DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACADEMY

SESSION 6
PUBLIC ETHICS AND
ACCOUNTABILITY

“A body of men holding themselves accountable

to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”
Objectives
This training intends to facilitate an awareness
raising for Barangay New Elected Officials on the
framework, significant principles in local governance;
equip local officials with the knowledge, skills, and
ethical principles necessary to uphold the standards of
integrity, transparency, and accountability required by
Republic Act No. 6713 in their roles as public servants
at the local level.

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Objectives
Specifically, at the end of the session, the participants are expected to have:

1. Explore ways and 2.Examine and 3. Familiarize the 4. Acquire decision-

understand the portray the ethical principles making skills that
meaning of importance of outlined in the RA prioritize the public
transparency and clarity of intention 6713 or Code of interest and ethical
public and motivation as Conduct for Public considerations in
accountability in public servants in Officials and local governance to
local government the desire for Employees and exercise genuine
and find ways to public office. apply them to local public service and
implement these government good governance for
principles contexts. the betterment of
effectively. Philippine society.

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Guess the Word

C_U_ _GE

COURAGE
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”
Mahatma Gandhi

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Guess the Word

_N_E_ _ _TY
INTEG R ITY
THE MOST IMPORTANTE INGREDIENT
OF LEADERSHIP IS CHARACTER. MOST
OF THE PROFICIENCIES CAN BE
LEARNED, BUT WHAT’S INSIDE YOU IS
SOMETHING THAT’S DIFFICULT TO
CHANGE.
Sec. Jesse Robredo

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Guess the Word

H_N_ _
HONOR
“CORRUPT POLITICIANS ARE
THREATENED BY AN EDUCATED
PUBLIC.”
SEN. MIRIAM DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO

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Guess the Word

_A_R_ _IC_
SACRIFICE
“I am the Good Shepherd. The
good shepherd sacrifice his life
for the sheep.”
John 10:11

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Process Questions:

1.What are your observations in the activity?

2.What distinct characteristics or traits you can further identify with
personalities presented on the activity?
3.Can you name some of your personal characteristics and traits
you think you possess as public servants?

Deepening:

1.What is your primary motive or intention in running for public

office?
2.What positive impact you think you can offer to your community?

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Let’s watch this...

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What then should be our consciousness?

• Kasikatan
• Poder
• Kwarta (Pera)
• Impluwensya
• kaalaman
• Hilig
• Handum

“Kung ako ay papasok sa pulitika isa lang ang ikinakatakot ko, ito ay ang manalo dahil kapag
nandun na ako...baka mapahiya lang ako kasi hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko, at sayang lang ang
pagboto ng mga tao sa akin.”
~Rodolfo Quizon~
a.k.a. ‘Dolphy”

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Topic 1
PUBLIC
ACCOUNTABILITY

“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”

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 "Public office is a public trust. Public officers and employees must, at all times, be
accountable to the people, serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and
efficiency; act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives.” (Article XI of the
1987 Philippines Constitution)

Accountability is a central problem from governments which are or claim to be

democratic. The activities of civil servants and public agencies must follow the will of
the people to whom they are ultimately responsible. (Buacan, 2015).

Who is considered In the To what standard or

accountable? discussion of value he/she is
accountability, it accountable?
is best to
To whom he/she is highlight the By what means
considered four standard he/she is made
accountable? questions which accountable?
are central to it:

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 It should be given due emphasis, that a responsive and transparent
government is essential in our attempt to implore and foster peoples’ trust in
public governance. It is within this context that reforms on public administration
are imperative to bring about responsive governance and in restoring trust in
government. In a government stained with corruption, inefficiency, and
ineffectiveness, restoring trust is primordial.

History has shown that governance in the Philippines has been

characterized by excessive politics, patronage and family. This was described by
Johnston (2005), in his book, Syndromes of Corruption, whereby he considered
the Philippines as a country characterized by the domination of oligarchs and
clans. Filipinos are known for their distinct characteristics and values (which will
be discussed below), Cariño explains that these traits, when applied to
bureaucratic institutions, become “negative bureaucratic behavior”.

