot po ang mga first responders natin.” The swift and successful resolution of this kidnapping case is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s agenda of enhancing public safety and reinforcing the rule of law. Under the administration’s focus on modernizing government systems, the implementation of the Unified 911 system is a major step toward more efficient emergency response and disaster management. ###

DILG to LGUs: Fast-track telecom permits or face sanctions The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered all local government units (LGUs) to speed up the processing of permits and clearances for telecommunications and internet infrastructure to support the country’s digital transformation. In Memorandum Circular No. 2025-090, the DILG reminded provincial governors, city and municipal mayors, and punong barangays to fully implement the streamlined permitting process under Executive Order (EO) No. 32 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). EO 32 requires simplified and standardized procedures for the construction, installation, and repair of telecom and internet facilities to eliminate red tape and delays. This directive supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for stronger digital connectivity, especially in underserved and remote areas, as part of the country’s economic recovery and digital transformation under Bagong Pilipinas.  LGUs must adopt the IRR through local ordinances and ensure that permits such as building, locational, fire safety, excavation, and barangay clearances are processed within prescribed timelines. They are also mandated to set up One-Stop Shops to consolidate frontline services and reduce bottlenecks. The DILG warned that officials who delay or complicate the process may face penalties under Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. Sanctions include suspension, dismissal, fines of up to ₱2 million, and even imprisonment. Grave misconduct or gross neglect of duty related to this mandate carries dismissal from service even on the first offense. The Department also urged service providers and the public to report irregularities in the issuance of permits. Complaints will be investigated and acted upon, while DILG regional offices will closely monitor LGU compliance and extend guidance to ensure proper implementation. ###

DILG defends proposed NTF-ELCAC budget hike to over ₱8-billion The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reaffirmed its support for the whole-of-government initiative to develop the Philippines as Asia’s Premier Creative Hub by 2030, emphasizing the role of local government units (LGUs) in promoting and supporting the country’s creative industries. The DILG noted that 1,637 Local Culture and Arts Councils (LCACs) have been established across the country. These councils help empower local artisans and creatives through programs focused on preserving and enriching Filipino culture and arts. In addition, 688 LGUs have created their own Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Offices/Units (LEDIPOs), tasked with implementing local policies and programs that support the development of the creative economy. As a member of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC), the DILG supports the implementation of the   PCID Plan 2025–2034, which outlines the government’s initiatives to promote the growth of the creative sector. This is in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to empower creative professionals and highlight Filipino creativity on the global stage. In line with Republic Act No. 11904 or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, and in celebration of the Philippine Creative Industries Month, the DILG joined  the first-ever Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo (MPEx) led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Taguig City. DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications Rolando C. Puno represented the Department in this event. MPEx is a platform to showcase Philippine creativity through exhibitions in nine creative domains: Audio-Visual Media, Digital Interactive Media, Design, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Creative Services, Traditional Cultural Expressions, Cultural Sites, and Publishing and Printed Media. According to 2024 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shared by the DTI, the creative economy contributed over 7% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provided employment to more than 7 million Filipinos. The DILG remains committed to supporting LGUs in strengthening creativity and cultural identity at the local level, in line with national efforts to elevate the Philippines as a global leader in creative industries. ###

DILG backs creative economy with LGU support The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reaffirmed its support for the whole-of-government initiative to develop the Philippines as Asia’s Premier Creative Hub by 2030, emphasizing the role of local government units (LGUs) in promoting and supporting the country’s creative industries. The DILG noted that 1,637 Local Culture and Arts Councils (LCACs) have been established across the country. These councils help empower local artisans and creatives through programs focused on preserving and enriching Filipino culture and arts. In addition, 688 LGUs have created their own Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Offices/Units (LEDIPOs), tasked with implementing local policies and programs that support the development of the creative economy. As a member of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC), the DILG supports the implementation of the   PCID Plan 2025–2034, which outlines the government’s initiatives to promote the growth of the creative sector. This is in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to empower creative professionals and highlight Filipino creativity on the global stage. In line with Republic Act No. 11904 or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, and in celebration of the Philippine Creative Industries Month, the DILG joined  the first-ever Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo (MPEx) led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Taguig City. DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications Rolando C. Puno represented the Department in this event. MPEx is a platform to showcase Philippine creativity through exhibitions in nine creative domains: Audio-Visual Media, Digital Interactive Media, Design, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Creative Services, Traditional Cultural Expressions, Cultural Sites, and Publishing and Printed Media. According to 2024 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shared by the DTI, the creative economy contributed over 7% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provided employment to more than 7 million Filipinos. The DILG remains committed to supporting LGUs in strengthening creativity and cultural identity at the local level, in line with national efforts to elevate the Philippines as a global leader in creative industries. ###

