LACSON BACKS REMOVAL OF ‘EPAL’ BILLBOARDS’ FROM PUBLIC PROJECTS

SENATE President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson has thrown his unequivocal support behind the Department of  the Interior and Local Government (DILG)’s move to remove the names and images of public officials from public projects.

Lacson pointed out that “epal” billboards featuring the names and faces of politicians have no place in public service and may even hint at overpricing – not just for the projects themselves but also for the billboards promoting them.

“This one I like and support unequivocally. While surely, there are no ghost billboards, most likely the ‘epal’ billboards are as overpriced as the projects,”Lacson said.

In a memorandum circular 2026-006 dated Jan. 29, the DILG prohibited the display and/or affixture of the “name, image and likeness” of public officials on government projects.

The order prohibits the display of the name, picture, image, motto, logo, color motif, initials “or other symbol or graphic representation associated with any public official” on government projects and signboards.

Also, it directed the immediate removal of existing signages, tarpaulins, markers or materials violating the circular.

“Government programs are not personal billboards. These are funded by taxpayers and must reflect public service, not political credit grabbing,” it added.

Lacson has likewise cracked down on political “epal” by pushing for clear and foolproof safeguards in what is now the 2026 budget, to prevent abuse and political patronage.

“The national budget must not be a political tool or spoils for those in power. We deserve a budget that truly serves the people, free from political exploitation. While we have made headway, the path forward remains extensive,” he stressed.