No gifts for Jonvic Remulla due to rule for gov’t employees, says DILG

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla will not be receiving any gifts, including for his upcoming birthday on Thursday, in line with the no-gift policy for government employees and officials, the DILG said Tuesday.

“This is to inform all concerned that Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla has instructed that as a matter of policy, all persons are requested not to give any gifts to the Secretary. The Department will respectfully return any gifts sent,” the department said in a statement.

“In lieu of such gifts, you may consider making a donation to your chosen charity. In any case, the Secretary conveys his heartfelt appreciation for your sincerity and best wishes,” the notice further reads.

The Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees states that “public officials and employees shall not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties or in connection with any operation being regulated by, or any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office.”

Remulla assumed the post of Interior Secretary earlier this month. He replaced Benhur Abalos, who will run for senator in Eleksyon 2025. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/BM, GMA Integrated News