DILG Memo Circular 2026-006, Anti-Epal Policy Philippines DILG order, government project signages ban
In a move long-awaited by taxpayers and transparency advocates alike, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has officially dropped the hammer on "political credit-grabbing."
Issued on January 29, 2026, DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-006 marks a significant turning point in Philippine governance. The directive is clear: Public projects are funded by the people, not by the politicians.
What is DILG Memo Circular 2026-006?
This new policy, often referred to as the "Anti-Epal" circular, strictly prohibits the display and/or affixture of the name, image, and likeness of public officials on any government-funded projects, programs, and activities.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla emphasized the core philosophy behind the move: “Government programs are not personal billboards. These are funded by taxpayers and must reflect public service, not political credit-grabbing.”
Key Provisions: What is Specifically Prohibited?
The circular is comprehensive, leaving no room for "creative" workarounds. It prohibits the display of the following associated with any public official:
Names and Initials
Photographs and Images
Logos and Slogans
Mottos and Symbols
Color Motifs (designed to trigger brand recognition for a specific politician)
This ban applies to all government-funded materials, including:
Project Signages: Road repairs, building constructions, and health centers.
Service Vehicles: Ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars.
Information Materials: Tarpaulins, brochures, and social media graphics.
Commemorative Markers: Plaques and inaugural pedestals.
The Legal Backbone: Why Now?
While "Anti-Epal" sentiments have existed for decades, MC 2026-006 is reinforced by a trifecta of legal mandates:
The 1987 Constitution: Article XI, Section 1, which states that "Public office is a public trust."
The 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA): This year’s budget explicitly prohibits attaching officials’ names and images to projects funded by the national budget.
COA Circular No. 2014-004: The Commission on Audit classifies these personalized displays as "unnecessary expenses."
Who is Affected?
The directive covers the entire spectrum of local and national administration:
Provincial, City, and Municipal Officials
Barangay Officials
DILG Central, Regional, and Field Offices
Attached Agencies (including the PNP, BFP, and BJMP)
The Consequences of Non-Compliance
This isn't just a "suggestion." The DILG has ordered the immediate removal of existing non-compliant materials. Heads of offices are held directly accountable for compliance. Under current regulations, officials who persist in "epal" practices could face administrative cases or suspension for Grave Misconduct and Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service.
Why This Matters
For years, the "personality-based" politics in the Philippines has blurred the lines between state duty and personal branding. By stripping away the faces and names of politicians from public works, we return the credit to where it belongs: to the Filipino taxpayer. It levels the playing field for future elections and ensures that infrastructure is judged by its quality, not by the popularity of the person who cut the ribbon.
Call to Action: Be a Vigilant Citizen
The DILG and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. are encouraging the public to act as watchdogs. If you see a new government project or a public vehicle still bearing the face or name of a politician, you are encouraged to report it to your local DILG office or through official transparency portals.
Public funds are for public service—not for personal publicity.
Source: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/PDF_File/issuances/memo_circulars/dilg-memocircular-2026130_9d4556fd95.pdf
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