Republic of the Philippines

Tingnan Ninyo Kung Nagawa o Hindi: Remulla Challenges Public to Check Delivery of LGU Projects With a 52 percent increase in subsidies to local government units, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla is calling on the public to verify whether government-funded projects are actually delivered and to examine how every peso is spent through the SubayBAYAN platform. SubayBAYAN, or Subaybayan ang Proyektong Bayan, is the Department’s real-time online monitoring portal where local government units must report the status of projects funded under the Local Government Support Fund. “Sa bawat munisipyo, bawat city, bawat barangay, ilalagay namin kung magkano ang nakalaan sa kanila at anong project nila. Tingnan ninyo kung nagawa o hindi,” Remulla said. “We are opening the windows for transparency para makita ng tao kung nagawa ng LGU yung project o hindi,” he added. The allocation for the Local Government Support Fund has reached Php 57,872,578,000, the highest in history, in line with the “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” initiative of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The fund supports infrastructure and essential services nationwide, including the construction of 40,000 classrooms targeted this year. Remulla emphasized that ensuring the proper use of public funds remains a shared responsibility. “It is our priority that the funds be utilized according to government standards and with better opportunity created for the Filipino people,” he said. The DILG chief also pointed to the youth as key allies in strengthening transparency, particularly in supporting the government’s anti-epal campaign that discourages self-promotion in publicly funded projects. “The lead vigilante of the anti-epal drive is the youth. Sila ang nagpopost, mapapahiya ang politiko, tatanggalin na nila on their own,” Remulla said, noting how social media has become a powerful tool for public accountability.

Remulla Orders BFP Clean-Up, Calls on Public to Expose Corrupt Inspectors The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday vowed a sweeping internal cleansing within the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), with Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla assuring the public that reforms are already underway to strengthen accountability and reset the culture inside the fire service. Remulla said the Department has begun implementing reforms both at the recruitment level and among senior officials. “If you think the job of internal cleansing is easy, mahirap talaga ‘yan. Inumpisahan na namin sa baba, sa recruitment sinampolan na namin. Yung sa taas, sinampolan na namin,” Remulla said. “Hopefully, this will lead to a re-formulation of the culture inside the BFP. Kung nagawa namin sa PNP ‘yan, magagawa din namin sa BFP ‘yan,” he continued, referring to reforms previously implemented in the Philippine National Police. The DILG chief expressed confidence that morale remains strong among BFP personnel, emphasizing that the reforms aim to protect the rank and file and uphold the integrity of the institution. “Ang kawawa dito yung rank and file. There are 40,000 employees ng BFP, sila ang araw-araw, buhay ang nakasalalay, pero yung mga boss nila umuuwi na ganyan karaming pera,” he said. Meanwhile, Remulla urged the public to report any irregularities or abusive practices involving BFP personnel, particularly during fire safety inspections. The call comes amid reports that some BFP inspectors allegedly attempted to bypass the use of body-worn cameras by sending an initial team ahead of the official inspection. “Kung merong pumuntang inspector sa inyo at kinukulit kayo, and beyond the ambit of their responsibilities, paki video ang sinasabi nila at itawag ninyo sa DILG. And I will personally take care of it,” Remulla said. He also encouraged the public not to be afraid to come forward with evidence of wrongdoing. “Hindi titigil ito kung takot kayo eh. Ako mismo ang maninigurado na sila ay malalagay sa tamang pwesto,” he added.

DILG, PCW Move to Strengthen Bawal Bastos Law vs Digital Sexual Harassment The Department of the Interior and Local Government, together with the Philippine Commission on Women, is pushing for amendments to Republic Act No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the Bawal Bastos Law, to close existing gaps and strengthen protection against emerging forms of gender-based sexual harassment, particularly those facilitated by technology. During the DILG Kapihan on Friday, PCW emphasized that abuse is evolving, with many cases now occurring through digital platforms. These realities, the Commission said, require clearer and more comprehensive legal provisions. The proposed amendments aim to explicitly address technology-facilitated gender-based violence and expand coverage to groups not clearly protected under the current law, including student interns and trainees. Republic Act No. 11313 significantly expanded protection against sexual harassment by covering acts committed not only by persons in authority, but also by peers, colleagues, and strangers. It recognized that harassment can occur in public spaces, transportation systems, workplaces, schools, and online platforms. PCW confirmed that the proposed amendments to RA 11313 have been included in the Women’s Priority Legislative Agenda for the 20th and 21st Congresses, signaling renewed urgency to update the landmark law enacted in 2019. The Commission underscored the need for Congress to prioritize measures that respond to present-day threats faced by women and girls. Alongside legislative reforms, PCW also recommended that any dedicated Bawal Bastos Awareness Month be observed in April instead of March, to align with the enactment of RA 11313 on April 17, 2019. The DILG stressed that strengthening the Safe Spaces Act is part of the government’s broader commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance. By updating the law to reflect current realities, the government aims to ensure that protection against sexual harassment remains effective, enforceable, and accessible in every space, whether physical or digital.

