Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla reiterated the administration’s commitment to pursue full accountability for those implicated in corruption, particularly in the alleged flood control anomaly.

Remulla stressed that at a time when concerns persist over how public funds are spent, the President remains firm in cracking down on personalities involved in the flood control project anomaly. He emphasized that the people deserve honest service and a government that protects their hard-earned money.

“Makakaasa kayo na ang gobyerno ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ay hindi umaatras sa hamon na ang mali, nagkamali at nagnakaw, lahat sila makukulong nitong 2026,” he said during the 26 November Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines 29th National Convention in Manila.

The DILG Chief also underscored the vital role of local governments in sustaining public trust, noting that LGUs remain the frontlines of government service. “Now is the best time to be in local government. No matter what positions you have, we give it our all,” he said.

Calling for unity among Vice Mayors nationwide, Remulla added, “Iisa lang ang pananaw natin: pagandahin ang ating bayan, ang ating lalawigan, ang ating bansa.”

He further noted that honest and accountable local leaders restore the people’s confidence in government. “Ito na ang pag asa ng ating bayan na magbago at makita na ang kanilang inihalal ay karapat dapat,” he said.

During the convention, Remulla officiated the oathtaking of the newly elected National Executive Board of the VMLP, composed of 17 national executive officers, 18 regional presidents, five national board officers, and chairpersons of the standing committees.

Also present were DILG Undersecretary Marlo Iringan, Undersecretary Atty. Jon Paulo Salvahan, Director Debbie Torres, and VMLP National President Vice Mayor Maynard Francis Bumanglag of Pinili, Ilocos Norte.

As the VMLP ushers in a new term of leadership, the Department reaffirmed its support for local leaders as they work together to build transparent, accountable, and progressive local governance.