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Poor public perception towards the
government is a challenge and
restoring people’s trust is an equally
important concern. Trust is upheld
when a public official is brought to
office or power through a democratic
process such as election, however,
the question is how to sustain public
trust once that public official already
holds the power (Brillantes &
Fernandez, 2011).
“Pakalat-kalat na naman sila”
Photo posted on Facebook – October 21, 2023

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Regaining Trust and Integrity as in
Public Service requires Evaluation
and Revaluation of public service, so
that authentic public service may
increase its value, and the distrust in
public servants may be diminished. In
this regard, public officials have to
face the challenge and embrace the
duty of going beyond his personal
interest in response to the higher call
of duty – public service.

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1. Reforming
the problem of distrust in the government questioning the issues on transparency and accountability of public servants has
Governance placed our country in turmoil and discord. The civil society has become vocal in expressing their sentiments and
Framework resentments in the government – and repeatedly demanded accountability and transparency among our elected public
servants.

2. Reforming refers to the moulding of the individual and collective perspectives or paradigms of public officials in line with
mindsets the demand of the changing context.

3. Leadership
and Political
it is a kind of leadership that involves personal integrity, and it not afraid to submit himself to public enquiry.
Will

4. Citizens’ in order for democracy to flourish, citizens must take an active role in public life sharing their ideas and opening their
Participation &
Engagement
minds to the opinions of others, and taking ownership in the well-being of the country.

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 Reform Institutions,
Leadership and
Process, and
Political Will
Procedures

Reform Mindset,
Active Citizen
Paradigm, and
Engagements
Behavior Shared Vision and
Goals for
Transformative and
Reformative
Government

This illustration is the simplification of regaining trust and integrity as public servants based on Brilantes and
Fernandez, 2011.

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Topic 2
Filipino

“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”

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 Filipino core values are the set of cultural, ethical, and moral
principles that are deeply ingrained in the Filipino culture. These values
serve as a guide for how Filipinos interact with one another, make
decisions, and navigate life's challenges.

Maka-Diyos Malikhain
FILIPINO
CORE
VALUES

Maka-Tao Makabansa

Makakalikasan

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Other Traits that are unique to us as Filipinos
Bayanihan (Community Spirit):
Bayanihan is the spirit of
communal unity and cooperation.
It involves helping one another in
times of need, often symbolized
by the tradition of neighbors
coming together to move an entire
house to a new location. It reflects
the importance of social harmony
and collective effort.
Utang na Loob (Debt of
Pakikisama (Getting Along Hiya (Sense of Shame): Hiya
Gratitude): Filipinos place a strong
with Others): Filipinos highly is a sense of shame or honor.
emphasis on the concept of utang
value harmonious relationships It is about avoiding actions that
na loob, which means recognizing
and getting along with others. may bring shame to oneself or
and repaying debts of gratitude.
This involves avoiding one's family. This value
It's about remembering and
confrontation, being influences behavior and
reciprocating acts of kindness or
considerate, and maintaining a decisions to maintain one's
assistance from others.
sense of camaraderie. reputation.
Malasakit (Compassion and
Empathy): Malasakit is the
expression of genuine concern
and care for the well-being of
others. It involves showing
compassion and being
responsive to the needs of
others.
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 While Filipino core values are generally regarded as positive and essential aspects of the
culture, it's important to acknowledge that there can be negative implications or challenges
associated with these values, especially when taken to extremes or misapplied in certain
situations. However, these negative implications are not inherent to the values themselves
but can emerge when they are misunderstood, misapplied, or taken to extremes. These are
few of the examples of the negative implications of Filipino values when taken into the
extreme:

Collectivism vs. Ingrained Tendency to Passivity in the Lack of

Individuality Corruption Avoid Face of Injustice Accountability
Confrontation
The strong emphasis While not a core The value of hiya The concept of
on communal values value, the practice of The value of (shame) may "malasakit" or
and collective corruption in some "pakikisama" and discourage individuals compassion can
decision-making can sectors can be hidden avoiding confrontation from reporting or sometimes be used to
sometimes lead to behind the value of can lead to a challenging injustices, excuse or overlook
conformity and a lack “utang na loob”, reluctance to address even when they wrongdoing,
of emphasis on where individuals feel important issues witness unethical or preventing
individuality. obligated to repay directly. unlawful behavior. accountability for
favors. one's actions.

