DILG Implements One-Week Foreign Travel Ban for Local Officials
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has officially suspended all overseas travel for local government officials across the Philippines from November 9 to 15, 2025. This decisive action comes as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of Typhoon Tino while simultaneously preparing for the potential impact of approaching Typhoon Uwan.
Official Directive and Rationale
Through Memorandum Circular 2025-110 issued on November 8, 2025, DILG Secretary Juan Victor "Jonvic" Remulla mandated all governors, mayors, and other concerned officials to cancel or postpone any planned international trips during this critical period. Secretary Remulla emphasized that the suspension aims to ensure uninterrupted public service delivery, prioritize disaster risk reduction and management operations, and safeguard citizen welfare amid ongoing emergency response efforts.
The circular specifically requires that all pending applications for Foreign Travel Authority (FTA) covering November 9-15 be returned to the applicants for the duration of the suspension period. This measure ensures that local chief executives remain within their jurisdictions to oversee disaster response and recovery operations.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
The DILG has outlined that exceptions will be granted only for travel deemed absolutely necessary. However, such exceptional cases require dual approval from both the DILG and the Office of the President, establishing a stringent review process for any potential exemptions.
This development follows recent reports that several mayors from the Fifth District of Cebu had requested Foreign Travel Authority from the governor's office just days before Typhoon Tino struck the province on the morning of Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Governor Pamela Baricuatro had previously approved these travel requests, highlighting the changing priorities as weather emergencies developed.
The week-long travel ban demonstrates the government's commitment to ensuring local officials remain present and accountable during times of natural calamity, prioritizing their constituents' safety and welfare above all other considerations.
