When people think about the government, oftentimes, they only see the work done at the national level. But what about the work done at the local level? This is where the DILG comes in. For those who are not familiar, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for promoting peace and order, ensuring public safety programs, and strengthening local government capability aimed towards the effective delivery of basic services to the citizenry.
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Every Filipino, whether based in the Philippines or abroad, should know about the scope and coverage of the work rendered by this agency because they or their families are directly affected by what this agency does. Read the following sections to learn more about the role, functions, programs, and services of the DILG.
What is the Meaning of DILG?
DILG stands for Department of the Interior and Local Government in the Philippines.
What is the Purpose of DILG?
The DILG, or Department of the Interior and Local Government, is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for overseeing the country’s local government units (LGUs). Its main purpose is to ensure that LGUs are efficient and effective in carrying out their mandates, and that they are accountable to the people they serve. The DILG also provides LGUs with technical and financial assistance, and works with them to implement national policies and programs at the local level.
Brief History
The Department of Interior and Local Government traces its roots back to the Philippine Revolution. On March 22, 1897, the first department was established by the Katipunan Government at the Tejeros Convention.
The new government, which was composed of General Aguinaldo and Andres Bonifacio, was established on April 17, 1897. At the Naic Assembly, General Alvarez was appointed as the new Secretary of Interior.
The Department of Interior was included in the Biak-na-Bato Constitution, which was signed on November 1, 1897. According to Article XV, the agency has various powers and functions, such as monitoring and controlling illegal activities, issuing public information, and maintaining roads and bridges.
As the years of struggle for self-government and independence continued, the Interior Department was given the task of carrying out various functions. These include maintaining law and order, monitoring and controlling illegal activities, and providing guidance to the local government.
In 1950, the Interior Department’s functions were transferred to the local government division of the Office of the President.
On January 6, 1956, Presidential Assistant for Community Development Ramon Magsaysay established the PACD to implement a program aimed at improving the living conditions of the country’s communities. This project will involve coordinating and integrating the various efforts of civic and governmental agencies.
In 1972, a Presidential Decree created the Department of Local Government and Community Development (DLGCD), through a letter of implementation. This department was established ten years later in 1982.
In 1987, the DLGCD was renamed as the Department of Local Government after it was re-organized under Executive Order 777. In the following year, the agency was renamed again following Executive Order 262.
In 1990, the DLG was reorganized into the Department of Interior and Local Government following the Reorganization Act 6975.
The law created the PNP out of the PC-INP. The new DILG was then able to integrate various agencies, such as the Bureau of Prisons Management and the Bureau of Public Safety. It also absorbed the anti-hijacking unit of the DND.
The passage of Republic Act 6975 in 1991 marked the end of the decades-long separation between the police and local governments.
The Department of Interior and Local Government now faces a new era of addressing the various challenges of local autonomy, public safety, and peace and order.
Functions and Responsibilities of DILG
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is the primary government agency responsible for enforcing the law and maintaining peace and order in the Philippines. It is also tasked with providing support and assistance to local government units (LGUs) in the country. Below are some of the department’s vested power and functions:
- Assist the President in exercising broad oversight over local governments.
- Advise the President on the issuance of policies, rules, regulations, and other documents relating to general supervision of local governments and public order and safety.
- Establish and prescribe rules, regulations, and other issuances for the application of laws concerning public order and safety, general oversight of local governments, and the promotion of local autonomy and community empowerment, as well as monitor their compliance.
- Contribute to the creation of legislation pertaining to local governments, law enforcement, and public safety;
- Create and implement strategies, policies, programs, and initiatives to promote peace and order, keep the public safe, and strengthen the administrative, technical, and financial capacities of local government offices and people.
- Create strategies, policies, and programs to deal with local catastrophes caused by natural and man-made disasters.
- To ensure the effective and efficient delivery of key public services, establish a system of coordination and cooperation among residents, local leaders, and the Department.
- Organize, train, and equip a national and civilian police force with the primary goal of fulfilling police responsibilities.
In line with its service commitment, the DILG works with the following attached agencies:
- Bureau of Fire Protection: The BFP is a government agency that provides fire protection services in the Philippines. It is also under the control of the local government and the Interior Department.
- Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP): The Bureau of Prison Management and Penology is an agency within the Department of Interior and Local Government that is responsible for overseeing the operations and maintenance of all local and district jails in the Philippines. It is also tasked with providing for the protection and development of inmates.
