28/07/2026
READ | DILG reminds personnel: Do not accept gifts, no to solicitations
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has reminded all its officials and employees that soliciting or accepting gifts, favors, gratuities, and other things of monetary value in connection with their official duties is strictly prohibited and punishable under existing laws.
In a memorandum, the Department said it has received reports of some personnel allegedly using their positions to solicit money, gifts, favors, and other forms of consideration from private individuals, national government agencies, and local government units (LGUs).
The DILG emphasized that public office is a public trust and that integrity, accountability, and professionalism must remain at the core of public service.
The Department reiterated that Section 7 of Republic Act (RA) No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, expressly prohibits public officials and employees from soliciting or accepting, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan, or anything of monetary value in the course of their official duties or in connection with any transaction that may be affected by the functions of their office.
The DILG further stressed that violations of RA 6713, after due administrative proceedings, may result in removal or dismissal from the service even in the absence of criminal prosecution.
Those found liable may likewise face imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to P5,000, or both, as well as disqualification from holding public office, at the discretion of the court.
The Department also reminded its personnel that Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, considers the receipt of gifts or benefits in connection with government transactions as a corrupt practice punishable by law.
Violations of RA 3019 carry penalties of imprisonment ranging from one to ten years, perpetual disqualification from public office, and the confiscation or forfeiture in favor of the government of any prohibited interest and unexplained wealth manifestly disproportionate to a public official's lawful income.
The DILG said it will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct across the organization, ensuring that its officials and employees remain matino, mahusay, at maaasahan public servants committed to serving the Filipino people with honesty, accountability, and professionalism.
