Local government units (LGUs) have been given up to two months to remove the names, images, and promotional materials of politicians from government-funded projects, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
Remulla said full nationwide compliance with the government’s “Anti-Epal Policy” could take six to eight weeks, noting that some LGUs have already begun taking down billboards, streamers, and stickers from public properties.
“A good job sells itself. If you perform well, it sells itself. You don’t need to ‘epal’,” Remulla said.
The directive stems from a memorandum issued on January 21, which strictly bans self-promotion on government projects, vehicles, and assistance programs.
Officials who fail to comply may face administrative charges and possible suspension.
The Interior Department said the policy aims to promote professionalism in public service and ensure that government resources are used solely for the benefit of the public, not for political promotion.