The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is taking decisive legal action against two dozen local government officials who allegedly abandoned their posts during a national crisis.
Complaints Filed for Abandonment of Duty
In a press briefing held at Camp Crame, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that the department will file formal complaints with the Office of the Ombudsman against 24 local government officials. The officials are accused of leaving the country for international travel between November 9 and 15, 2025, despite an explicit travel ban issued by the DILG.
The charges include abandonment of duty, gross neglect, and insubordination. Secretary Remulla emphasized that the order prohibiting travel was clear, and the officials chose to violate it. He stated that the case preparation is nearly complete and will proceed without political bias.
Cebu Officials Among Those Charged
Among those facing charges are eight mayors and Provincial Board members from Cebu province. This group came under scrutiny for traveling to the United Kingdom immediately after the devastating impact of Typhoon Tino.
The timing of their departure is particularly critical, as Typhoon Tino caused massive flooding across communities and resulted in a significant loss of life. Official reports confirm the typhoon claimed 269 lives, with 150 of those fatalities occurring in Cebu province.
Secretary Remulla reiterated a firm stance on accountability, asserting that all officials who violated the ban will face consequences, regardless of their position or political affiliation.