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Topic 3
Revivifying Ethical
Standards in
Public Service

“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”

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 In the revivification of
ethical standards, Self-reflection
of one's intentions and
motivations are highly important
for anyone, especially for a public
servant holding a public office. It is
imperative that any public servant
must align their actions with a set of
ethical principles, and ultimately
help them make decisions that are
legally sound, morally and ethically
justifiable. Introspection is defined
as the act of assessing one’s
thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Transformational Leadership: Public
Ethics and Accountability for a Better
Philippine Society
Looking at the context of Philippine
governance, where ethical standards and
accountability are paramount,
transformational leadership stands as a
guiding principle for shaping a better
society. It is a call to action, an aspiration,
and a commitment to higher ethical
standards and public accountability.
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Some distinct characteristics of a
Transformational Leader involves:
Vision and inspiration - Transformational leaders have
a compelling and inspirational vision for the future. They
communicate this vision clearly and passionately to their
team.
Encouraging new ideas and perspective which
encourage creativity and innovations among its
constituents.
Fostering individual consideration by providing
personalized support guidance to members of our
community.
Leading by example demonstrating a strong
commitment to ethical and moral principles.
Empowerment of members to take on more
responsibility and develop skills and potential.
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Topic 4
Republic Act 6713
“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A CODE OF CONDUCT AND
ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND
EMPLOYEES.”

“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”

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 Elements of RA 6713 Aim: Integrity and Honesty in Public Service

a.Promoting a high standard of ethics and ● Public Trust

accountability in public service ● Code of Conduct (Standards)
(Section 2. Declaration of Policies; & Section 4 Norms o Gifts and Benefits
of Conduct of Public Officials and Employees). o Conflicts of Interest
o Disclosure of Assets and Liabilities
o Nepotism

b. Prohibited acts and Penalties ● prohibited actions as prescribed by the law

(Section 7, & Sec. 11)

c. Oversight: Civil Service Commission & Ombudsman ● Enforcing the Provisions of the law
(Section 12. Promulgation of Rules and Regulations,
Administration and Enforcement of this Act).

d. On Whistle-blower ● Protection of persons who report violations of

the code of conduct and ethical standards.
e. Implementing Rules and Regulations (Section 12) ● Effective implementation of RA 6713

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Norms of Conduct of Public Officials and Employees (Section 4 of RA
6713)

A. The Section 4 of RA 6713 states that “every public official and employee shall observe
the following as standards of personal conduct in the discharge and execution of official
duties:

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 Section 5 of the RA 6713 Duties of Public Officials and Employees states that all public
officials and employees have the obligation to:
a. Act promptly on the letters
and requests within fifteen (15)
working days from receipt
thereof, respond to letters,
telegrams or other means of
communications sent by the
public. The reply must contain
the action taken on the request.
b. Submit annual performance
reports within forty-five (45)
working days from the end of the
year, and render a performance
report of the agency or office or
corporation concerned. Such
reports shall be open and
available to the public within
regular office hours.
c. Process documents and e. Make documents accessible
papers expeditiously within a to the public and readily
reasonable time from the available for inspection by, the
preparation thereof and must public within reasonable
contain, as far as practicable, working hours.
not more than three (3)
signatories therein.
d. Act immediately on the
public's personal transactions
and attend to anyone who wants
to avail himself of the services of
their offices and must, at all
times, act promptly and
expeditiously
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 Section 7 of the provision, on the other hand, states the prohibited actions and Transactions of
public official.
(a) Financial and (b) Public officials are
material interest Public required that during their
officials and employees incumbency shall not:
shall not, directly or 1. Own, control, manage or
accept employment as officer,
indirectly, have any employee, consultant,
financial or material counsel, broker, agent, trustee
interest in any or nominee in any private
enterprise regulated,
transaction requiring the supervised or licensed by
approval of their office. their office unless expressly
allowed by law;
2. Engage in the private practice
of their profession unless
authorized by the Constitution
or law, provided, that such
practice will not conflict or
tend to conflict with their
official functions; or
3. Recommend any person to
any position in a private
enterprise which has a regular
or pending official transaction
with their office.
(c) Disclosure and/or (d) Solicitation or
misuse of confidential acceptance of gifts -
information Public Public officials and
officials and employees employees shall not
shall not use or divulge, solicit or accept, directly
confidential or classified or indirectly, any gift,
information officially gratuity, favor,
known to them by reason entertainment, loan or
of their office and not anything of monetary
made available to the value from any person in
public, either: the course of their official
duties or in connection
with any operation being
regulated by, or any
transaction which may
be affected by the
functions of their office.
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Section 8. Statements and Disclosure. — Public officials and employees have an obligation to
accomplish and submit declarations under oath of, and the public has the right to know, their assets,
liabilities, net worth and financial and business interests including those of their spouses and of unmarried
children under eighteen (18) years of age living in their households.

