CSC warns gov't staff against partisan political activities

On Monday, March 17, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) reminded government employees to uphold political neutrality and refrain from participating in any partisan political activities ahead of the May 2025 elections.

The CSC cited Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2016, which prohibits government personnel from forming groups to solicit votes or campaign, holding political rallies or meetings for election campaigning, publishing or displaying campaign materials promoting or opposing a candidate, and using government resources for political purposes.

Government staff are also prohibited from providing financial or material contributions to candidates or political parties, wearing campaign-related attire unless authorized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), serving as watchers for a political party or a candidate, posting or sharing political content on social media during office hours, engaging in online arguments that could compromise public trust, and disclosing official government information without proper authorization.

Violations can result in severe penalties such as suspension ranging from one to six months for the first offense, and dismissal from service including loss of benefits and disqualification from future government employment for repeat offenses.

The guidelines apply to all government personnel, including those in state universities and colleges, uniformed members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police, and employees on leave.