In a decisive move to uphold public service integrity, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has mandated the strict nationwide enforcement of the Anti-Epal policy. This directive requires all local government units (LGUs) and DILG offices to immediately eliminate the names, images, and likenesses of public officials from government-funded projects, programs, activities, and properties.
Comprehensive Guidelines Issued by DILG
Through Memorandum Circular No. 2026-006, the DILG has issued clear instructions to provincial, city, municipal, and barangay officials, as well as its central, regional, and field offices and attached agencies. The circular explicitly prohibits the display of any public official's name, photograph, logo, initials, color motif, slogan, or other identifying symbols on signages, markers, tarpaulins, or similar materials financed by public funds.
Secretary Remulla Emphasizes Public Service Over Politics
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla underscored that government projects must not serve as platforms for personal promotion. He emphasized that these initiatives are funded by taxpayers and should reflect genuine public service rather than political self-promotion. This stance aligns with broader efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
Legal Foundations of the Anti-Epal Policy
The circular draws authority from multiple legal frameworks, including the 1987 Constitution, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and Commission on Audit rules. These regulations classify personalized displays on government projects as unnecessary expenses. Additionally, the 2026 General Appropriations Act explicitly bans the attachment of officials' names and images to publicly funded endeavors, reinforcing the policy's legal standing.
Accountability and Compliance Measures
All concerned officials and employees have been ordered to promptly remove or correct non-compliant materials. Heads of offices will be held accountable for ensuring full and timely compliance, as well as for disseminating the directive to all units under their supervision. This accountability mechanism aims to streamline enforcement across all levels of government.
Support from National Leadership
The DILG has reiterated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call to maintain government projects free from political self-promotion. In line with this, the department has urged the public to report any violations of the Anti-Epal policy, fostering a collaborative approach to monitoring and enforcement. This initiative represents a significant step toward curbing the misuse of public resources for personal or political gain.
