MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has banned its employees from posting any video on the social networking platform TikTok while wearing their uniform.
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said that the prohibition was imposed to strictly enforce regulations regarding the uniform which represents the institution of the Philippines’ immigration service.
”Our policy on the wearing of the BI uniform is clear. As public servants and supposed model Filipinos, employees must proudly wear their uniform at all times, present a professional image to the public and observe proper decorum and good taste in all their actions while they are on duty,” Morente said in a statement Monday.
He added that posting of videos undermines the reputation of the bureau, as well as being a violation of the standing directive for BI employees to avoid using mobile phones and other electronic devices while on duty.
Morente also said it violates BI’s social media policy which states that “BI personnel must adhere with the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees with respect to their actions online, and to desist from behaviors that would bring disrepute to public service.”
All employees were likewise ordered to “observe proper decorum on social media to protect the integrity of the agency.”
The order came after several videos of airport immigration officers via TikTok surfaced online. The BI chief described the videos as “reckless” which belittles the image of the bureau.
He warned that employees who defy the TikTok ban may be charged administratively for insubordination and conduct prejudicial to the interest of the service. — Miggy Dumlao, Trainee