- Local Government Academy: The LGA is committed to providing its stakeholders with the best possible training and development solutions. These include the establishment of effective local governance structures and the use of international management system standards.
- National Police Commission: The National Police Commission is an agency within the DILG that is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Philippine National Police. It has the power to perform various functions, such as conducting police entrance examinations and investigating police officers for alleged misconduct.
- Philippine National Police (PNP): The Philippine National Police (PNP) is an armed force that is part of the country’s Department of Interior and Local Government. It is also responsible for the supervision and management of the country’s local police officers. These local police officers are also under the authority of their local mayors. The PNP is additionally tasked with carrying out various duties such as training and equipping the officers.
- Philippine Public Safety College: The Public Safety College System of the Philippines consists of various organizations such as the National Police College, the Philippine National Police Academy, and the National Fire Training Institute.
Laws Enacted by the DILG:
SGLG Act of 2019: The goal of the SGLG Act of 2019 is to improve the governance of all local governments. This objective is carried out through the implementation of the PCF and the SGLG. The objective is to analyze the effectiveness of the program and identify areas where it can improve.
RA 112911: On February 14, 2019, President Duterte signed Republic Act 11211, which provided that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) can now enjoy tax-free status on its various functions. This law was made in response to the bank’s charter.
RA 10176: The Act seeks to reinvigorate the observance of Arbor Day by establishing the responsibilities of local governments for celebrating the tree planting day.
RA 9263: The purpose of this act is to provide for the establishment of a professional organization that provides fire protection and related services to the public. It also intends to establish a fund for the promotion of these activities.
RA 6972: RA 6972 aims to promote transparency in public service and ensure all public officers’ faithful performance of duty. The law requires all government officials and employees to file a statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN) annually. It also provides penalties for any violation of the law.
RA 7432: The Republic Act 7432 of 1991 provides for the enhancement of the privileges and benefits of senior citizens. It also allows for the grant of various benefits and special privileges.
RA 6713: The RA6713 provides a parameter that pertains to the activities of public officials and employees. Although it does not cover private acts, an employee or public official must provide a response within 15 days if the matter is related to his job.
RA 8792: The Electronic Commerce Act of 2000 was passed to facilitate international and domestic transactions by requiring electronic documents to be secure and authentic.
RA 9485: The Anti-Red Tape Act was enacted to address the issue of excessive government red tape. It aims to reduce the number of procedures and regulations affecting government service delivery.
RA 7581: The goal of this Act is to provide consumers with protection from the rising prices of basic necessities and commodities. It also aims to prevent excessive price increases during times of emergency.
RA 9184: The Philippines’ government procurement reform law, Republic Act 9184, was passed in 2003. It aims to improve the transparency and competition in the country’s procurement process by establishing a government procurement policy board and a procurement management system.
RA 3019: The R.A 3019 is a law that Congress enacted to suppress the activities of public officials and private individuals who are involved in corruption. It prohibits them from committing acts that are considered to be illegal or unethical.
RA 6975: The 1990 legislation, which was known as the Department of Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, aimed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the country’s public safety services. It was enacted to implement various reforms in the operations of the agency.
List of Programs and Services of DILG
The DILG is a department of the Philippine Government that focuses on the development and welfare of local government units. As part of its mandate, it promotes, encourages, supports and monitors the implementation of sustainable development and good governance amongst local government units nationwide through programs and activities that help achieve the following:
– SERVICES –
Issuance of Certificate for Foreign Travel Authority of Local Government Officials and Employees
This service allows local government officials or employees who are traveling abroad to obtain a CFTAs from their respective regional office so they can travel freely without having to secure clearance from the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Request for the Issuance of Certification of Compliance to Full Disclosure Policy (FDP)
This service allows the public to request for the issuance of a certification of compliance to FDP from their respective regional offices. The certificates are issued after an investigation by the DILG has found that the applicant has complied with all requirements under R.A. 6713 (full disclosure policy), and that no information on his/her SALN is inconsistent with other records in possession of government agencies or officials. This is particularly applicable to government officials and employees who will be applying for new employment outside the government, such as appointment to a position in the private sector or in any government agency. The service is free of charge and is available nationwide.
Request for the Issuance of Department Authority to LGUs to Purchase Vehicle
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued Department Order No. 83, Series of 2018, authorizing local government units (LGUs) to purchase motor vehicles for use in the delivery of basic services and emergency response operations. The new order was signed by DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año on May 24, 2018 and took effect on June 4, 2018.