Section 9. Divestment. — A public official or employee shall avoid conflicts of interest at all times. When
a conflict of interest arises, he shall resign from his position in any private business enterprise within thirty
(30) days from his assumption of office and/or divest himself of his shareholdings or interest within sixty
(60) days from such assumption

From the Public Service Motivation Theory by Perry & Wise (1990), is a need-based and there
are three motives for an individual to join the public sector which are:
• Rational motive (the interest in participating in the provision of public service or being able
to participate in policy formulation)
• Norm-based motive (being committed towards the public interest, the feeling or patriotism)
and Affective motive (showing empathy and being compassionate towards others).

Since public office is a public trust, it assumes power entrusted by the people. If we are
not too careful and reflective about our motives and inclinations, power will blind us. Lord
Acton has postulates that a person’s morality lessens as his power increases; “power tends to
corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

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Table 2. Let us re-assess and go back to our context
Our Personal Checklist

Your motives and intentions in running for public office

Your personal traits and
Expected impact you can
characteristics as an
Rational Norm-based Affective give to your co 8mmunity
individual

Helpful The people want To serve my Replace the position To offer a fresh perspective of
Accommodating change community of my father governance to my community.

Honest I want to propose an To help the people The people Establish projects/programs

Word of Honor ordinance intensifying (sector) in my (relatives) in my beneficial for the (sector)
the campaign against barangay community wants people.
Sincere
illegal drugs. To be the symbol of me to run for the Promote equality and justice
Intelligent
unity among the position Transparent Governance
Dedicated people in our Provide livelihood
Promote peace and
community. programs for
participation among people.
To be the voice of the women and persons

youth. with disability.

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• Since public office is a public trust, it assumes power entrusted by the
people. If we are not too careful and reflective about our motives and
inclinations, power will blind us. Lord Acton has claims that a person’s
morality lessens as his power increases; “power tends to corrupts,
absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

• On the contrary, John Steinbeck states that power does not connote evil.
Power does not corrupt, but FEAR corrupts…perhaps, the fear of a loss of
power, makes one desperate to cling to it all the more. As elected
servants, we have the power to effect change…but we have to constantly
check ourselves, our motives and intentions, for too much of it might blind
us; indulging and wallowing ourselves in corruption.

• Our values, characteristics, traits, motives and intentions must be in-synch

with the essential elements of public service; Honesty, transparency,
responsibility, and accountability.

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• Ethics and Morality in public service mean control over personal
inclinations that are in conflict with the concepts of fairness and servant
leadership.

• Pedagogy of the oppressed by Paul Freire states that, yesterday’s

oppressed will be tomorrow’s oppressor. Unless we educate our
consciousness/conscience, we are doomed to repeat the same
mistakes, if we failed to engage in the process of conscientization.
Education of conscience involves reflective thinking or discernment.

• The Challenge for Transformational Leadership is to create a positive

impact, collective growth, and empowered constituents towards societal
transformation…and this involves education of consciousness.

• The law presumes order in the community, but to live the spirit of law
brings forth harmony and unity among the people.

