The Civil Service Commission (CSC) prescribed the Revised Dress Code for government workers when performing official duties, whether on or off government premises.
The new rules are said to address emerging social issues like gender equality, disability inclusion, and social diversity.
The Revised Dress Code prescribes that government officials and employees must wear ASEAN-inspired attire or clothing influenced by the traditional garments of ASEAN member states, including the Philippines. They may likewise wear Filipiniana-inspired outfits reflecting Filipino culture and agency-prescribed office uniforms.
The official attire must be in accordance with the following schedule: ASEAN-inspired clothing on the first Monday of the month; Filipiniana-inspired clothing from second to fourth Mondays of the month; agency-prescribed office uniform from Tuesday to Friday and on weekends; and smart casual attire on days without agency-prescribed uniform.
Government agencies are mandated to prescribe suitable agency uniforms.
Meanwhile, Philippine Tropical Fabrics must be used for the set of uniforms or a part thereof, not as a mere clothing embellishment or adornment.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must also be provided for employees exposed to occupational hazards.
Officials and employees may opt to wear the agency-prescribed uniform that aligns with their gender preferences, identity, and expression.
The CSC likewise reminded stakeholders that the Anti-Red Tape Act Identification card must be worn during office hours or on official duty as it forms part of the agency-prescribed office uniform.
As for grooming requirements like hairstyle, haircut, or hair color, these may only be mandated if they are necessary for safety, professionalism, uniformity, branding, or client preferences.
The CSC reiterated that government workers cannot wear the following during official functions, including virtual: collarless t-shirts, plunging necklines, sleeveless tops, sando/tank tops, tube tops, halters, strapless or spaghetti-strap blouses (unless as undershirts), leggings, above-the-knee skirts, shorts, cycling or jogging pants (except during physical activities), ripped jeans, sandals, slippers, or exposed-toe shoes, and excessive jewelry or heavy makeup, among others.
However, exemptions may be granted based on job type, such as for uniformed personnel, medical professionals, and laboratory technicians, as well as for employees with religious beliefs, physical disabilities, or health conditions; pregnant; or those in mourning.
