Elected, appointed officials warned: Personal use of government-owned vehicles prohibited
By Chito Chavez
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reminded on Wednesday, April 1, elected and appointed local officials that personal use of government-owned vehicles on weekends and holidays is strictly prohibited except in instances that are directly connected with the performance of official functions or duties.
Issued under Memorandum Circular 2026-011, the DILG stated that the policy covers all provincial, city, municipal, and barangay elected and appointed officials, as well as DILG Central Office, regional and field office personnel and officials and Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and other attached DILG agency personnel.
Aside from elected and appointed local officials, the directive applies to DILG Central, Regional, and Field personnel and DILG attached agencies.
Likewise, the DILG warned that government personnel face administrative and criminal liability for the illegal use of government-owned motor vehicles.
In issuing the circular, the DILG explained the need to strengthen compliance with existing rules, particularly during non-working days, to prevent unauthorized and non-official use of government vehicles that leads to unnecessary public expenditure and undermines public trust.
“Government vehicles are provided exclusively to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of public service. Their use is a privilege anchored on public trust,” the DILG said.
“Any unauthorized use, especially for personal purposes during weekends and holidays, runs contrary to the principles of accountability, integrity, and modest living expected of public servants,” it added.