Gov't employees reminded: No to partisan politics

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reminded government employees and barangay officials that they are not allowed to get involved in partisan politics.

A memo from the Comelec and the Civil Service Commission, issued on Tuesday (March 29), reminded government employees and barangay officials of this law.

"They're supposed to be neutral in the way that they provide services to their constituents. And they're not supposed to belong to any political parties. Bawal yan eh," said Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista.

Government employees and barangay officials can express their opinions and even say who they will vote for, but they are not allowed to campaign for or against any candidate.

On social media, they can like, repost, or comment on candidates’ post but they cannot persuade others to do so.

They should refrain from being seen with candidates campaigning and they must not wear or distribute propaganda materials. They are also prohibited from using government resources in any political campaign.

Violators will be suspended, dismissed from their jobs, or disqualified from working in the government.

Meanwhile, higher-level officials — from city councilor up to the president — are exempt from this law, along with their staff and cabinet officials. They are allowed to expressly support any candidate they wish.