By Brian Campued
“Public office is a public trust.”
Government officials and employees are reminded time and again about the importance of accountability and integrity in public service, with the new rules issued by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) on the prohibition of gambling among public servants.
Under CSC Resolution No. 2600111, all officials and employees of the national government, local government units, autonomous regional governments, state and local universities and colleges, and government-owned or -controlled corporations with original charters are now officially banned from engaging in gambling activities, regardless of location or time.
The latest resolution, which was promulgated on Jan. 19, expands the Sept. 4, 2025 advisory of the CSC banning gambling inside or outside government premises only during work hours.
The resolution explicitly bars government personnel from entering or staying in casinos and similar establishments—whether land-based or sea-based, and even if these are legally operated.
“Mere presence in such venues shall likewise constitute a violation of this policy, except when in the performance of official duties duly authorized in writing by the head of agency or superior officer,” it said.
It also prohibits participation in online or electronic gambling, including online casinos, e-bingo, and e-sabong, as well as the promotion or facilitation of such activities.
“Regardless of whether the gambling platform is operated locally or internationally, this prohibition applies to participation during or outside official hours, whether through personal or government-issued devices,” the policy stated.
Participating, organizing, and facilitating in any other form of gambling, including “traditional, informal, private, social, cultural, or newly emerging,” are likewise forbidden.
On the other hand, activities conducted strictly for charitable, civic, or public welfare purposes will remain allowed, provided that participation does not create any appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest.
CSC Chairperson Marilyn Yap said that the resolution is anchored on the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees and aims to uphold public confidence in government institutions.
“Involvement in gambling may expose public servants to financial vulnerability and conflicts of interest, which can undermine impartiality and erode public trust,” Yap said.
“This prohibition reinforces the duty of all government personnel to consistently uphold integrity and professionalism in public service.”
Government agencies are likewise expected to ensure personnel’s compliance with the latest directive.
Violations may be reported, even anonymously, by government personnel or the public through the CSC’s Contact Center ng Bayan or other complaint channels.
Violators may face suspension or dismissal from service under the 2025 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service, and may also be subject to criminal or civil cases under existing laws.
The resolution was published in a newspaper on April 23 and is set to take effect after 15 days.
-jpv
