MANILA, Philippines — The Civil Service Commission (CSC) on Thursday reiterated that government employees can engage with election-related content on social media, but they must refrain from soliciting support for or against any candidate or political party during the campaign period.

Under CSC Memorandum Circular No. 3, s. 2025, government employees are allowed to like, share, comment on, or repost election-related posts, provided these actions do not request votes or endorsements for any candidate. 

The CSC emphasized the importance of political neutrality, urging employees to avoid partisan political activities while engaging online.

According to the commission, the advisory reinforces the guidelines set forth in the 1987 Constitution, emphasizing the need for public servants to maintain professionalism in both their online and offline interactions. The reminder is part of a broader push to ensure that government employees do not engage in activities that could be perceived as endorsing political candidates during the election season.

Prohibited activities

The CSC’s March statement further reminded government employees to refrain from activities such as forming groups to campaign for candidates, holding political rallies, making speeches to support or oppose a candidate, or distributing campaign materials.

The advisory also prohibits government employees from using government resources for political purposes, including financial contributions to candidates or parties, or wearing campaign-related apparel without COMELEC authorization. Furthermore, employees are not allowed to serve as political watchers unless permitted by the Commission on Elections.

Coverage, sanctions

The prohibitions apply to all government employees, regardless of appointment status. This includes employees from all government agencies, government-owned corporations, and state universities. Even those on leave of absence and personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are subject to these rules.

Employees who violate these restrictions face administrative sanctions. A first offense can result in suspension from one month and one day to six months, while a second offense may lead to dismissal from service, along with loss of benefits and disqualification from future government employment.

The CSC also reminded employees to use social media responsibly. Government employees are advised to avoid posting or commenting on political content, engaging in political discussions, or using government-issued devices for political activities.

The Commission also cautioned against disclosing official government information without proper authorization.