Jonvic Remulla has officially assumed the role of Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), following his appointment by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on October 8, 2024. After 29 years in the Provincial Government of Cavite, including 11 and a half years as governor, Remulla is stepping up to take on a national role, bringing with him a wealth of experience in local governance. In his farewell message to Caviteños, Remulla expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve and highlighted his achievements in the province, including Cavite’s status as the most business-friendly province in the country, its high home ownership rates, and the advancements in education, health, and infrastructure.
Remulla’s appointment comes after the resignation of former DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., who left the post to run for a Senate seat in the 2025 elections. As the new DILG chief, Remulla has pledged to continue his advocacy for empowering local governments and strengthening the Philippine National Police (PNP). His priorities include promoting a merit-based system within the police force, free from political favoritism. “I want to remove the politics from the PNP,” he said, emphasizing the need for structural reforms and a more efficient organizational structure.
Among his immediate tasks is the closure of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country, including one previously owned by his family. Remulla has vowed to personally oversee the shutdown of these establishments, signaling his commitment to eradicating illegal operations. “I will get all the list of POGOs and I will personally lock them down one by one,” he stated firmly.
The PNP has expressed its full support for Remulla’s leadership, with spokesperson BGen. Jean Fajardo affirming that his extensive experience as a local chief executive will be invaluable in his new role. His leadership is expected to have a significant impact on both law enforcement and local governance across the Philippines.
Remulla also highlighted his dedication to building consensus and empowering communities, principles he has long advocated for. As he takes on this new challenge, he called for prayers and support, stating that his success will be a shared victory for every Filipino. In his farewell address to Caviteños, Remulla left the door open for a potential return to provincial service, saying, “If I ever come back, I hope you will welcome me once again.”
In addition to his new role, Remulla joins his brother, Jesus Crispin Remulla, who is currently serving as the Secretary of Justice, in the Marcos administration’s cabinet. Together, the Remulla brothers aim to make a substantial impact on the country’s governance, particularly in areas of justice, law enforcement, and local government reform.
PHOTO CREDIT: Jonvic Remulla, PTV Network
