The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday reiterated the strict prohibition on the use of government-owned motor vehicles during Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, except when such use is directly connected with the performance of official functions or duties.

The policy, issued under Memorandum Circular No. 2026-011, covers all provincial, city, municipal, and barangay elected and appointed officials, as well as DILG Central Office, Regional, and Field Office personnel, and officials and employees of DILG-attached agencies, including the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and other attached agencies.

The DILG said there is a need to strengthen compliance with existing rules, particularly during non-working days, to prevent unauthorized and non-official use of government vehicles that leads to unnecessary public expenditure and undermines public trust.

“Government vehicles are provided exclusively to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of public service. Their use is a privilege anchored on public trust,” the Department said.

“Any unauthorized use, especially for personal purposes during weekends and holidays, runs contrary to the principles of accountability, integrity, and modest living expected of public servants,” it added.

The issuance is anchored on existing laws and regulations, including the 1987 Constitution, Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, the Administrative Code of 1987, relevant Commission on Audit Circulars, and Administrative Order No. 239, all of which mandate that government vehicles be used strictly for official business.

Under the Circular, heads of agencies, offices, bureaus, and services are directed to ensure the widest dissemination of the policy within their respective jurisdictions and to enforce strict compliance.

The DILG warned that any violation of the Circular shall subject the offender to administrative and/or criminal liability in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations.