By CESAR JOLITO III
The Toboso municipal government imposed a total ban on the filming and posting of personal social media content by government employees during office hours and within all local government unit (LGU) premises.
In Memorandum No. 10 dated December 4, Mayor Richard Jaojoco enforced a “strict prohibition” on TikTok filming, Facebook Reels, Instagram content creation, and similar activities while employees are on duty or inside government buildings.
The policy covers all offices, hallways, conference rooms, public service areas, and the entire LGU compound — including during break periods.
Jaojoco emphasized that using government property — such as desks, computers, vehicles, and equipment — as props or backgrounds is strictly prohibited.
He said the directive reinforces the LGU’s commitment to professionalism and integrity in public service.
“All personnel are reminded that government service demands a high level of discipline, accountability and decorum,” Jaojoco noted in the memorandum.
“Content creation for personal social media accounts during working hours is not aligned with the ethical and professional expectations of public office,” he said in his memorandum.
What triggered the ban?
The memorandum cited several issues that prompted the move, including:
* Unprofessional conduct and inappropriate use of government time
* Unauthorized use of government facilities as backgrounds in personal or entertainment content
* Risks of exposing confidential documents or sensitive information
* Disruption of office operations and reduced productivity
* Negative impact on the public image of the LGU and its employees
Employees caught violating the order may face administrative sanctions under civil service regulations and LGU policies.
Department heads and supervisors have been instructed to strictly enforce the memorandum and immediately report any breaches.
Jaojoco said the measure is part of the LGU’s broader effort to maintain a workplace that reflects the standards of public service expected by the community.
“Your full cooperation is expected as we strive to maintain a professional workplace and preserve the integrity of public service,” Jaojoco said./CJ, WDJ