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Integrity’ refers to a quality of a person's character...a call to be a person
of integrity requires the following (Cox, La Case and Levine, 2008).

Integrity

Integration of Maintenance of Standing for as a moral

as a virtue
self identity something purpose

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The following are the reasons why clarity of intention and motivation is important for (elected) public servants.

1. Trust and Credibility

When a public servant is clear and transparent about their intentions, it fosters trust among the
constituents. People are more likely to believe and have confidence in leaders who are straightforward about
their goals and motivations.

2. Accountability & Transparency

Clear intentions provide a benchmark against which the performance of public officials can be measured.
When a public servant is explicit about their objectives and promises during their campaign, they can be held
accountable for their actions once in office.

3. Alignment with Public Interests & Effective Governance

With clear intention for public holding office, it helps the public assess whether an official's goals align with
the needs and priorities of the community. People want to know that their representatives are genuinely working
to address the issues that matter most to them.

4. Public Engagement & Building Coalitions

The clarity of motives and intention inspire public engagement and participation. When constituents
understand what their elected officials are trying to achieve, they are more likely to become actively involved
in the political process, whether through voting, advocacy, or community involvement.

5. Long-Term Planning, creating Legacy and Reputation

Public officials with clear intentions can engage in long-term planning and set achievable goals. This can
lead to the implementation of sustainable policies and initiatives that benefit the community over time.

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The implication of R.A. 6731?

The provisions of the law

ensure to promote ethical
governance by setting clear
standards of conduct, and aims to
ensure that those in public service
act with integrity, transparency,
and a sense of accountability. This
law plays a crucial role in
preventing corruption within the
government by prohibiting public
officials from engaging in corrupt
practices, e.g. bribery, extortion,
embezzlement, and abuse of
authority.

This illustration is adopted from Carol W. Lewis on Ethical Norms in Public Service
2008

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Topic 5
Grounds for
Disciplinary Action

“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”

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Grounds for Disciplinary Action (LGC – Sections 60-68)

The Concept of accountability and Justice presupposes disciplinary

actions in every violation of the provisions of the law required for
(elective) public servants. Section 61 of the Local Government Code on
forms and Filing of Administrative Complaints where a verified complaint
against erring elective officials; e.g. any elective barangay official,
complaint shall be filed before the Sangguniang Panglungsod or
Sanguniang Bayan concerned where the decisions shall be final and
executory.

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 (a) Disloyalty to the Republic of the Philippines
Description
Abandonment or renunciation of one’s loyalty to
government or advocating the overthrow of the
government.
Art. 136, Revised Penal Code States the following:
● Failed to resist a rebellion by all the means in their disloyal. Undoubtedly, the object of the law is to disqualify a
power;
● Accept appointments to the office under them.
● Continue to discharge the duties of their offices
under the control of the rebels.
Jurisprudence
[Casin v. Calauag, G.R. No. L-1939, April 19, 1948]
Because the law provides as a ground of disqualification, not
the conviction of the candidate of the crime of treason or any
other act constituting disloyalty, but the mere fact of being
person, who is shown to be disloyal to the Government of the
Philippines by a preponderance of evidence in a quo warrant to
proceedings, to hold a public office in said government.
Of course, a person convicted of the crime of treason or any
other offense constituting disloyalty to the government is, a
fortiori, disqualified to hold a public office. Had the lawmakers
intended to require conviction of disloyalty as a ground for
disqualification, it would have so expressly Provided.
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(b) Culpable violation of the Constitution

”...wilful and intentional violation of the Constitution and not violations

committed unintentionally or involuntarily or in good faith or through an
honest mistake of judgment” (Bernas, 2003). Culpable violation of the
Constitution implies 'deliberate intent, perhaps even a certain degree of
perversity for it is not easy to imagine that individuals in the category of
these officials would go so far as to defy knowingly what the Constitution
commands.

