Facade of the DOH main office in Manila. INQUIRER.net file photo
The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday reiterated its reminder to the public as well as its employees and offices not to use apolitical materials and paraphernalia, including shirts bearing the agency logo, for endorsing candidates or when attending campaign sorties.
The reminder came after photos of a party-themed Resbakuna Kids vaccination event for children 5 to 11 years old, which featured mascots not only of a popular fast-food chain but also that of presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his running mate, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, circulated online.
Viral photo
A viral photo also circulated on social media showing some individuals wearing green DOH uniforms in a campaign rally of Marcos and Duterte in Ilocos Sur.
Regarding the Marcos and Duterte mascots at the vaccination center, the DOH said it has yet to receive reports on the matter as its regional offices were still verifying the photos.
“As early as November 2021, the department has emphasized the Executive Secretary and the Civil Service Commission’s issuance of CSC Resolution No. 1600298 on the guidance on upholding political neutrality in the government service at all times,” the DOH said in a statement.
It also clarified that the individuals seen wearing shirts with the DOH logo while attending a campaign rally are not employees of the health department.
The DOH said they were health workers employed or directly engaged by local government units over whom the agency has no authority.
It explained that due to the department’s various health promotion campaigns and outreach programs on the ground, it has produced and distributed a multitude of shirts and paraphernalia bearing the DOH logo to health and nonhealth workers alike, those covered under CSC rules and otherwise.
Nevertheless, the DOH urged the public not to use such materials when endorsing candidates or joining political activities.