CSC chief urges public to file charges over delayed gov't services

DAVAO CITY -- The chief of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has called on the public to file formal complaints against government employees who are delaying services.

In a press briefing on Wednesday here, CSC Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Balaat advised complainants to provide evidence to ensure that erring government employees will be meted out administrative sanctions.

Bala was in town for the 2018 Public Sector Human Resource Symposium at the SMX Convention Center here with 2,500 human resource practitioners in attendance.

"We will ensure that due process will be served because sometimes it might be a case where a complainant is harassing the personnel," the CSC chief said. There were cases, she said, that anonymous complaints only intend to harass government employees because the complainants were not given special favors.

Bala said under the new Republic Act 11302 or “An Act Promoting Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery," stiffer penalty awaits government employees who are found guilty.

She said the first offense will be penalized with six months suspension, and dismissal for second offense. Aside from the administrative sanction, erring government employees also face criminal liability ranging from six years maximum imprisonment and a fine of not more than PHP2 million.

However, Bala clarified that the CSC still acts on complaints lodged in Hotline 8888 although the process may take a little longer. Upon receiving the report, she said concerned employees and offices will be asked to explain and notify the complainant.

Bala said the CSC will not tolerate any delays in government services in compliance with President Rodrigo R. Duterte's directive to complete all government-related transactions within three days.

She said under the new law, all government offices - whether national, local and government-owned corporations - are required to set up an electronic or online system for convenient and faster transaction. (Armando Fenequito Jr/PNA)