Jonvic Remulla Apologizes for Joking About Class and Work Suspensions Due to Bad Weather

Jonvic Remulla: “Ginawa kong mas magaan para hindi negative vibes”

JONVIC REMULLA – The Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued an apology on Wednesday after facing backlash for the humorous tone of his recent Facebook posts announcing class and work suspensions due to bad weather.

In an interview, Remulla clarified that he did not intend to downplay the public’s hardships. He explained that he was simply trying to lighten the mood during a difficult time. He said his natural communication style is playful, and he aimed to deliver serious news in a way that would feel less heavy or stressful. He added that if some misunderstood his intentions, he sincerely apologizes and hopes people can see that he meant no offense.

The criticism arose from posts published on the DILG’s official Facebook page. One message read, “Mga abangers, may inaabangan ba kayo? Mamaya na kain muna ko.” A follow-up post stated, “Mga abangers, sarap ng bogchi ko. Sa kabusugan ay nakaidlip nang sandali. Oh eto na inaabangan niyo!” These were meant to precede the official announcement of class and work suspensions caused by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat). However, many found the tone inappropriate given the gravity of the situation.

The timing of the posts heightened public concern, as several parts of the country were then facing severe weather conditions brought on by Tropical Cyclone Crising and the monsoon rains. The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported 12 fatalities—mostly from drowning and falling trees—in regions such as Calabarzon, the Negros Island Region, Metro Manila, Mimaropa, Northern Mindanao, and BARMM. In addition, nine individuals were reported missing and seven others injured.