Mandaue City government workers reminded not to take political sides

CEBU, Philippines —  The Mandaue City government is reminding regular City Hall employees not to engage in partisan political activities.

In an interview yesterday, city administrator Jamaal James Calipayan said that City Hall employees, especially those under the Civil Service Commission (CSC), must uphold the memorandum ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

“Sa atoang mga employees especially katong mga dili exempted, to not engage in partisan political activities,” said Calipayan.

He explained that the memorandum doesn’t necessarily prohibit employees from showing support, but it serves as a reminder to comply with the rules.

“Whether we support or not, that is a policy of the Civil Service Commission, so comply lang," he said.

The CSC memorandum reminds government employees to maintain political neutrality and avoid participating in partisan political activities ahead of the midterm elections.

It can be recalled that the CSC reiterated its directive, reminding all government employees, including local government workers, to remain politically neutral and refrain from partisan political activity during the election period.

Political impartiality among government employees is also mandated under Republic Act 6713, also known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which seeks to prevent the misuse of public office for political gain.

On the other hand, Calipayan said that it would be fitting to also clarify the CSC directive regarding social media activity, where it was stated that reacting or commenting on political posts on social media could be grounds for an administrative case.

“I think that is gray area which needs to be clarified,” Calipayan added.

He said that if someone files a petition before the Supreme Court to seek clarification, it would be better for the high court to make a ruling.

“Especially sa social media nga aspect,” said Calipayan.

He said that the prohibition on engaging in partisan political activity for regular employees is already established law, but in the context of social media, it is still considered a new ground.

Calipayan noted that although reactions on social media, especially on Facebook--such as likes, hearts, laughter, and crying or angry emojis-- may be “small intricacies” and open to various interpretations, they still need to be understood carefully.

“Unsa may meaning ana, I think Supreme Court ra g'yud ang makatubag ana niya nga maka-clarify ana,” said Calipayan. (CEBU NEWS)