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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DILG calls for SK policy evaluation on government-funded trips

DILG calls for SK policy evaluation on government-funded trips

Published Sep 16, 2025 01:01 pm
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic’’ Remulla is pushing for the review of the existing policy on all travels involving barangay and other local officials.
Remulla issued the statement after the viral posts of Manila Sangguniang Kabataan Federation members about their leisure times during their Thailand trip.
A total of 667 SK members participated in the event which was reported to be seminars and training on HIV prevention as well as to immerse themselves in the Southeast Asian country's culture and tourism efforts that could be replicated back home.
“Maybe it's time to review the policy that all travel, if government-funded, should be legitimate and should be for a certain purpose," said Remulla. 
“I think we will study and issue a memorandum circular to that effect," he added. 
Remulla also pointed out that the SK should be “remodeled,’’ stressing that after two years, many SK officials “do not function anymore.’’
“What is the use of having them there when they actually get married, they study, they start working, and they have no time,’’ Remulla emphasized.
Manila SK Federation president  Juliana Ibay was earlier quoted saying that thetrip was funded through SK funds, with each participant allotted P33,900 to cover training, seminars, transportation, food, and accommodation.
She noted that the participants received a P6,000 daily subsistence allowance in line with government guidelines.
The Manila SK president explained that all the requirements for official travel were secured, with the trip approved by both the DILG and the City Government of Manila.
However, photos of the participants going on leisure tours drew criticism online, with people on the internet calling the trip a waste of public funds. 
The trip came amid the flood control scandal that put some government officials and their kin under scrutiny for their lavish lifestyles.

Related Tags

SK GOVERNMENT-FUNDED TRIPS Manila Sangguniang Kabataan Federation Thailand MANILA CITY SK
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