DILG reminds officials to be ”fair” in granting permits for rallies

May 2, 2019

The Department of Interior and Local Government ( DILG) reminded incumbent government officials to be “fair” and “neutral” in granting permits for political rallies.

“DILG Secretary Eduardo Año has urged incumbent local government officials to not deprive voters the chance to get to know their candidates to help them decide whom to vote for,” Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said in a press conference Thursday.

Malaya said DILG released Memorandum Circular 2019-61 which say any political party may hold peaceful political rallies, meetings, and other similar activities during the campaign period.

Application for permits must be acknowledged in writing, posted in conspicuous places in the city of municipal buildings, and acted upon in writing by the authorities concerned within three days after its filing and any application not acted upon within the period shall be deemed approved.

DILG also released Memorandum Circular No. 2019-49 which prohibits the use of public funds for partisan political parties and unlawful acts in connection with the election.

Undersecretary for Barangay Operations Martin Diño said filing of charges against officials involved in partisan acts will be evidence and complaint based.

“The department will prepare a strong case,” he said.

Diño said there are barangays who allow the candidate they want to use their facilities but once it is the rival of the candidate, these bets will be harassed.

“Mind you, those barangay captains who do (harassment), you will not stay long on your post especially if we have evidence. That’s why we continue to gather evidence so that once we file them, they will stand,” he said.

The DILG said those who will buy votes will be jailed.

Last month, 52 barangay officials are facing complaints before the Commission on Elections ( Comelec) for engaging in partisan political activities. Ella Dionisio/DMS