No lavish Christmas parties for gov’t agencies

Government agencies have been told to keep their Christmas parties and year-end celebrations modest, with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) reminding public offices to exercise caution when spending government funds on festivities, giveaways and employee gifts.

In Circular Letter No. 2026-15 dated November 9, the DBM called on agencies to observe the “judicious and prudent use of government funds” for their 2026 year-end gatherings and similar activities.

The reminder also covers purchases of raffle prizes, gift and grocery baskets, shirts, jackets and other tokens or giveaways intended for government officials, employees and agency clients.

The DBM cited the country’s current economic challenges, including the disruption in energy supply that prompted Malacañang to declare a State of National Emergency through Executive Order No. 110. It also pointed to the El Niño phenomenon, which is projected to persist through the first half of 2027.

The agency encouraged public offices to keep their year-end activities simple and modest while allowing employees to build workplace camaraderie.

It also reminded agency heads that they are responsible for ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations on the proper use of government funds.

The circular does not prohibit Christmas parties or giveaways but emphasizes that public money must be spent prudently, particularly amid the country’s current economic challenges.