Nat’l Prosecution Service members told to keep off partisan politics

MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra cautioned members of the National Prosecution Service (NPS) against favoring candidates in the May midterm elections.

“Members of the National Prosecution Service are hereby reminded to remain neutral, impartial and non-partisan in the performance of their official duties in relation to the upcoming 2019 National and Local Elections,” read Guevarra’s Department Circular No. 001 issued Wednesday.

Justice Undersecretary and DOJ Spokesperson Markk Perete explained that NPS members sit in the provincial, district, city and municipal boards of canvassers (BOC).

The BOC is tasked to canvass the votes for each candidate.

They are also tasked to proclaim election winners.

Guevarra pointed out that the 1987 Constitution and the Administrative Code of 1987 strictly prohibits civil servants from engaging “directly or indirectly in any electioneering or partisan political campaign.”

“Please be reminded that electioneering or engaging in partisan political activities by one holding a non-political office is a punishable offense,” Guevarra said.

“Any violation of the foregoing prohibitory rules shall be strictly and severely dealt with to the extent allowed by existing laws, rules and regulations,” Guevarra added. / gsg