The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has officially enacted a comprehensive nationwide prohibition on all forms of gambling for government officials and employees, emphasizing that the ban applies at all times and across all platforms.
Under CSC Resolution No. 2600111, public personnel are strictly forbidden from entering or remaining in casinos and similar gaming establishments, both within the Philippines and abroad.
The only exception applies to those performing officially authorized duties, provided they possess a formal written clearance.
The commission clarified that the physical act of being in such a venue is enough to trigger disciplinary action:
“Mere presence in such venues shall likewise constitute a violation of this policy.”
Scope and Digital Prohibitions
The policy specifically addresses modern gaming trends by extending the ban to online and electronic gambling. This restriction remains in effect regardless of whether the individual uses a personal device or government-issued equipment.
Furthermore, the CSC warned against any form of endorsement of these activities:
“Promoting, or facilitating such online gambling activities shall also be considered a violation of this policy.”
Professional Integrity and Accountability
In its resolution, the CSC highlighted the constitutional mandate requiring public servants to remain accountable to the citizenry at all times.
The commission noted that the private behavior of a civil servant is inseparable from their professional reputation:
“The conduct and behavior of government officials and employees, both within and outside the workplace, directly reflect the integrity and credibility of public institutions.”
Coverage and Penalties
The rule is universal across the public sector, covering:
- National government agencies
- Local government units (LGUs)
- State universities and colleges (SUCs)
- Government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs)
While gambling is a legal activity for the general public in the Philippines, the CSC maintained that government workers are held to a higher ethical standard.
Violations will be classified as administrative offenses, including misconduct or conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. Beyond administrative sanctions, offenders may also face criminal or civil liabilities under existing laws.
The resolution takes effect 15 days following its publication this past Thursday.