Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In the thick of heavy monsoon rains and flood advisories, one announcement cut through the downpour—not with urgency, but with unexpected flair. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, once known for his laid-back tone as Cavite governor, found himself at the center of a digital firestorm after announcing the suspension of classes and government work with a post that many say missed the mark.
"Mga Abangers, Sarap ng bogchi ko. Sa kabusugan ay naka-idlip nang sandali. Oh eto na inaabangan ninyo!" began the art card posted on his social media account. It was meant to humorously build anticipation before revealing the actual list of areas where classes and work were suspended due to torrential rain and flooding. But what was likely intended as a light-hearted message quickly sparked backlash from netizens who expected sobriety during a time of public concern.
Actor and social media personality Jake Ejercito didn’t mince words. “There’s a time and place for trying to be funny—this isn’t one of them,” he wrote, echoing the sentiment of many who felt Remulla’s tone lacked the seriousness expected of a national official responding to a weather emergency that left commuters stranded, streets submerged, and communities reeling.
The Cavitean Playbook on the National Stage
This isn’t the first time Jonvic Remulla has used an informal and conversational style to communicate official matters. As Cavite governor, he became somewhat known for his “relatable” online posts—peppered with slang, emojis, and colloquialisms—especially when declaring class suspensions. It was a style that earned him both fans and critics, but it resonated with his constituents.
But now, as a Cabinet Secretary with nationwide jurisdiction and heightened responsibility, his tone is being held to a different standard. His critics argue that what may have been acceptable in a provincial context can feel dismissive or tone-deaf when adopted on the national level, especially during natural calamities.
A Post and a Proposal: Centralizing Class Suspension Powers
Ironically, the controversial announcement comes at a time when Remulla is pushing for the centralization of authority to suspend classes—a move that would place such decisions under the DILG's domain rather than being left to individual local government units.
The Department of Education (DepEd), however, was quick to counter the idea. In a public statement on July 21, they firmly maintained that class suspension decisions should remain a localized prerogative. The logic: local government executives are in the best position to assess weather conditions on the ground and respond accordingly.
In this brewing tug-of-war, the art card post only added fuel to the fire. For observers, it raised a pointed question: If the DILG is to be granted power to suspend classes nationwide, shouldn't it demonstrate communication that is prompt, clear, and appropriately solemn?
The Politics of Presentation
Communication from public officials during a crisis isn't just about relaying facts—it's about leadership, tone, and trust. Remulla’s choice of words may seem like a minor social media blunder to some, but to others, it underscores a deeper concern: the seeming trivialization of a situation that disrupts millions of lives.
"Class suspensions aren't just about giving students a break," said one X (formerly Twitter) user. "It’s about safeguarding lives. We want certainty, not comedy.”
Supporters, on the other hand, argue that Remulla’s style is simply an effort to connect with the youth and be more relatable. They claim his personality brings a refreshing break from the typically rigid tone of bureaucracy. “At least he’s not robotic. He talks like a human being,” one comment read.
Bigger Than a Meme
In the age of virality and algorithm-driven relevance, it's easy to forget that public service isn't a popularity contest. The Remulla art card episode is a cautionary tale of how the medium can overshadow the message—especially when lives are potentially at risk.
As rains continue to batter large parts of Luzon, what citizens need is timely and clear information—not riddles wrapped in slang. The future of Remulla’s centralized suspension proposal may hinge not just on bureaucratic processes, but on public trust—something far more delicate than a cleverly crafted meme.
And while Jonvic Remulla may have idlipped sa kabusugan, the public’s hunger is not for wit—but for wisdom in leadership.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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