DILG Requires LGU’s to Coordinate with PH Embassy for International Sister-City Partnerships

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged all local government units (LGUs) to strictly coordinate with Philippine embassies, consulates, or missions when entering into international sister-city or town twinning agreements, warning against engagements that may be construed as unauthorized diplomacy.

“This policy ensures that international engagements of LGUs are legitimate, and to prevent such activities from being perceived as unauthorized diplomacy. We want to make sure that everything is in accordance with the Foreign Service and diplomatic functions of the Republic,” the DILG said in Memorandum Circular No. 2026-004.

The Circular provides additional guidelines in the implementation of international sister-city agreements to ensure that they adhere to applicable laws, rules and regulations of the Philippines.

Under the directive, LGUs with upcoming international sister-city or town-twinning activities, meetings, negotiations, or MOA signings, whether to be conducted physically or virtually, must formally coordinate with the concerned Philippine Embassy, Consulate, or Mission that has jurisdiction over the sister city’s country.

Coordination must be made at least seven days before the activity and should include the proposed itinerary, agenda, list of participants, and, when applicable, a draft MOA. The requirement applies even when travel is classified as personal or non-official, provided LGU-to-LGU engagement is included in the trip.

“All international sister-city activities conducted abroad must be acknowledged by the appropriate Philippine diplomatic post,” the Department emphasized, noting that this is necessary to ensure compliance with foreign service protocols and documentation standards.

The circular also mandates LGUs to designate their Local Government Relations Unit (LGRU) or equivalent office to handle coordination and maintain official records of communications with diplomatic posts. Proof of prior coordination must be submitted as part of applications for Foreign Travel Authority (FTA).

Sister-city agreements are recognized under the 1987 Constitution and the Local Government Code of 1991, which grant LGUs the authority to enter into partnerships for mutual benefit. However, the DILG stressed that such authority must be exercised responsibly.

“The goal is not to restrict international cooperation, but to professionalize and safeguard it,” the DILG said. “Proper coordination protects both the LGUs and the national interest.”

The memorandum applies to all provinces, cities, and municipalities with existing or planned international sister-city or town twinning partnerships.

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