CSC warns gov’t execs against electioneering

The Civil Service Commission Friday warned government officials and employees against engaging in political activities during the election period or risk facing severe disciplinary action.

Public servants found guilty of engaging directly or indirectly in partisan political activities will be meted suspension from one month and one day to six months for the first offense.

For a second offense, the CSC said the penalty would be dismissal from government service.

CSC Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala said government officials and employees should maintain political neutrality during the election season.

Acting in partnership with the Commission on Elections, the CSC said violators would face administrative sanctions if they take sides.

“No officer or employee in the civil service, as well as any member of the military, shall engage, directly or indirectly, in any electioneering or partisan political activity, except to vote,” she stressed, quoting the 1987 Constitution.

“Civil servants are mandated by law to uphold political neutrality in the conduct of our duties even during election season,” she added.

The CSC and Comelec issued Joint Circular No. 001 series of 2016 to remind civil servants of their sworn duty to uphold the Constitution and remain neutral.

However, both agencies noted the provision does not preclude a civil servant from expressing his or her views on current political problems or issues, or from mentioning the names of candidates whom he or she supports, according to the Administrative Code of 1987.

The joint circular also clarified that “social media functions such as liking, commenting, sharing, re-posting, or following a candidate’s or party’s account,” unless meant to solicit support for or against a candidate or party during the campaign period is allowed.

The CSC and Comelec said the prohibition covers all members of the civil service in all branches, subdivisions, instrumentalities, and agencies of the government, including government-owned or controlled corporations with original charters, and state universities and colleges.

Uniformed and active members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are also covered by the prohibition.