VAWC Is a Crime Against the Public, Not a Private Matter, DILG and PCW Say The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) reiterated that violations under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 or Republic Act No. 9262 are public crimes, underscoring the State’s obligation to pursue justice even if a complainant later withdraws support. During a recent DILG Kapihan, the PCW addressed the persistent misconception that violence against women and their children cases are merely “private matters.” “But the violations under RA 9262 are considered public crimes,” the Commission emphasized. As public crimes, prosecution does not depend solely on the victim’s continued participation once a case has already been initiated. “Kapag sinabi po natin na public crime, hindi po siya, kapag nagkasundo po sila, hindi po puwedeng ‘ayoko na palang magsampa ng kaso,’” PCW explained, stressing that settlements or reconciliation do not automatically halt legal proceedings. PCW underscored that this legal framework reflects the government’s firm stance against domestic violence and abuse. “Ibig sabihin po nito, yung Estado po natin may pakialam. Dapat meron po tayong ginagawa para mas ma-establish po natin na seryosong krimen ang ganitong mga klaseng paglabag.” Reports continue to show that many VAWC survivors hesitate to pursue cases due to fear of retaliation, economic insecurity, or victim-blaming. Some worry about losing financial support if their abusive partner is prosecuted, while others fear social stigma or lack confidence in the justice system. To address these concerns, local government units are strengthening barangay-level response mechanisms, including ensuring that Violence Against Women Desk Officers are fully trained to provide survivor-centered, confidential, and responsive assistance. “Magtiwala po tayo sa ating VAW desk officers,” PCW urged. The Commission also called on communities to help dismantle the culture of victim-blaming. “Alisin na po natin ang sistema ng victim-blaming,” it said.

Protection at the Frontlines: DILG Says 40,800+ Barangay VAW Desks Are Now Active Nationwide The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported that 40,886 barangays nationwide now operate functional Barangay Violence Against Women and Anti-Sexual Harassment Desks, covering 97 percent of all barangays in the country and significantly strengthening frontline protection for women and children. These desks are assessed using clear functionality indicators under the Seal of Good Local Governance for Barangays, including the presence of trained desk officers, accessibility of services for victim-survivors, and effective coordination and referral mechanisms. Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, and Republic Act No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act mandate barangays to establish VAW and ASH Desks as first responders to cases of abuse and gender-based sexual harassment. These desks are responsible for documenting cases, facilitating referrals to health, legal, and psychosocial services, and supporting the issuance of Barangay Protection Orders when warranted. While the DILG does not directly handle individual VAWC complaints, it ensures that barangay-level mechanisms are present, functional, and capable of providing immediate assistance. “We focus on monitoring the existence and functionality of Barangay VAW Desks,” the Department said. To strengthen implementation on the ground, the DILG continues to conduct gender sensitivity training, orientations on anti-VAW laws, and survivor-centered case management programs for designated VAW Desk Officers nationwide. The Department also encouraged victims of gender-based violence and sexual harassment to seek help through their Barangay VAW or ASH Desks, or to call the Unified 911 for immediate assistance. With more than 40,800 functional desks across the country, the DILG underscored that protection for women and children is no longer distant or abstract, but present, accessible, and embedded in communities nationwide.

