SANTA ELENA, Camarines Norte — Vice President Sara Duterte reminded state workers that public service is a rare privilege, urging government officials to protect the people’s trust through dedication, faith, environmental stewardship, and love of country.
In a social media statement released Wednesday, September 30, Duterte shared that she attended the Civil Service Month gathering with the municipal government of Santa Elena, Camarines Norte, the previous week.
Addressing local civil servants, the Vice President emphasized the unique responsibility carried by public sector employees and urged them to remain mindful of their duties.
“Isaisip natin, na hindi lahat ay nabibigyan ng pribilehiyo na mapaglingkuran ang ating bansa,” Duterte stated. “Kaya naman, bilang mga kawani ng pamahalaan, tayo ay mapalad sa ipinagkaloob sa atin na tiwala.”
Duterte encouraged civil servants across the country to demonstrate accountability and deep compassion while prioritizing the welfare of the Filipino people and nature.
“Kung kaya’t maging tapat tayong mga lingkod-bayan—mga kawani na maka-Diyos, maka-tao, makakalikasan, at makabansa,” she urged.
Reflecting on the historical relevance of the occasion, Duterte pointed out that the annual event serves to recognize the foundational role of state workers in safeguarding democratic governance alongside the historic creation of the civil service body.
“Makabuluhan ang selebrasyon dahil hindi lamang nito ipinagdiriwang ang pagkakatatag ng Komisyon noong September 19, 1900, kundi maging ang dedikasyon, integridad, at kahusayan ng bawat lingkod-bayan, gayundin ang kanilang kontribusyon sa pagtatag ng isang demokratikong bansa,” she added.
Pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1050, series of 1997, Civil Service Month is commemorated every September.
The annual observance marks the establishment of the Philippine Civil Service system under Public Law No. 5 on September 19, 1900, with the Civil Service Commission celebrating its 126th anniversary in 2026.