In the age of social media, posts can easily expose what happens beyond official statements — and in the case of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), one online post has sparked controversy and public scrutiny.

The DILG confirmed that it is investigating a social media post by one of its officials, while the Philippines was reeling from the impact of Typhoon Uwan. The viral clip drew backlash from netizens, aws it appeared to contradict the agency’s own directive banning overseas travel for government officials and employees from 8 to 15 November.

In a statement, the DILG said the official’s identity has not been publicly disclosed but confirmed that the concerned employee has voluntarily gone on leave to ensure an impartial investigation and full accountability.

At the same time, Malacañang, through Presidential Press Officer Claire Castro, said the Palace would also launch its own probe into the matter to determine the circumstances behind the official’s Vietnam trip during the height of Typhoon Uwan.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said that officials who leave their posts during calamities may face charges of gross negligence, gross insubordination, and abandonment of duty. He stressed that public servants, particularly during emergencies, are expected to lead response efforts in their jurisdictions or offices.

“That’s what they need to explain because those are clear-cut guidelines. If they asked the local DILG—they probably didn’t—they would have been told those kinds of requirements,” Remulla said.

The DILG chief also revealed that aside from the official in the viral video, the department is investigating the foreign trips of 24 other local officials, most of them mayors, who reportedly traveled abroad during the same period.

The actions of these officials may fall under the scope of Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of the Philippines, and Republic Act No. 10121, or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act.

Under the Local Government Code, governors, mayors, and local council members are mandated to lead disaster response and relief efforts in their areas. Meanwhile, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act holds local executives liable for ensuring coordination and supervision of their local disaster management offices during calamities.

As the investigations proceed, both the DILG and the Palace underscored that public accountability and disaster leadership are non-negotiable responsibilities for all government officials — especially when the nation faces crises.