Being part of the civil service—may it be as an officer or employee—directs freedom of expression to be exercised with public interest in mind. The Constitution is clear that “[p]ublic 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.” This standard is reiterated in RA 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards of Public Officials and Employees. And so, while public officials have the right to express displeasure, it must be done in a way that still preserves respect for others, including human rights.

The Commission on Human Rights continues to stress that words matter. We urge the government to avoid pronouncements that may further encourage an array of violation of rights and abuses, such as torture, kidnapping, stealing, and even arbitrary deprivation of life, against critics and individuals. The state has the primary obligation for everyone’s human rights. This includes creating an environment where human dignity is respected regardless of one’s race, gender, colour, creed, organisation, or political affiliation. ###