As the May 12, 2025 midterm elections approach, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has reminded all government employees to keep their political opinions off social media during the campaign period—or face consequences.
In its latest directive, CSC’s Memorandum Circular No. 3-2025 emphasizes that even simple online gestures like “liking,” “sharing,” or commenting on political content may be considered as engaging in partisan political activity.
“Government officials and employees are further reminded to be prudent when using social media. Social media functions such as liking, comment[ing], sharing, re-posting, or following a candidate’s or party’s account are considered as partisan political activity,” the memo states.
The reminder, grounded in the 1987 Constitution and reinforced by various election-related laws, applies to all civil servants—from permanent and casual employees to contractual and temporary workers across all branches of government. This also includes members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and barangay officials.
The CSC clarified that political activities, whether done during or outside of office hours, and even beyond office premises, fall under the same restrictions.
“Given their nature, the prohibited activities may be committed not only during but also outside office hours for the duration of the campaign period. It may also be committed even outside office premises,” the memorandum read.
Violators will face suspension ranging from one to six months for a first offense, while repeat violations may result in outright dismissal from service.
