Ethics and Accountability

IBAAN, Jocelyn C.DM 202 Ethics and Accountability in the Public ServiceMDM-EETEAPPSU Urdaneta

MODULE 1

Scope and Meaning of Ethics

Exercise 1. Give the correct answer to the following questions:

Ethics and Politics1. They are inseparable to mans present existence, where the material and spiritual, the body and the spirit form the person.

Sociology2. It describes the general structure, attitude of social groups: The family the government, the working class etc.

Value3. It is something that a person prizes, cherishes and esteems as important to him.

Intuitionism4. It holds the theory that conscience is an innate or inborn faculty that gives man an immediate knowledge of right and wrong.

Logic5. It is a science of right or correct thinking.

Conscience6. It is a judgment of human reason concerning the moral goodness or evil of ones own action.

Ethics7. It is especially concerned with the right way of doing things in the business of living itself and with the principles underlying the realization of recognized values in all human relationships.

Morality8. It is the quality of human acts which we call some of these acts good and some evil.

General Ethics9. It is defined as the art or science of mans effort to live in proper harmonious relationship with other men, groups or institutions: and the study of his moral responsibility to discern the rightness or wrongness of his actions.

Folkways10. They are considered to be the right ways and true ways because they exist in fact and are customary or traditional.

Exercise 2: Answer any two (2) of the following questions:

1. Discuss the relationship between ethics and other phases of life.2. Discuss the importance of the study of ethics as described by the various philosophers and authority in so far as human conduct and ethical system apply.3. Explain the meaning of ethics as well as its origin leading to its development as a body of knowledge in the field of social science.4. Enumerate and discuss the various schools of moral and ethical thoughts in the study of ethics.

ANSWER: Question No. 1.

Ethics as the analysis of human morality and conduct and a system of conduct and behavior is related with other phases of human life. It encompasses all aspects of human conduct the totality of life and mans existence. As such, it is related with education, religion, law, art, politics and various codes of other professions.Ethics is related with education in such a way that education endeavors to develop a whole man. It aims to change man for the better and it is geared to achieve perfection despite the innate imperfections of man. Ethics take the form of Value Education which guides the individual in choosing wisely his values and in acting upon them. Thus, education provides man a greater opportunity to make wise decisions in life, doing what ought to be in dealing with his fellow and the society in general and becoming a better individual in the context of education and ethics.Ethics and religion are inseparable. Ethics teaches the value of religion. Religion on the other hand, contributes to the teaching of ethics and continues to enrich the moral life of people. These two concepts, ethics and religion complement each other for they both aim to shape man as a moral and ethical being whose ultimate goal is to live in the likeness of his Creator.Ethics stands for moral goodness while art stands for beauty. Evil implies ugliness and good is always beautiful. The aim of ethics and art is to arouse and inspire the noble emotions of man.Ethics and law are related in such a way that they require that man desires good and act in accordance to it. Law tempered mans exercise of liberty. They are so created to regulate mans conduct and in abiding to these laws, man becomes responsible and sensitive to the rightness and wrongness of his conduct in relation to the prevailing laws in human society.Ethics is core of the codes of other professions like that of the lawyers, teachers, doctors and other professionals. Ethics enables man to act according to what is expected to him as a professional. It guides the professional man with his duties and responsibilities towards his profession, to his colleagues, to his clients and to the society in general.

Answer: Question No. 3.

Ethics is derived from the Greek word ethos which means characteristic way of acting. It is lexically defined as the analysis of morality and conduct.Ethics originated from the time immemorial .It has a venerable origin. It can be traced to Adam and Eve, who understood the natural law where ethics springs. Ethics is also a branch of philosophy that deals with the rightness and wrongness of mans conduct.Human behavior is never the result of environmental factors of human traits alone; it is always the result of interaction of the individual and his environment. In the evolution of human conduct, three factors are considered pivotal: custom/folkways, laws and conscience.Ethics developed when man began to study the motives behind his actions and the results as a consequence of such motive and action. It teaches man the meaning of moral responsibility.Ethics is not just a part of social science but it is in itself a science. Ethics is a science of human acts with reference to the right and wrong. It is the study of the rectitude of human conduct the scientific inquiry of morality of human actions. Ethics is both a natural science and physical science. As a natural science, it employs the power of human reason as it guides proper conduct. It is also a practical science in the sense that, it is not studied for the love of learning alone but it is bound in conscience to apply its principles to turn acts of man into human acts.


