The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued an order reminding officials and employees to practice and observe highest form of professionalism.
Under DepEd Order no. 49 dated Nov. 2 but released only Friday, DepEd laid guidelines for officials and employees to “further strengthen professionalism within the department and integrate it in all areas of work and practices.”
The education department amended the previously issued DO 46 and provided a new section containing several provisions of the Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
One of the new guidelines has directed teachers to avoid having ”relationships, interaction, and communication” with students particularly on social media and outside of the school premises, except if they are relatives.
It also instructed that they should refrain from ”engaging in any activity or any relationship that may impair one's ability in making objective decisions in the performance of his/her job functions.”
Other guidelines stated in the order include:
- Treat and approach DepEd colleagues, employees, learners, and stakeholders with the highest degree of professionalism, skill, excellence
- Respect the rights of others and refrain from doing any act that is contrary to law, good morals, good customs, public policy, public order, public safety, and public interest
- Serve and perform one's duties in a prompt, courteous, and fair manner
- Desist from any act that may compromise one's integrity as a government employee and that may compromise the honor of the DepEd.
Apart from this, DepEd instructed employees to be responsible on social media by being cautious when sharing posts or other content and not to participate in the spreading of rumors and false information.
Likewise, they are told to not ”unduly post online attacks” against fellow DepEd employees and rather ”utilize legal and human resource mediation procedures.”
Furthermore, teachers are asked not to ”disparage DepEd and must always be mindful of the reputation and honor of the organization.”
The order was issued two days after face-to-face classes began in public schools.
