CSC bars dual citizens from all government posts

MANILA, Philippines - Filipinos with dual citizenship status are now barred from working in the government, whether through election or appointment and regardless of position.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has issued a memorandum circular directing all government offices from constitutional bodies all the way to local government units  and state-owned colleges and universities to clear their agencies of dual citizens.

Those found to be already working for the government despite being dual citizens have six months to pledge allegiance to the Philippines and renounce their foreign citizenship or they will lose their jobs.

The memorandum circular signed by CSC Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala dated Sept. 15 was based on an Aug. 11 resolution approved by Commissioners Robert Martinez and Dolores Bonifacio.

 The CSC said the new policy was issued after the agency learned that Republic Act 9225, the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003, is being applied to elective positions only.

Records show that despite the enactment of the law in 2003, there are no cases filed against dual citizens appointed to government service.

The CSC said there are also no monitoring mechanisms installed to identify government officials and employees with dual citizenships.

And since the agency has received queries and clarifications on the issue, it has decided to issue a policy or rule that will “put things in proper perspective.”