TACLOBAN CITY, Sept. 4 (PNA) – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) regional office in Eastern Visayas is reminding government workers not to engage in any partisan political activity prior to the 2016 national elections.
CSC Regional Director Victoria F. Esber said government workers are prohibited from contributing to the victory or defeat of any candidate.
Esber explained that under existing rules, engaging “directly or indirectly in partisan political activities by one holding non-political office” is classified as less grave offense.
“If found guilty, an employee will be suspended from one month and one day to six months for first offense. For second offense, an employee would face dismissal from service,” the CSC official said.
Prohibited activities include forming organizations, associations, clubs, committees or other groups of persons for the purpose of soliciting votes and/or undertaking any campaign for or against a candidate, holding political caucuses, conferences, meetings, rallies, parades or other similar assemblies for the purpose of soliciting votes and undertaking any election propaganda for or against a candidate.
Making speeches, announcements or commentaries, or holding interviews for or against the election of any candidate for public office, publishing or distributing campaign literature or materials designed to support or oppose the election of any candidate or directly or indirectly soliciting votes, pledges or support for or against any candidate are also unlawful.
“That is suicide when we identify ourselves with any politician. A government worker should be politically neutral,” Esber added.
The CSC advised the public to report any violation to the said rule. (PNA)
SCS/BNB/SARWELL Q. MENIANO