The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a memorandum circular prohibiting all its personnel and local government officials from accessing online gambling platforms.
The directive takes effect immediately and applies to all DILG employees, workers from its attached agencies, and appointed officials in all local government units nationwide.
Citing the constitutional principle that “public office is a public trust,” the DILG said online gambling undermines institutional credibility and distracts public servants from their sworn duties to uphold integrity, competence, and loyalty.
The department warned that violators will face both administrative and criminal sanctions under applicable laws. No exemptions were announced.
The ban covers all forms of online gambling access, whether during or outside office hours, and regardless of whether government resources are used. The memorandum did not specify monitoring mechanisms but stressed that compliance is mandatory for all affected personnel.
According to the DILG, the measure aims to reinforce ethical conduct in public service and prevent activities that could damage public trust in government institutions.
As of press time, the department has not released data on the number of personnel or officials who may be currently engaged in online gambling. Authorities urged all government workers to strictly adhere to the order to avoid legal consequences.
This move comes amid increasing public scrutiny over the conduct of government employees, with calls for stricter enforcement of ethical standards in public service.