Request for the Issuance of Certification and Certificate of Accreditation to Civil Society Organizations
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has established a process that aims to ensure that the documents submitted for the acquisition of government vehicles are in compliance with the requirements of the Memorandum Circular No. 2014-155 and 2015-52.
The documents submitted for the acquisition of government vehicles are also subject to the requirements of the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) Budget Circulars 2017-1 and 2019-2. These two circulars require that all purchases be conducted through a proper budgeting process.
Issuance of Department Authorization to Utilize Additional Confidential Funds of LGUs
In line with the objective of establishing a long-term foundation for good governance, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has opened up various spaces for civil society organizations (CSOs) to participate in the planning, implementation, evaluation, and monitoring of projects and programs.
Provision of DILG-Administered Package of Assistance to the Former Rebels (FRs), Militia ng Bayan (MB) And Former Violent Extremists (FVEs) Under The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP)
One of the government’s strategies to achieve lasting peace and social transformation is the implementation of the ECLIP. This program is designed to help individuals who have surfaced and are looking to return to the law and become productive members of society. Through this process, the DILG will provide financial and other assistance to FVEs and FRs.
- Immediate Assistance;
- Livelihood Assistance;
- Reintegration Assistance; and
- Firearms Remuneration. The financial package cover immediate assistance, provision of reintegration process, a starting capital for livelihood, as well as remunerating surrendered firearms.
Request for Barangay Officials Death Benefit Assistance (BODBA)
Under EO 115, death benefit claims are made for the deceased officials of local governments who died while in office.
- Beneficiaries of a deceased Punong Barangay can receive P20,000 for death benefit and P2,000 for burial expenses.
For instance, the beneficiaries of a deceased Sangguniang Kabataan member can receive death benefit of P10,000 and burial expenses of P2,000. Also, the treasurer, barangay secretary, and IPMR of the deceased municipality can receive the same amount.
Request for Certification for Service Rendered by Local/Barangay official for Application for CSC Eligibility
This procedure aims to standardize the process of issuing certificates of recognition to the services rendered by local and barangay officials.
Request for Technical Assistance (Resource Person)
Response to request for a resource person for the conduct of seminars, trainings, and workshops on various projects and programs of the Department.
Rendition of Legal Opinion
The goal of this project is to provide our clients with a comprehensive evaluation and response to their legal issues related to the interpretation of the local government code.
Implementation of Decisions/ Orders/ Resolutions of the Ombudsman involving Barangay Officials, Sandigan Bayan, COMELEC etc
The evaluation and preparation of recommendations and decisions made by the Office of the Public Integrity, the Sandiganbayan, and the Commission on Election, against local officials.
Provision/ Preparation of Position Papers/comments on Congressional Measures
The preparation and evaluation of position papers for the various bills introduced in the Senate and House of Representatives are carried out through the PLLO.
Recruitment, Selection and Promotion of 1st and 2nd Level Positions
The recruitment and promotion process for various career service positions within the Department is carried out through a selection and selection process.
Provision of Public Assistance and Handling of Complaints
Through this service, the Department provides its clients with the necessary assistance in filing complaints or requests.
Disposal of Plant, Properties and Equipment: a) thru Transfer Without Cost and b) thru Public Bidding
To ensure that the properties that are unserviceable are properly disposed of, the Department conducts public bidding.
Request for the Issuance of Certificate of Incumbency of Local Officials
This procedure explains the steps involved in the process of obtaining a Certificate of Incumbency from the Department.
Issuance of MC to Participate in Activities by LG Leagues or Leagues Federations of Local Elective Officials
This service helps in disseminating information about local government units (LGUs) whenever a particular league or organization conducts an activity.
Preparation of Endorsement letter for the Issuance of appointment for Permanent Vacancy in the Sanggunian (Panlalawigan, Panglungsod of HUCs and ICCs
The service also handles the endorsement letter for the appointment of candidates for the positions of permanent positions in the local government units and inter-corporate corporations (ICCs).
Request for Information on Programs and Services
Response to the Department’s request for information about its programs and services.
Provision of Barangay Data
This department’s data on barangay and other local officials is used by various agencies, such as the House of Representatives and Senate, for the drafting of policies. It is also used by academic institutions and researchers for their studies.