DILG VI convenes Inter-Agency consultation on Fuel Price Monitoring and Anti-Hoarding Measures Santa Barbara, Iloilo — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region VI led by RD Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero, CESO III convened an Inter-Agency Consultation on Fuel Price Monitoring and Anti-Hoarding Measures on March 9, 2026 via Zoom to strengthen government coordination in addressing the possible impacts of anticipated fuel price increases in Western Visayas. The consultation gathered key regional officials and representatives from the Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas Field Office, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region VI, Philippine National Police (PNP) Region VI, and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to discuss coordinated monitoring and response strategies amid rising global energy concerns. The meeting was convened following reports of possible fuel price increases linked to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have heightened global concerns over energy security and threatened major oil shipping chokepoints. Regional authorities also raised concerns about potential fuel hoarding, unjustified price increases, panic buying, and misinformation among consumers, which may affect the transport sector and commodity prices. During the consultation, participating agencies provided updates on fuel supply inventory, monitoring mechanisms, inspection activities, and consumer complaint channels, while also discussing ways to strengthen information sharing among agencies, local government units (LGUs), and the public. Among the key agreements reached during the meeting were the activation of a regional coordination mechanism for fuel monitoring, designation of agency focal persons for reporting and coordination, and the establishment of a rapid reporting system on fuel supply and price movements across LGUs. To further strengthen inter-agency collaboration, the group also discussed the creation of a Regional Task Force for Fuel Monitoring and Reporting, with DILG taking the lead in coordinating joint monitoring and reporting mechanisms among concerned agencies and LGUs. DILG Region VI emphasized that a whole-of-government approach is necessary to ensure transparency, consumer protection, and public confidence in the management of fuel supply and pricing in the region. The inter-agency consultation reflects the continued commitment of national government agencies to work together with LGUs in safeguarding the welfare of the public and ensuring that monitoring systems remain responsive during periods of economic and market uncertainty.

More Women Are Calling 911 and Getting Help, DILG Says The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) assured the public that the country’s Unified 911 system is fully prepared to respond to violence against women and children cases, with clear protocols in place to ensure swift, coordinated, and confidential assistance. “Ngayon, mas dumami ang tumatawag na VAWC-related cases. Mas namo-monitor natin at naaaksyunan ngayon dahil dito sa bago nating Unified 911 na single hotline number na,” said Emergency 911 National Office Executive Director Francis Fajardo. Fajardo reported that Unified 911 received more than 5,000 VAWC-related calls in 2025 alone, a clear sign that more victims are reaching out and that the system is responding. Since the launch of the modernized Unified 911 hotline in September 2025, VAWC-related calls have increased significantly and now average between 300 and 500 calls per day. “If you experience violence, itawag n’yo agad sa 911. May protocol tayo d’yan na nasisigurado natin na ang reklamo ay matutugunan natin nang mabilis,” Fajardo said. He emphasized that all reports are handled with strict confidentiality and processed in accordance with established response procedures. Under the Unified 911 system, trained emergency telecommunicators immediately assess the nature and urgency of each VAWC-related call. Cases involving non-physical abuse or those requiring community-level mediation are promptly referred to the Barangay VAW Desk for documentation, intervention, and appropriate action. A feedback mechanism is in place to ensure callers receive updates and that concerned offices act on the reports. Incidents involving physical abuse or imminent danger are escalated without delay to the Philippine National Police for immediate intervention. Police officers are dispatched to secure the victim’s safety and initiate legal action against the respondent, whether a spouse, live-in partner, or other offender. To further strengthen emergency response nationwide, the DILG is preparing to establish additional Unified 911 call centers across all regions to ensure faster and more efficient handling of emergencies, including VAWC-related incidents. As the country observes National Women’s Month this March, the DILG reiterated its commitment to protecting women and children and reminded the public that help is available, confidential, and just one call away through 911.

DILG: 63 LGUs Earn Top Anti-Drug Honors; Nearly 1,300 Councils Rated Highly Functional The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced that 63 local government units (LGUs) have received national recognition for their outstanding Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) performance. In the same nationwide audit, close to 1,300 LGUs were rated as having highly functional ADACs. Among the 63 national awardees are one province, three cities, and 59 municipalities. Each scored above 80 points in the performance audit, demonstrating strong and sustained anti-drug efforts, including effective reintegration programs and consistent aftercare monitoring. In total, 1,291 LGUs earned a “highly functional” rating. This group includes 53 provinces, 33 cities, and 1,205 municipalities. These councils received scores ranging from 70 to 100 points under the updated ADAC performance index. The audit measured key governance areas such as council organization and regular meetings, funding and program implementation, supervision of component councils, sustained barangay drug-clearing efforts, access to rehabilitation and reintegration services, and integrity testing through drug screening. To encourage continuous improvement, the DILG will gradually raise the standards for high-performing ADACs over the next three years. The minimum score will increase to 90 points in 2027, and 95 points in 2028. This step aims to strengthen accountability and push LGUs to sustain and improve their anti-drug initiatives.The audit also identifies councils that need improvement. These low-performing ADACs will receive targeted capacity-building support to address gaps in planning, implementation, and monitoring. With the full rollout of the Anti-Drug Abuse Council Functionality Monitoring System in 2025, the DILG reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and integrity in evaluating local performance. The system standardizes assessments, promotes evidence-based evaluation, and strengthens accountability across all levels of local government. The annual Performance Audit serves as the government’s official mechanism for reviewing and recognizing local ADACs. It highlights effective and innovative practices while reinforcing national anti-drug efforts at the community level. The ADAC National Audit Committee is chaired by DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla. ADACs are multi-sectoral councils led by local chief executives and are responsible for developing and implementing anti-drug programs in their communities. This yearly recognition supports the country’s community-based anti-drug campaign and aligns with the directive of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to pursue a whole-of-nation approach toward a drug-free Philippines.