  DILG boosts LGUs inclusivity, social protection efforts thru LINGAP program In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for more gender-sensitive and inclusive governance, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is rolling out a new program that aims to strengthen inclusivity and safeguard the most vulnerable sectors at the local level. Called  the Local Initiative in Governance and Social Protection or LINGAP, the  program harmonizes existing initiatives to ensure effective implementation of  social protection policies across LGUs, focusing on gender equality, diversity, and social inclusion (GEDSI).   It is anchored on Executive Order 100 which institutionalizes the country’s Diversity and Inclusion Program (DIP), and  Executive Order 51 which safeguards members of the LGBTQIA+ community against discrimination. Under the LINGAP program, the Department will strengthen LGUs’ implementation of health-related policies such as the Universal Health Care Act, the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) Act, and the Zero Hunger goal.  It also supports initiatives on  literacy, poverty alleviation, and the advancement of rights and protection of Persons with Disability (PWD), Senior Citizens, Solo Parents, and members of the LGBTQIA+. A nationwide program launch is set this October to unveil the inter-agency commitments of the DILG on health, nutrition, reproductive health, poverty, education, gender equality, disability, and senior citizens. The  activity will also serve as a venue for sharing GEDSI-responsive best practices among LGUs. With  LINGAP, the Department affirms its commitment to gender-sensitive, inclusive, and resilient local governance that enables vulnerable sectors to contribute in nation-building. ###

DILG urges whole-of-society approach to sustain gains in crime prevention In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s call to adopt a whole-of-society approach in crime prevention, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Friday called on all sectors to strengthen collective efforts in peace and order as the country’s crime rate declined. At the culmination of the 31st National Crime Prevention Week (NCPW) led by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) in Quezon City, DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications Rolando C. Puno, representing Secretary and NAPOLCOM Chairperson Jonvic Remulla, underscored that peace and order requires the unity of local government units (LGUs), barangays, and the citizenry. “The partnership of LGUs, enforcers, and citizens is our strongest shield against crime,” he stressed. Puno highlighted the results of such efforts, citing a 15.77 percent drop in crime volume from July 2022 to May 2025 compared to the last three years of the previous administration (July 2019 to May 2022), and the  8.38 percent decrease from January to August of this year versus the same period in 2024. “These are not just numbers; they represent lives protected, families kept safe, and communities given the chance to thrive.” The DILG official urged local  leaders to  maintain collaboration with the police and communities.  “I call on our local chief executives to continue working hand-in-hand with our police and with the people they serve,” he said,  thanking Metro Manila LGUs for their support  in crime prevention and peace and order. NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Atty. Rafael Vicente Calinisan echoed the call: “LGUs serve as the crucial link between national policy and grassroots action.” The activity is aligned with Presidential Proclamation No. 461. s. 1994, declaring the first week of September of every year as NCPW. NAPOLCOM, together with DILG, the Philippine National Police, and relevant stakeholders, leads the observance of NCPW nationwide. Through NCPW, the DILG reaffirms its commitment to protect Filipino families by building a nation with safer streets and stronger communities, where peace and justice are felt in every barangay. ###

DILG to Review Performance of 1,716 Local Anti-Drug Councils in 2024 Using Online System The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will conduct its annual audit of 1,716 local Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs) this year to evaluate how well they are tackling the drug problem in their communities. The audit will cover ADACs from 82 provinces, 149 cities, and 1,485 municipalities and will assess their performance for the year 2024. The goal is to check how effective these councils are, and to identify innovative programs and successful strategies in the fight against illegal drugs. Eight key areas will be reviewed during the audit: Re-establishment or reorganization of local ADACs, Regular conduct of council meetings, Budget allocation and implementation of anti-drug programs, Support provided to barangay level Anti Drug Abuse Committees, Oversight and management, Efforts to clear barangays of drug influence and sustain these gains, Access to rehabilitation and reintegration services, and Local systems in place to ensure accountability and integrity. To ensure a fair and objective process, each audit team will include members from the Philippine National Police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Dangerous Drugs Board, and accredited civil society organizations. The entire audit will be done through the ADAC Functionality Monitoring System (ADAC-FMS)—a digital platform for submitting and reviewing reports. All supporting documents must be uploaded to this system, and local government units (LGUs) will also be able to view their results there. Each ADAC will be rated on a 100-point scale: High Performing: 70–100 points, Moderate: 51–69 point  Low Performing: Below 50 points.  Low-performing councils will receive technical assistance and support, depending on the availability of funds. However, if a council receives low scores for two years in a row, administrative or legal action may be taken. Top-performing councils—those scoring at least 80 points—may be recognized for excellence in areas such as innovation, consistent performance, reintegration efforts, and aftercare services. This audit supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s holistic, community-based, and human-rights-centered approach to combating illegal drugs. By moving the process online, the DILG is strengthening its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and stronger local anti-drug initiatives. ###

