MANILA – Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson has expressed full support for the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) move to remove the names and images of public officials from government projects.

Lacson said “epal” billboards featuring the names and faces of politicians have no place in public service and may even suggest overpricing, not only for the projects but also for the promotional materials.

“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 post on X, referring to the DILG order.

Under Memorandum Circular 2026-006 issued on January 29, the DILG prohibited the display of the “name, image and likeness” of public officials on government projects. The circular bans the use of officials’ names, pictures, mottos, logos, color motifs, initials, or any symbol associated with them on government signboards and materials, and called for the immediate removal of existing items violating the order.

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

Lacson has also addressed political “epal” in the national budget, advocating for safeguards in 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 said.