The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has launched a probe into at least 24 local government officials for allegedly leaving the country without proper authorization during the devastating onslaught of Typhoon Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan.
Officials Face Serious Administrative Charges
In a radio interview on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla revealed that the officials, predominantly mayors, may face administrative complaints. The charges include gross negligence, gross insubordination, and abandonment of posts.
This action comes after the officials proceeded with their international travels from November 9 to 15, directly violating a travel ban imposed by the DILG intended to ensure leaders remain with their constituents during calamities. Secretary Remulla declined to publicly name the officials currently under investigation.
Cebu Delegation in the Spotlight
The province of Cebu, which was heavily battered by Typhoon Tino, is a significant focus of the probe. Reports indicate that eight mayors and Sangguniang Panlalawigan members traveled to the United Kingdom for official business during the critical period.
Originally, a group of nine officials from Cebu was scheduled to fly to London, but one individual opted to stay behind. While all nine had received a travel authority signed and approved by Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro, a crucial detail emerged: four of them did not secure the mandatory approved foreign travel authority from the DILG portal, making their departure a clear breach of protocol.
Typhoon's Deadly Impact and Official Accountability
The absence of these local leaders occurred as their communities faced severe crisis. Typhoon Tino left 150 people dead in Cebu alone and caused massive flooding that submerged various communities, underscoring the critical need for local leadership during disasters.
Secretary Remulla emphasized that in times of disasters, the primary duty of local government officials is to remain in their areas to lead, coordinate relief efforts, and support their constituents. The investigation highlights the government's stance on holding public servants accountable for dereliction of duty during states of calamity.
