QUEZON CITY (PIA) — As the nation gears up for the National and Local Elections on May 12, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) reiterated its call for government employees to be neutral and avoid engaging in partisan political activities.
In an advisory issued in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the CSC emphasized adherence to the prohibitions outlined in Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2016, which strictly limits electioneering and partisan acts among civil servants.
Government employees are barred from forming or joining campaign groups, attending political rallies, distributing campaign materials, or soliciting votes. Furthermore, the use of government resources—such as office time, personnel, and equipment—for political purposes is prohibited. Employees are also cautioned against providing financial support to political parties, serving as election watchers, or wearing campaign-related apparel unless explicitly authorized by Comelec.
This directive extends to all personnel in government agencies, including those working for government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and uniformed services like the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). Notably, these restrictions apply to employees on leave, ensuring that public servants maintain political neutrality at all times.
Acknowledging the increasing impact of social media, the CSC highlighted the importance of responsible online conduct.
CSC Public Assistance and Information Office Director Fiaberna Salumbides clarified that civil servants can use social media or express their views online, provided they do not engage in partisan political activities.
“The CSC does not prohibit civil servants from using social media in their personal capacity. In fact, they are encouraged to participate in social media to enhance their knowledge and contribute to meaningful discussion,” Salumbides said.
However, she reiterated that engaging directly or indirectly in partisan political activities is a violation of the law.
They may express their views on political issues, and interact with candidates’ accounts, as long as it isn’t soliciting support for or against a candidate or party during the campaign period.
To reinforce compliance, the CSC continues to educate public servants on their responsibilities during the election season. Director Leo Jamorin reminded government employees to be conscious of their limitations, especially during the campaign period.
“The key message is that civil servants can discuss political issues and express opinions in their personal capacity but cannot engage in partisan political activities or use their position to influence others,” Jamorin said.
He clarified that restrictions are in effect only during the official campaign period, which for national candidates began on February 11, 2025, and for local candidates will begin on March 28, 2025.
When asked about compliance monitoring, Jamorin explained that while the CSC does not conduct mass surveillance, it acts on credible reports or formal complaints of violations.
“While the CSC does not conduct blanket surveillance of social media accounts and activities of the more than two million civil servants nationwide, it may coordinate cases brought to its attention, especially if there are formal complaints or credible reports of violations,” he said.
Employees witnessing violations—such as colleagues campaigning for candidates or misusing government resources—are encouraged to report incidents to their agency’s Human Resource Office, the COMELEC, or the Contact Center ng Bayan.
“Reports should be supported by evidence, such as screenshots or documentation, to help in the proper investigation and resolution of the case,” Jamorin stressed.
Under the 2017 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service (RACCS), government employees engaging in partisan political activities may face administrative sanctions, including suspension or dismissal from service for repeat offenses.
“Engaging directly or indirectly in partisan political activities is a less grave offense punishable by suspension for the first offense and dismissal from service for the second offense,” Jamorin warned, emphasizing accountability within public service.
As the campaign season approaches, the CSC urges all government employees to remain professional and neutral, ensuring the integrity of public service is upheld. Employees are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the rules and act responsibly, both online and offline, to promote fair and credible elections.
For more information, government employees can visit the official CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph or contact the nearest CSC office. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