This service is also utilized for the issuance of certification to barangay and SK officials who are interested in receiving benefits under Section 393 of the Local Government Code. The certification process involves the use of the Department’s database, which is known as the Barangay Information System.
Other clients of the Department, such as the public and the ombudsman, are also expected to submit documents related to the said service.
Response to Complaints Against Barangay and SK Officials
This service is designed to provide the client with assistance, guidance and/or appropriate action on complaints about Barangay officials’ alleged irregularities.
Response to Queries on Barangay and SK Matters/Affairs
This service is designed to provide the client with information and guidance on queries pertaining to Barangay or SK governance, operations, and other such matters.
Provision of Information on Programs, Projects, Policies, Activities and/ or Data on Local Government
Providing information, data, and IEC materials to requesting clients on the different programs, projects and activities of the Department.
Query/ Following upon Projects Requesting Financial Assistance for: a). Phone-In Clients, b) Walk-In Clients and c) For documents routed through the DILG Document Management System (DMS)
To receive the queries or requests for further information from local government units (LGUs) and other agencies regarding their financial assistance programs, then respond accordingly.
Emergency Calls Management
This service is specifically designed to deal with emergency situations.
Establishment of Local Call Center
The Local Call Center Unit focuses on requests related to the creation of local call centers.
Review of Appealed Administrative Cases
Review, affirm, reverse or modify on appeal or upon motion for reconsideration the decisions of NAPOLCOM officials, who are members of NAB/RAB and BJMP.
– PROGRAMS –
Performance Challenge Fund
The Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) is the first program of the Department that aims to enhance the performance of national government agencies and local government units in improving the delivery of public services. It is also intended to promote a culture of excellence among our workers in delivering quality service to our people.
Assistance to Municipalities
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) assists the local government units (LGUs) in their efforts to provide services to the community.
Full Disclosure Policy Portal
This program allows people to file complaints against government officials who are not following laws or regulations. If you have noticed any misconduct by someone in government, you can use this portal to file a complaint against them.
Recovery Assistance on Yolanda
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has launched its Recovery Assistance on Yolanda (RAY) Program to aid communities affected by Typhoon Yolanda. The program aims to provide assistance to victims of typhoon Yolanda in areas that are still under rehabilitation and reconstruction.
SubayBAYAN
SubayBAYAN aims to help and promote the development of the community by making available basic services such as transportation, sanitation, education and health care among others.
Bayanihan Federalism
Bayanihan Federalism is a program that aims to empower local government units (LGUs) by facilitating the sharing of resources and information among them. It is also designed to help LGUs share their experiences in governance and development across the country.
CMGP Program
The Community-based Monitoring System (CMMS) Program aims to promote transparency, accountability, responsiveness and good governance among LGUs by strengthening their monitoring capabilities. It also aims to strengthen the capacity of LGUs to monitor the implementation of development projects funded by the national government or other agencies. The CMMS is composed of two components: (1) Community Monitoring; and (2) Citizen Report Cards.
MBCRPP
The MBCRPP is a program of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) that aims to strengthen local governance capacity in the Philippines. The MBCRPP was launched by then-Secretary Jesse Robredo in 2012 with the aim of uplifting local government units (LGUs) through capacity building, financial assistance and political support.
Video: Department of Interior and Local Government – Scope of Work
In this video, we will get to know the Department of Interior and Local Government and their scope of work. We will learn about their functions, how they contribute to the government, and what they do to keep our communities safe.
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is the primary government agency tasked with promoting public safety, enforcing the law, and maintaining order in the Philippines. The DILG is also responsible for overseeing the country’s local government units (LGUs), and providing support and assistance to LGUs in the performance of their functions. In addition, the DILG is responsible for the management and development of the country’s interior and local government resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the DILG do?
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is committed to enhancing the autonomy of local governments by developing policies and programs that will help them improve their administrative and fiscal capacities. Its Local Government Academy is a key component of this strategy.
2. What department is under DILG?
The Department’s three bureau systems are the Local Government Development, the Bureau of Local Government Supervision, and the National Barangay of Operations Office.
3. What is the role of DILG in the disaster preparedness?
The Department of Interior and Local Government has identified various interventions that are aimed at improving the disaster preparedness of local government units. These interventions are designed to help them develop their capacity to address the effects of climate change and natural disasters.
4. What is the relationship of PNP to the DILG?
The National Police Commission is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Philippine National Police. Also, the NAPOLCOM is an agency within the Department of Interior and Local Government that coordinates various programs and policies.
