THE CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR PUBLIC

OFFICER AND EMPLOYEE

REPUBLIC ACT OF 6713 SECTION 7: PROHIBITED ACTS AND

TRANSACTIONS

(REYNA MAE LUBATON)

One of the most important topics that you have to mainly review is
Republic Act 6713, known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards of Public
Officials and Employees. This law contains the standards which public employees
must follow and contains penalties for its violation. Another one is Article 11 of the
Philippine Constitution, Accountability of Public Officers. It establishes
the independent office of the Ombudsman who can recommend a case to
the Sandiganbayan, a specialized court who hears cases of graft and corruption
in the government. It also contains Impeachment Procedures.
This is important as these govern the rules and regulations that
government officials and employees must follow. You have to be aware of the
restrictions stated in this law. This section of the act contains the prohibited acts
and transactions. Doing these acts are considered unlawful by the constitution.
The following shall constitute prohibited acts and transactions. (1.) Financial and
material interest, public officials and employees cannot have financial or material
interest in their office, whether directly or indirectly. (2.) Outside employment and
other activities related thereto: these are divided into 3 separate parts. These acts
are prohibited during their incumbency: a. Having a stake or ownership of a
private enterprise that is handled by their office, b. Cannot practice their
profession unless allowed by the law which should not conflict with their current
functions and duties and, c. Refer any person to a private enterprise to any
position which has pending or regular transactions with their office. These
restrictions continue for 1 year after leaving the public office (for appointed public
officers only, not employees). (3.)  Disclosure and/or misuse of confidential
information: Self-explanatory, If it is confidential info, it is not to be disclosed.
(4.) Solicitation or acceptance of gifts: Officials and Employees cannot accept gifts
during working hours and if it involves their office. It is considered a form of
bribery.