DILG Region VI, a Drug-Free Workplace ILOILO  — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office VI reaffirmed its commitment to integrity, discipline, and a healthy work environment through a Ceremonial Attestation of a Drug-Free Workplace held on February 23, 2026, at the DILG Regional Office VI. Conducted immediately after the regular flag-raising, the ceremony highlighted the symbolic link between loyalty to the Republic and institutional accountability. It was participated in by DILG VI personnel, led by Regional Director Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero, CESO III, with the support of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office VI, headed by Regional Director Ralph Rommel D. Torres. In his message, RD Ingeniero emphasized that a drug-free workplace goes beyond compliance, describing it as a declaration of the Department’s values and culture. “A drug-free workplace is not merely a compliance requirement. It is a declaration of who we are as an organization—one that values clarity of mind, sound judgment, and professional accountability,” he said, noting that it reflects the Department’s commitment to both public service and institutional integrity. Assistant Regional Director Maria Calpiza J. Sardua, CESO IV, provided the program background, citing Republic Act No. 9165 and Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation No. 13, Series of 2018, under which DILG Region VI adopted its Drug-Free Workplace Policy and Program. She explained that the program rests on three pillars: prevention and education, strict implementation and monitoring, and compassionate rehabilitation—combining discipline with employee support and recovery. Reinforcing the message, RD Ingeniero remarked that “the only ‘high’ allowed in DILG is high performance, high integrity, and high standards of public service.” DILG VI personnel were commended for their cooperation, as the Office reiterated its mandate to lead by example, strengthen public trust, and sustain a safe, professional, and principled workplace. The Office also expressed its gratitude to PDEA Region VI for its continued partnership and support.

DILG to tobacco saboteurs: “Stop now or face non-bailable economic sabotage charges” In line with the administration’s crackdown of the illegal tobacco network in the country, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said today that raids against economic saboteurs, particularly the distributors and manufacturers within palengkes, will begin next week. “Sa lahat ng palengke sa Pilipinas, pakiusap po, tumigil na kayo sa distribution nito (illegal cigarette). Kapag kayo ay maabutan namin, non-bailable ang magiging charge ninyo,” Remulla warned. In a press conference in Tanza, Cavite, Remulla said that illegal tobacco peddlers still have one week to dispose of illegal goods they sell and to halt distributions before operations against peddlers begin. The DILG, a member agency of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council, reiterated that individuals involved in the sale and distribution of smuggled agricultural products are subject to severe penalties under the Republic Act No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act. Such a warning came after the Department conducted a scoping analysis to identify the middlemen in the proliferation of illegal tobacco in local markets which are the palengkes nationwide: “Ang distribution nyan didiretso sa distributor, dadalhin sa palengke papuntang sari-sari store. Yun po ang ecosystem ng illegal tobacco.” Remulla reiterated that sari-sari stores engaged in illegal tobacco selling will only be shut down as they receive a minimum penalty while distributors will face non-bailable cases. “Pagdating sa mga distributors, manufacturers, non-bailable, to the full extent of the law, didiinan talaga namin sila,” he said. He explained the grave economic damage dealt by illegal tobacco: “Nababawasan ang buwis para sa kapwa nating Pilipino. Ang pondo na para sana DOH, PGH, at lahat ng mga government hospitals.” The DILG Chief shared that with ongoing operations, the cost of locally-produced tobacco in the provinces of Ilocos and Pangasinan increased, aiding farmers and the local industry. With this progress, Remulla is optimistic that 80 to 90 percent of the illegal cigarette trade in the country will be wiped out in the next three months.