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(c) Dishonesty, oppression, misconduct in office, gross negligence, or dereliction of duty;
● Defined as the concealment or distortion of truth,
which shows lack of integrity or a disposition to
defraud, cheat, deceive, or betray, or intent to
violate the truth (Loreño v. Office of the
Ombudsman).
● It is a question of intention. Although this is
something internal, we can ascertain a person's
intention not from his own protestation of good
faith, which is self-serving, but from the evidence
of his conduct and outward acts (Bacsasar v. Civil
Service Commission).
[Magat and Gulapa v. Gallardo, G.R. No. 209375,
June 10, 2020] Members of the Sangguniang
Bayan falsified and counterfeit to justify their travel
expenses for the 5th National Congress (National
Congress) of the Philippine Councillors League
(PCL)
Verily, there was no direct evidence linking
petitioners to the submission of fake receipts.
However, the incidents that led to the discovery of
the controversy and all the pieces of circumstantial
evidence gathered point to petitioners as the ones
responsible for the counterfeiting. Eventually, the
pieces of evidence found their way in the hands of
the municipal accountant.
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Oppression
Also known as grave abuse of
authority, which is a misdemeanor
committed by a public officer, who
under color of his office, wrongfully
inflicts upon any person any bodily
harm, imprisonment or other injury. It is
an act of cruelty, severity, or excessive
use of authority (Office of the
Ombudsman v. Caberoy).
Misconduct in office
It is a misconduct such as affects his
performance of his duties as an officer
and not such only as affects his
character as a private individual. In
such cases, it has been said all times,
it is necessary to separate the
character of the man from the
character of the officer. (Lacson v.
Roque)
Negligence is want of care required
by the circumstances. It is a relative
or comparative, not an absolute
term, and its application depends
upon the situation of the parties, and
the degree of care and vigilance
which the circumstances reasonably
impose (US vs. Juanillo, 23 Phil.
212).
Dereliction of Duty
Dereliction of duty may be classified
as gross or simple neglect of duty or
negligence.
Moral Turpitude
Everything which is done contrary to
justice, modesty, or good morals; an
act of baseness, vileness or
depravity in the private and social
duties which a man owes his
fellowmen, or to society in general
(Teves v. Commission on Election).
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Form and Filing of an Administrative Complaints:
Any elective Barangay official shall be filed before the Sangguniang Panlungsod or
Sangguniang bayan concerned whose decision shall be final and executory.

Under SECTION SECTION SECTION SECTION SECTION SECTION

SECTION 62. 63. 64. Salary 65. Rights 66. Form 67. 68.
Notice of Preventive of of and Notice Administrat Execution
Hearing
Suspension Responden Responden of Decision. ive Appeals Pending
. t Pending t Appeal
Suspension

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Topic 6
Modelling Transparency,
Commitment, and
Accountability in Public
Service
“A body of men holding themselves accountable to nobody ought not to be trusted by anybody.”

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

 In a democracy, public trust in government institutions and officials is the
bedrock upon which a just and equitable society is built. RA 6713, enacted to
safeguard this trust, outlines the ethical standards and conduct expected of
public servants. This law is not just a legal document but a manifestation of the
Philippines' commitment to good governance, transparency, and
accountability. Understanding RA 6713 is not only essential for those currently
in public service but also for aspiring public servants, concerned citizens, and
anyone interested in the principles that underpin ethical governance.

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Understanding Servant-Leadership

Servant leadership is a leadership philosophy that emphasizes the leader's primary role
as a servant to their team or organization, focusing on the well-being and growth of others.
While RA 6713 does not explicitly mention servant leadership, its principles are highly
compatible with the ethical requirements and expectations outlined in the law.

Qualities of Servant-Leader Description

− Emphasis on prioritizing the interests of

Public Interest as primary
others, particularly the well-being of the
priority people they serve.
− Placing the public interest above
personal gain or self-interest.

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 Qualities of Servant-Leader Description
Modelling Integrity and Honesty − Leaders are expected to act with honesty,
transparency, and ethical conduct.
− Maintaining the highest standard of
integrity and to conduct themselves with
honesty and truthfulness in all official
dealings.
− Taking responsibility and accountability for
Fostering Accountability and
actions and decisions as stewards of
Responsibility public resources.
− Developing others in the community,
Empowering and Developing Others
promoting their growth and well-being.
− Fostering Inclusivity and participation.

