SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — The Civil Service Commission (CSC) urges aspiring government workers to prepare early for the 2025 Civil Service Examination (CSE) as it announced the official exam schedules and modernization initiatives.
It said that the first Pen and Paper Test (PPT) will be on March 2, 2025; while the second round is scheduled for August 11, 2025.
The announcement was made during the Kapihan sa Ilocos with CSC Region 1 on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2025, where officials discussed examination preparations, digitalization efforts, and alternative eligibility programs for government workers.
CSC Regional Director Hedy Jose Lardizabal encouraged examinees to start their preparation as early as possible.
“We encourage all aspiring government workers to take this opportunity seriously. The civil service examination is not just a requirement—it is a gateway to public service and a chance to contribute to the country,” he said.
Likewise, he advised applicants to familiarize themselves with the exam scope and structure, develop time management skills, and practice answering sample test questions to improve their chances of passing.
Thousands expected to take exams in Region 1
CSC Region 1 has designated multiple testing centers across Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan to accommodate the expected number of examinees.
- Ilocos Norte: 2,200 examinees at Ilocos Norte National High School and Ilocos Norte College of Arts and Trades;
- Ilocos Sur: 1,735 examinees at Ilocos Sur National High School (Vigan) and 1,402 examinees at Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (Candon);
- La Union: 3,712 examinees in three testing sites, including La Union National High School; and
- Pangasinan: 4,255 in Lingayen and 3,262 in Eastern Pangasinan, assigned to Pangasinan National High School, Pangasinan State University, Urdaneta City National High School, and Urdaneta City University.
In total, 16,566 examinees will take the March 2025 CSE, including 14,374 professional-level and 2,192 sub-professional-level candidates.
Shift to digital examination
The CSC is working on a Digital Examination system to replace the Pen and Paper Test (PPT) and improve the examination process.
CSC Regional Director Hedy Jose Lardizabal highlighted the goal of shifting to a digital format.
“We are transitioning to a more efficient and technology-driven process to improve accessibility and convenience for examinees,” he said.
CSC officials assured that technical infrastructure, particularly stable internet connectivity, is being assessed to ensure the smooth implementation of the digital examination.
Application process and reminders
The application period for the March 2025 CSE is already closed. CSC advised those interested in the August 2025 exam to monitor its website and social media pages for updates on filing dates and requirements.
For further details on the CSE, Digital Examination, or Eligibility Grant, applicants may visit the nearest CSC field office in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, or Pangasinan. (CCMT/AIHR, PIA Region 1)
