The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) warned local officials and employees against the use of public money-funded motor vehicles for unofficial function amid reports and complaints that they are being used as school service and even transportation for weekend and holiday getaways. 

In a statement, the DILG said violators face administrative and criminal liability for what it described as illegal use of government-owned motor vehicles, especially during  weekends and holidays.

It said the use of government vehicles must always be directly connected with the performance of official functions or duties.

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.

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.

The DILG insisted that the issuance is anchored on existing laws and regulations, including the 1987 Constitution, Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, the Administrative Code of 1987, relevant Commission on Audit Circulars, and Administrative Order No. 239, all of which mandate that government vehicles be used strictly for official business.

Under the circular, the DILG stressed that heads of agencies, offices, bureaus, and services are directed to ensure the widest dissemination of the policy within their respective jurisdictions and to enforce strict compliance.