Iza Aldana
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla urges the public to expose local leaders who attach their names or images to taxpayer-funded programs, stressing strict enforcement of anti-epal rules.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on the public to actively report local officials who continue to engage in so-called “epal” practices by attaching their names, photos, or symbols to government-funded projects.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the directive is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order to prohibit political self-promotion in government programs and infrastructure projects.
Speaking during a press briefing, Remulla stressed that the government’s anti-epal guidelines are already in force and must be strictly complied with by all public officials. He added that public vigilance plays a critical role in dismantling the long-standing culture of political credit-grabbing.
“The anti-epal guidelines are clear. If there are violations, politicians can be photographed, posted on social media, and we will investigate,” Remulla said.
He emphasized that under Commission on Audit rules, project signboards should only contain essential information such as the project title, start date, contractor, and target completion date—without any reference to individual officials.
According to Remulla, the success of the government’s campaign against “epal politics” largely depends on public participation. “Report them so we can investigate,” he reiterated.
Under Section 20 of Republic Act No. 12314, or the 2026 General Appropriations Act, the display of names, photos, logos, mottos, or any identifying symbols of elected or appointed officials on government project signboards is strictly prohibited.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government also enforces Memorandum Circular 2010-101, which bans the inclusion of officials’ names and images on billboards and signages of government programs, projects, and properties.
The DILG reiterated that public funds are meant for public service—not for personal or political promotion. For News Video: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1HFwgCSfzr/