The performance and conduct of government employees are subject to public scrutiny; they serve as a mirror and represent the government. Their actions must be viewed as acts of the government. Considering their salaries come from taxpayer money, the people are their bosses; they have a duty to serve with sincerity and unquestionable integrity. Government workers must also be courteous when dealing with the public.

Another aspect of being a civil servant is how they deal with co-workers. A government employee must be a team player. If they do not work well with others, they do not deserve a single minute in public service. However, while there are rotten apples in every organization, many times, they are merely tolerated until a formal complaint is submitted.

Section 2 of RA 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, states: “It is the policy of the State to promote a high standard of ethics in public service. Public officials and employees shall at all times be accountable to the people and shall discharge their duties with utmost responsibility, integrity, competence, and loyalty, act with patriotism and justice, lead modest lives, and uphold public interest over personal interest.”

Unfortunately, there are some whose characters are beyond repair. They act as if they own the department and their colleagues are personal servants. Unless something is done about their actions, such attitudes will be a shame to government service./WDJ