The Civil Service Commission (CSC) clarified that employees of both local and national government agencies are not prohibited from joining the protest, as it is their constitutional right.

In an interview on DZRH’s Special on Saturday, CSC Assistant Commissioner Ariel Ronquillo explained that government employees have the right to participate in protests and express their views, such as in the upcoming mass protest this September 21. He emphasized that they are free to voice their concerns, particularly on issues they disagree with involving the current administration or the country’s current situation.

However, Ronquillo also noted that as public servants, government employees are expected to observe certain limitations, especially when actions may reflect negatively on the image of the government.

“If you will also share the freedom of expression, e dapat hindi ka maninira ng kahit ano mang istraktura na madadaanan mo habang ikaw ay nagpapahayag ng iyong damdamin,” he said, reminding protesters to exercise their rights responsibly and respectfully.

“Hindi ka rin dapat mai-involve sa anumang sitwasyon na mananakit ka ng kapwa, lalabag ka sa batas, yuyurakan mo yung pagkatao o dangal ng kahit sinuman,” the assistant commissioner reminded public employees to exercise their rights within legal and ethical boundaries, as government workers should not engage in any violent acts, violate laws, or disrespect the dignity of others while participating in protests or expressing their views.

He emphasized that while the right to free expression is protected, it has limits—especially for those serving in government, “Dahil yung page-exercise po ng ating karapatan, may mga hangganan po ‘yan.”

“Kapag po tayo ay lalabag na sa batas o kaya maninira, hindi po magandang asal ‘yan ng isang nagtatrabaho sa pamahalaan,” he said.

He further stated that even if a government employee joins a protest during their day off, such as on a Sunday, it may still be considered an ‘administrative offense’ if their actions are deemed “conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.” He emphasized that, regardless of the day or circumstance, public servants carry the image of the government with them at all times and are therefore expected to act in a manner that upholds its integrity.

He reminded that government employees should avoid actions that could damage the public’s perception of their professionalism and the government’s image. While they have the right to exercise their constitutional freedoms, they must do so responsibly by respecting legal boundaries and maintaining the standards expected of public servants.