DILG releases helpline number for complaints on govt projects

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a new text helpline number — 2299 (replacing the old number 2256) — to accommodate complaints, queries or comments on the DILG's programs and projects. “Aside from this text helpline, of course, the public can still personally visit the DILG-Public Assistance Center at the central office or call us at 925-1135 or 925-0343," said Robredo, in an article posted on the government portal. He said the public can also still call the DILG hotline at 117, or email it at dilgmail@dilg.gov.ph. However, Robredo admitted the text messaging system will not be free and will have limited operating hours. For now, he said the hotline operates within office hours or from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Messages received beyond office hours shall be dealt with on the next working day. “As of now, we are still perfecting the system but we have plans of making this a 24/7 operation," he said. Trained duty and action officers from the DILG’s Public Assistance Center, who monitor the system, should respond to the texters through text or call within a window period of 10 minutes. On the other hand, the DILG said the text messaging service system charges a minimal amount of P2.50 per text message of 160 characters. To send messages to the department, simply text DILG space NAME (optional) space MESSAGE to 2299. Robredo urged the public to save the new number in their telephone directories in case they need the assistance of the department. “However, in case of emergency, please call our emergency hotline number 117," he said. - VVP, GMA News