DILG upholds ban on gov’t vehicle use during weekends, holidays

The Department of the Interior and Local Government has reinforced its ban on unofficial government vehicle use.

By virtue of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-011, which took effect on Feb. 6, the agency reiterated in a Facebook post that the use of government-owned vehicles on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays is strictly prohibited, except during the performance of official functions.

Use of the mentioned vehicles for personal use, including private errands, is not allowed. The DILG said that unauthorized and non-official use during said periods results in "unnecessary expenditure of public funds and undermines public trust in government institutions."

This directive applies to all elected and appointed local officials, as well as DILG Central, Regional, and Field personnel and their attached agencies.

"Government motor vehicles are provided exclusively for the efficient and effective delivery of public service," the DIG stated. "Their use is subject to strict regulation to ensure economy, efficiency, and accountability in the utilization of government resources."

The DILG reminded that any violation may result in administrative and or criminal liability.

"Discipline in small things strengthens integrity in public service," the DILG said. 

This ban is based on Article XI, Sec. 1 of the 1987 Constitution, Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, Executive Order No. 292, Commission on Audit Circular No. 75-6, and Administrative Order No. 239 dated Sept. 15, 2008.