Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla responded to public backlash over a recent social media post that some netizens found too casual amid stormy weather conditions.
The DILG drew criticism online after it posted an advisory on Tuesday announcing class and work suspensions, which began with the statement: it had “dozed off for a bit after being too full from a good meal.” The post came at a time when parts of the country were reeling from the effects of the southwest monsoon or habagat.
Some social media users called the tone inappropriate and insensitive, given the seriousness of the weather situation.
In an interview with DZMM on Wednesday, Remulla clarified he meant no harm and pointed to his history of communication while serving as Cavite governor.
“They understood me in Cavite. I hope they understand me, too. I have no intention to offend anybody,” he said in Filipino.
He also offered a conditional apology: “If I have to apologize for hurting their sensibilities, then I do offer it. But I will not change who I am, and I will always try to be my best, especially as a point of information that we need to disseminate.”
Remulla emphasized that he was not promoting bad behavior. “I’m not teaching the wrong things. I’m not cursing. I’m not belittling anyone. That’s just the way people speak in Cavite. That’s just the way I speak,” he said.
As of Monday, the Presidential Communications Office confirmed that Remulla has been designated to announce class suspensions on behalf of the Cabinet and Malacañang.
