CSC warns gov’t employees against joining in political activities

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has warned that it will press sanctions on government employees who will take part in political activities.

CSC Commissioner Aileen Lizada cited Joint Circular 001, which was created by the CSC and the Commission on Elections in 2016 “to shield officers and employees of the civil service and the armed forces from the vagaries of politics.”

Those who will be caught guilty of engaging directly or indirectly in partisan political activities will be charged with the penalty of one month and one day suspension to six months for the first offense; and dismissal from the service for the second offense, according to the circular.

The penalty of dismissal is without prejudice to criminal or civil liability, and will carry with it cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification from holding public office, and bar from taking civil service examinations.

“Tayo po ay nasa gobyerno we have to focus on the efficient discharge of duties and functions. Let us leave the election season to the politicians,” Lizada said in an interview..

The 2022 general elections is set on May 9.