(MB FILE PHOTO)
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued an order on Tuesday, Aug. 12, prohibiting all its personnel, employees under the department’s supervision and elected and appointed local government officials nationwide to engage in all forms of online gambling, including accessing online gambling platforms.
In a statement, the DILG explained that Memorandum Circular (MC) 2025-082 in pursuant to the 1987 Constitution, Republic Act (RA) 6713 and existing presidential issuances, which states the existing prohibition on casino gambling to include online platforms, which the department insisted “pose an equal, if not greater threat to the integrity of public service.’’
The DILG issued the directive as reports revealed that many government officials and employees have turned to online gambling activities which adversely affect the delivery of quality public service.
“Public office is a public trust. Engaging in online gambling undermines the credibility of our institutions and diverts public servants from their sworn duty to serve with integrity, competence, and loyalty,” the circular stated.
Further, the DILG called on all public officers and its personnel to be accountable to the people at all times, serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty and efficiency, act with patriotism and justice and lead modest lives.
The DILG warned that violators of the directive face administrative and/or criminal sanctions under pertinent laws, rules and regulations.
“The order takes effect immediately,’’ the DILG noted.