5. What are under LGU?
The Philippines’ local government system is composed of various levels. These include provinces, municipalities, and barangays.
6. What is the DILG safety seal?
The Department’s Safety Seal is an assurance that certain establishments and agencies follow the requirements of the Health Management System (HMS). It also helps them adopt and use the StaySafe.ph app. The Issuing Authority of the Department will additionally give the Seal to government facilities that are in compliance with the same standards.
7. Who can file a request for authority with the DILG to travel abroad?
All local government officials, as well as their appointed and elected representatives, can file their requests for a Travel Authority through the regional director, provincial director, city director, or local government operations officer. They should also reach the Secretary’s Office at least 10 calendar days before their trip.
8. What are the requirements in securing a Travel Authority?
A request for a Travel Authority must be filed and submitted in the following manner:
- Letter request stating the nature and purpose of the travel, indicating also the inclusive dates and place(s) of destination;
- Endorsement from the DILG Regional Director, Provincial Director, City Director, City Local Government Operations Officer or Municipal Local Government Operations, as the case maybe;
- Endorsement from the Provincial Governor, City Mayor or Municipal Mayor, as the case maybe;
- Endorsement from the TESDA or CHED, and a copy of the acceptance or invitation-letter from the organizer or donor, in case of study trip;
- Endorsement from the DTI Central or Regional Office if the travel is for trade and investment purpose;
- Invitation from the host country, sponsoring agency or organizer, in the event of a non-study trip;
- Statement as to the immediate and direct benefits to the local government, when the travel involves the use of public funds;
- Sworn statement attesting that no administrative charge or criminal case has been filed against the applicant;
- Clearance from Money and Property Accountabilities; and
- Duly accomplished application for a leave of absence, in the case of a Provincial Governor or Mayor of Highly Urbanized City or Independent Component City, when the purpose of the travel is personal in nature.
9. How long will it take for a Travel Authority to be approved?
Travel Authority requests are reviewed and approved within 72 hours. You will receive a confirmation email once your Travel Authority has been approved.
10. Who approves the travel authority?
The Secretary of Interior and Local Government is the approving authority on:
- Requests of Provincial Governors, and Mayors of Highly Urbanized Cities and Independent Component Cities for authority to travel abroad, regardless of the nature and duration of such travel.
- Requests of other elective local officials for authority to travel abroad, when the foreign trip exceeds more than three (3) calendar months, during a period of emergency crisis, or when it involves the use of public funds.
- Requests of local government appointive personnel for authority to travel abroad on a study trip to attend short term technical training, diploma courses and post graduate studies, and involve the use of public funds.
The Undersecretary for Local Government is the approving authority on:
Requests of Provincial Vice Governors, Mayors of Component Cities and Municipalities, City Vice Mayors, Municipal Vice Mayors and Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Panlungsod, and Sangguniang Bayan, for authority to travel abroad on a study or non- study trip, on official time only.
Requests of local government department heads and division chiefs for authority to travel abroad on a study or non-study trip, on official time only.
The Director, Bureau of Local Government Supervision is the approving authority on requests of other local government appointive personnel for authority to travel abroad on a study or non-study trip, on official time only.
The DILG Regional Director is the approving authority on requests of barangay elective and appointive officials and employees, for authority to travel abroad on a study or non-study trip, on official time only.
Summary
The DILG is an important government department that helps to keep our country safe, secure, and functioning smoothly. It does this by helping to ensure that local governments are operating in accordance with the laws of the Philippines and by helping Filipinos to be aware of their rights as citizens.
By ensuring citizens and residents of the Philippines in local government units are protected and well taken care of, OFWs will have one less thing to worry about as they hurdle through the challenges of living abroad, and most of the time, solely providing for their families back home.
Finally, the department helps keep the Philippines running smoothly by ensuring that local governments are working well and keeping up with international standards.
We hope that after you’ve read this guide, you have a better understanding of what the DILG is and why it’s important. We hope that you will be inspired to learn more about the department and how it works and that you’ll continue to support it in its mission: To serve as the lead government agency for local governance, especially in areas where there are no strong local governments or any form of central government.
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Contact Information
Address: DILG NAPOLCOM Center EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Telephone Number: 925-0330 / 925-0331
Website: www.dilg.gov.ph
Email: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/public-assistance-center/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dilg.philippines
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