DILG Suspension Classes Work Messaging Under Fire
MANILA, Philippines — The recent DILG suspension classes work announcements sparked intense public debate over how vital information is shared. Vice President Sara Duterte weighed in, stressing that government agencies, including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), must separate their institutional identity from individual personalities. She insisted that professionalism is essential when conveying important updates to the public.
When asked about the DILG’s informal, meme-like style of announcing class and work suspensions, Duterte admitted she was initially taken aback. “I even checked if their posts came from the official DILG account or if it was hacked or a parody,” she said.
Institutional Voice Versus Personal Expression
Duterte drew a clear distinction between her role as Vice President and the Office of the Vice President (OVP) as an institution. She explained that the OVP has a spokesperson who carefully communicates on its behalf, while she, as an individual, expresses her personal views. “If it’s from the official DILG account, they need to uphold professionalism,” she emphasized during a chance interview in The Hague, Netherlands.
“The person can express, has the freedom of expression [but] an institution does not have the freedom of expression,” she added, highlighting the need for government bodies to maintain formality in public messaging.
Public Reaction to DILG Suspension Classes Work Announcements
The controversy began when the DILG used a lighthearted tone in posting suspension announcements, even referring to citizens as “abangers.” This came despite days of heavy rain and widespread flooding affecting Metro Manila and several provinces. Many felt the approach trivialized the serious situation.
In response, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla defended the style, saying it reflected his personal communication method and that he had no intention of changing it.
Local leaders and observers have noted the importance of clear and respectful communication during emergencies, urging government agencies to balance approachability with professionalism.
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