The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has reiterated its strict prohibition on the use of government-owned vehicles on weekends and holidays, unless deployed for authorized functions or duties.
In Memorandum Circular No. 2026-011, issued on February 6, 2026, the agency reminded all local government units (LGUs), DILG central, regional and field offices, as well as attached agencies that government vehicles must be used strictly for official purpose only. The circular reinforces long-established rules prohibiting personal and unauthorized use of government vehicles, especially during Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.
The DILG stressed that the fresh reminder was issued amid continued reports of misuse of government vehicles outside official working hours. The department heavily underscored that public assets funded by taxpayers must not be treated as personal privileges.
Under the policy, red-plate government vehicles are generally banned from being operated on non-working days, unless their use is directly connected to clearly defined, authorized, and documented official functions. Personal errands, leisure travel, and private activities remain strictly forbidden regardless of the day.
According to DILG, the heads of offices, local chief executives, and agency officials bear responsibility for ensuring compliance within their respective jurisdictions. As persons and offices of authority, they are expected to monitor vehicle deployment, enforce internal controls, and initiate appropriate disciplinary actions against violators.
The DILG also reminded officials and employees that misuse of government property may result in administrative sanctions and possible criminal liability under existing laws and regulations. Fuel, maintenance, and operational costs are drawn from public funds, making unauthorized use a serious matter of accountability and fiscal discipline.
While the prohibition itself is not new, the DILG said the circular serves as a firm reminder of standards expected of public servants. Government vehicles, the department stressed, must remain secured during weekends and holidays, unless officially deployed. By reinforcing the policy and highlighting enforcement responsibility, the DILG aims to strengthen transparency, discipline, and public trust in the management of public resources.
Autocar’s Take
The DILG’s renewed emphasis on government vehicle misuse signals that the issue remains persistent enough to warrant public reinforcement. While the prohibition has long exited, repeated reminders suggest compliance gaps at the ground level. The inclusion of clearer accountability for heads of offices is particularly important. Policies gain credibility not through repetition, but through consistent enforcement.
Government vehicles are visible symbols of state authority, and their improper use undermines public confidence quickly. If this directive is backed by consistent monitoring and real consequences, it may finally translate from policy language on paper into actual behavioral change across all LGUs.
