The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has imposed a temporary suspension on all applications for authority to travel abroad for personal reasons, affecting all officials and employees of the agency, as reported by RH Boy Gonzales.
In a memorandum dated August 19 and released Friday, Secretary Manuel Bonoan directed that the suspension take effect immediately and remain in force until November 30, 2025, unless lifted earlier or extended further.
The order was issued as the DPWH continues its validation of projects, particularly amid scrutiny over flood control initiatives.
According to Bonoan, only employees with urgent medical reasons for traveling abroad will be exempted from the restriction.
The suspension, he added, is consistent with Civil Service Commission rules which allow agencies to regulate personal travel when service exigencies and public interest demand it.
“Vacation leave is subject to the exigencies of the service. Travel authority for personal travel is discretionary and not automatic,” the memorandum read.
The agency is also the subject of a government-led lifestyle check on some of its officials as part of wider efforts to ensure integrity and accountability in public service.
The directive underscores the DPWH’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service.
All officials and employees have been instructed to strictly comply with the order.
