The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced the appointment of a former mayor of Iloilo City as DILG undersecretary for public safety.
The appointment of former Iloilo City mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog marks his return to government service years after he was removed from office and later granted executive clemency.
DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla welcomed Mabilog’s appointment, saying his background in local governance would benefit the department.
“His experience in local government will be a valuable asset in the department,” Remulla said.
“Furthermore, the injustice he went through will fuel his desire to level the playing field in local governance,” he added.
Mabilog took his oath before him at around 9:30 am Wednesday.
Asked about his initial instructions to the new undersecretary, Remulla said Mabilog should first be given time to settle into his post.
“It’s his first day. Let him adjust and prepare,” Remulla said.
Mabilog left the country during the Duterte administration after he was publicly linked to the illegal drug trade. He returned to the Philippines in 2024.
In 2017, the Office of the Ombudsman dismissed Mabilog from government service over an administrative case involving alleged violation of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The penalty also carried perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
In January 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. granted Mabilog executive clemency in connection with the administrative case, effectively lifting the penalties imposed against him and clearing the way for his return to public service.