The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has reminded government officials and employees to refrain from engaging in partisan political activities during the campaign period leading up to the May elections.
This includes online actions such as liking, commenting on, sharing, reposting, or following the social media accounts of candidates or political parties if these actions are intended to solicit support or opposition.
In Memorandum Circular 3-2025, the CSC cites the 1987 Constitution, the Administrative Code of 1987, the Omnibus Election Code, and the Local Government Code as the legal basis for this prohibition.
The CSC emphasizes that these restrictions apply not only during office hours and within office premises but also extend to activities conducted outside of work hours for the entire duration of the campaign period.
House Assistant Majority Leader Rep. Jude Acidre meanwhile called for urgent action against the misuse of social media by online personalities spreading disinformation and harmful content under the guise of “freedom of speech.”
His statement followed a House Tri-Comm hearing highlighting the unchecked proliferation of such behavior.
Acidre expressed alarm over the “dangerous distortion” of free speech, noting that some influencers believe they can say anything without consequence, disregarding basic decency and responsibility.
Acidre emphasized that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it is not absolute. He argued that this right should not infringe upon others’ rights to dignity, truth, and peace, questioning why ethical standards applied to traditional media are not enforced on social media platforms. He pointed out that social media, intended for connection and information sharing, is being misused to divide, attack, and mislead, with influencers using their platforms to spread lies and hate.
During the hearing, lawmakers and stakeholders noted a widespread belief among social media users that freedom of speech equates to impunity. Acidre stressed the need to correct this misconception, advocating for clear and fair rules to enforce responsible digital behavior and protect individuals’ rights and dignity. He urged social media platforms to consistently enforce their community standards, holding those who spread harmful content accountable.
Acidre warned of the broader societal consequences if disinformation and digital toxicity are allowed to thrive, highlighting the potential for social media to divide rather than unite. He reminded the public that this is a moral and civic issue, not just a digital one, and called for a balance between freedom of speech and the protection of others’ well-being.
Acidre stressed that the issue extends beyond online discourse, affecting the kind of society being built offline. He called for a world where people are heard and respected, where disagreements do not lead to destruction, and where freedom comes with responsibility, ensuring everyone’s dignity is protected.