CSC-7 reminds gov't workers to remain politically neutral

CEBU, Philippines — With the 2025 midterm elections season, the Civil Service Commission in Central Visayas (CSC-7) reminded government employees to remain politically neutral and refrain from engaging in partisan political activities.

CSC-7 Public Information Officer and Human Resource Specialist Prolaine Daclan said that civil servants must uphold their professional integrity by avoiding any form of political endorsement or opposition.

“We are career employees. Regardless of the political landscape, color, or temperature, we must refrain from campaigning for or against any political party or individual,” said Daclan.

While government employees retain their right to vote, beyond that, their participation in politics is strictly regulated, she said.

Public servants are prohibited from attending rallies, joining campaign activities, or even wearing accessories that promote or oppose a political candidate.

Daclan also warned the responsible conduct of social media activity. While civil servants may express opinions on political issues, however, actively endorsing or criticizing candidates online may be considered partisan activity.

Daclan said that political neutrality is essential to maintaining public trust in the civil service.

"We really have to be clear nga kitang empleyado sa gobyerno, we are career employees," she said.

The prohibition is backed by multiple legal frameworks, including Republic Act 6713, also known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. This law mandates that government workers remain impartial to political activity to ensure fairness and professionalism in governance.

Further reinforcing these restrictions is Joint Circular 1, Series of 2016, issued by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the CSC, which explicitly outlines that government officials and employees are prohibited from using their positions to favor any candidate or political party.

Additionally, Republic Act 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, and Executive Order 292, the Administrative Code of 1987, uphold the principle of non-partisanship among government employees.

Violations of these regulations carry severe consequences.

A first offense can result in suspension for one month and one day to six months. Meanwhile second offense could lead to dismissal from service, including the loss of benefits and disqualification from future government employment.

Daclan clarified that the CSC is not a policing body but ensures due process in administrative cases.

Complaints must be formally filed before the commission can take action.

The CSC-7 further reminded civil servants that neutrality is not just a requirement but a duty.

 "We are all Filipinos. We want to be engage but unfortunately considering na we are government employees, we are not really part of the political activities," Daclan added.