MANILA—Any complaints against erring government officials?

The Department of the Interior and Local Government has launched its new text helpline 2299, which the public can use to seek assistance or information from the department and its attached agencies, Interior Secretary Jesse M. Robredo said.

Robredo said the new text number 2299, which replaces 2256, is the DILG’s latest effort to reach out and receive complaints, queries, or comments about 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 9251135 or 9250343,” Robredo said.

“You can also email us at dilgmail@dilg.gov.ph,” he added.

Robredo said that initially, the text messaging system operates within office hours or from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on a weekday.

He said the public may still send text messages beyond office hours. Messages received beyond office hours will be processed 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 10 minutes.

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.

The DILG Secretary 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.