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 Qualities of Servant-Leader Description
Exemplifying Humility and Humble − Exercise leadership with humility and a
Service willingness to serve others, and not
seeking personal recognition or
aggrandizement.
− Emphasizing the public office is a public
trust

Compliance with Ethical Standards − Adherence to a strong set of ethical

values, avoiding conflict of interest.
Promotion of Public Good − Commitment to work tirelessly for the
betterment of society and advances the
common good.

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

Topic 7
Guide on Ethical Decision
Making (Making the
Informed Decisions)

"It's not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It's what we do consistently.“
Tony Robbins

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

Moral Deliberation
This is the process of carefully reflecting upon and considering ethical issues or
dilemmas at hand. It involves thoughtful examination of various moral perspectives, values,
and principles to arrive at a well-reasoned and ethically justifiable decision or course of action.

Gathering Information
Gather relevant facts, data, and information about the situation. Seek different
perspectives, consider the opinions of the people, consult ethical guidelines and principles, and
review pertinent literature or resources in finding resolution.

Identifying ethical frameworks

Familiarize yourself with various ethical theories, frameworks, or principles that can
provide guidance in analyzing the moral dilemma. Consider perspectives such as utilitarianism,
deontology, virtue ethics, or care ethics. Understand their underlying principles and how they
might apply to the specific situation.

Evaluating options
Carefully evaluate the available options or courses of action. Consider their ethical
implications, weighing the potential benefits, harms, rights, duties, and virtues associated with
each option. Assess how each option aligns with the ethical principles and values that are most
important in the given context.

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

Reflecting on personal values
Reflect on your own values, beliefs, and moral compass. Consider how your personal
values might influence your decision-making process and the potential biases they may introduce.

Engaging in dialogue
Engage in meaningful discussions and dialogue with others who have knowledge or
perspectives relevant to the moral issue. Listen to different viewpoints, consider alternative
arguments, and be open to challenging your own assumptions.

Weighing alternatives
Weigh the pros and cons of each option based on ethical considerations and values.
Consider the short-term and long-term consequences, the potential impacts on stakeholders, and
the principles that are most relevant to the situation.

Reaching a decision
Based on your deliberation, reach a decision that you believe is ethically sound and
justifiable. Be prepared to justify your decision based on the ethical reasoning and principles you
have considered.

Commit to action
Take action and be ready to stand by your decision.
BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023
SUMMARY

o Self-reflection of one's intentions and motivations are highly important for

anyone, especially for a public servant holding a public office. It is imperative
that any public servant must align their actions with a set of ethical
principles, and ultimately help them make decisions that are legally sound,
morally and ethically justifiable.
o Public servants who engage in introspection and are clear about their
motivations can communicate their intentions transparently to the public.
This transparency builds trust among the constituents in understanding the
reasons behind the actions and decisions of the leader.
o The clarity of our intention towards a desired goal is of paramount
importance in holding a public office, which one must attune his motives and
intention to the ethical standards in holding a public office.

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

 Hence, Transparency,
Accountability, and Responsibility
are the by-products of our constant
education and examination of
consciousness as public servants.
We need leaders that do not only
speak of what is true, but a kind of
that lives and models the spirit of
truth and justice. We will all be
measure not on the words we utter,
but on the actions and decisions we
make that leave indelible imprints in
the heart of our constituents and
the history of our nation.

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

Assessment Activity

o Let us go back to our drawing board and define the kind of leadership,
and the qualities we want like possess and nurture as public servants.
o Let us try to make priority lists of our personal commitments as our
response for a call to action towards genuine public service and good
governance in our communities.
o Focus on the things that you can do in your first 100 days in public
office.
o Commit for change…be the change, and be the channel of communal
transformation.

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

May we be united with one cause...work with a common
goal...and to live as perosns in the community of persons!

“I am because we are...we are

because everyone is”.
~Ubuntu Philosophy~

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023

THANK YOU & GOD
BLESS!
+ Ad Majorem Die Gloriam!

BNEO BASIC ORIENTATION 2023