DILG Calls on Accountants to Uphold Integrity in Their Profession, Stand Against Corruption The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today called on accounting professionals to take a stand against corruption and play a central role in building a Bagong Pilipinas grounded in clean and accountable governance. Speaking during an event of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) in Tagaytay City, DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications Rolando C. Puno, representing Secretary Jonvic Remulla, emphasized the crucial role accountants play in detecting fraud and upholding public trust. He challenged the accounting profession to take its place at the forefront of reform and accountability, noting that accountants are often the first to notice when irregularities arise. “Accountants are not just number-crunchers… your name and your integrity are at stake.” he said. The DILG Official also stressed that reform must include fixing systems, audits, and disbursement processes. “Your work may be technical, but the consequences are social and political. A bad audit can green-light a scam. A good accountant can stop it before it begins,” he said. Calling on the incoming PICPA leaders to uphold the highest ethical standards, Puno urged them to become champions of accountability. “Be the kind of leaders who make it easier to do the right thing… Be the reason a ghost project is exposed. Be the reason false reports are stopped. Be the one who says: ‘Hindi ako papayag dito,’” he declared. Concluding his remarks, he urged PICPA to support the Marcos administration in helping deliver the promise of a Bagong Pilipinas that is honest, efficient, and well-governed. “We do not need thousands to change the system. We only need a few people in the right place, at the right time, with the courage to act. PICPA, you are in that place. We count on you,” he said. The event marked both a celebration of professional achievement and a solemn reminder that integrity in accounting is not just a professional obligation, but a national imperative. ###

DILG, GIZ ink pact to strengthen resilient urban development in PH In a decisive step toward climate-resilient urban growth, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to implement a five-year  program which seeks to empower Philippine cities to lead the way in sustainable, climate-smart urban development amid rising environmental challenges.   The signing of the Integrated Urban Climate Action for Low-Carbon and Resilient Cities (Urban-Act) Project in the Philippines marks a significant milestone in advancing urban climate resilience nationwide.  Funded by the International Climate Initiative through the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Urban-Act forms part of a broader regional initiative spanning India, Thailand, China, and Indonesia. The project focuses on enhancing the capacities of Philippine cities to mainstream climate change adaptation and mitigation  into urban planning.  It promotes stronger policy coherence by integrating national climate policies into local strategies, ensuring tangible, community-level impact.   The DILG, represented by Assistant Secretary  for Local Government Atty. Jesi Howard Lanete, thanked the German government for its enduring support to the Philippines. “Your support strengthens our shared goal of building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities,” he said during the MOU signing held recently in Makati City.  “Today, we turn another page of a new chapter of resilience. Together, we will invest in green projects, renewable energy, and climate care to ensure a future that is safe for all generations to come,” he added. German Ambassador to the Philippines, Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke also expressed his gratitude to the Philippine government for its proactive role in championing climate resiliency.  Similarly, GIZ Philippines Country Director Immanuel Gebhardt called the MOU a key milestone for the Urban-Act project. The DILG, as the main project partner, will oversee project management, ensure operational  feasibility, financial accountability, deploy experts; and provide office support.  Key national government agency partners are the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).  They will contribute to policy updates and development, technical services, cross-sectoral collaboration, and incentive frameworks to accelerate urban climate action. Antipolo City (Rizal), Bacolod City (Negros Occidental), and Tagbilaran City (Bohol) have been identified as pilot areas where climate-responsive urban development plans will be crafted and tested. Urban-Act supports the Philippines’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, and advances  the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This partnership embodies the national government’s ongoing commitment to fostering climate-resilient communities in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s vision of a future-ready, inclusive, and sustainable Bagong Pilipinas built on innovation and resilient governance. ###