MODULE 2

The Importance of Ethics and Morality of Human Action

Exercise 1. Give the correct answer to the following questions.

Dictates of reason1.It refers to the shared consciousness of prudent people about the propriety of a certain action or manner of behavior.

Humanism2.It is the principle that humanity is an end in itself.

Consent3.The acceptance of the will of those needed to carry out the intention, thus, a woman is said to be show consent when she consciously attracts attention to herself.

Atruism Hedonism4.This type of hedonism stresses happiness, not for individual, but for the greatest number of people.

Survival of the Fittest5.This is the tendency of those best adapted to the environment to survive the struggle.

Christian Ethics6.The followers of this school of thought hold strongly to the concept that ethics and morality in human beings springs directly from the basic relations of man with God.

Moral Integrity7.It is the only true measure of what man ought to be.

Rationalization8.It is finding of arguments or excuses for doing what we want to do because of impulse of emotion or self-interest.

Norm of Morality9.It refers to the basis of distinction between right and wrong.

Hedonism10.This school believes that the acquisition of pleasure is the main goal of human life.

Exercise II. Answer the following questions.

1. Enumerate and discuss the various schools of moral and ethical thoughts in the study of ethics.

There are various schools of moral and ethical thoughts in the study of ethics such asChristian Ethics or the Doctrine of Love, Naturalism or Ethics of Domination, Hedonism or Doctrine of Pleasure, Rationalism or the Doctrine of Reason and Humanism or the Principle of Humanity.

a. Christian Ethics or the Doctrine of Love. The advocates of this school of thought hold strongly to the concept that ethics and morality in human beings springs directly from the basic relations of man with God. They also believed that there are two great concepts, first, there is a basic directive to love God and second, to love your neighbor as you love yourself.b. Naturalism or Ethics of Domination. The basic premise of this school of thought lies in the belief that whatever natural or normal is right. The same idea applies to action. If an action is performed as a result of normal realistic behavior, then it must be considered ethically proper.c. Hedonism or Doctrine of Pleasure. The proponents of this school of thought believe that the acquisition of pleasure is the main goal of human life. The more or intense the pleasure one gets of the actions, the more right/proper the actions become.d. Rationalism or the Doctrine of Reason. This philosophic thought believes that reason is right and emotion is wrong. The use of reason allows man to make wise and right decisions in life while emotion has the tendency to deceive man.e. Humanism or the Principle of Humanity. This philosophy was advocated by Plato, Aristotle and Cato. They believed to the basic principle, the assumption of the supreme goodness to be found in man.

2. Discuss hedonism or the doctrine of pleasure as one of the various schools of moral and ethical thoughts.

Hedonism or the doctrine of pleasure stresses that the main goal of human life is the acquisition of human pleasure. It advocated greater and more intense pleasure as the basis of the rightness of an action or conduct. If every individual in the society will do pleasurable things, then society would have the maximum of good in its make-up. Hedonism has four types: the psychological, ethical, egoistic and altruistic hedonism.Psychological hedonism views that every person seeks to gain his own pleasure in life. The only motive of man is to gain pleasure and avoid pain. Ethical hedonism on the other hand holds that we do not seek to gain pleasure or avoid pain but we should choose our actions so as to bring about most happiness and the least unhappiness. Egoistic hedonism accepts pleasure as a standard for self-interest while Atruistic hedonism stresses happiness not for individual but for the greatest number of people.There are weaknesses of the Hedonistic Theory, to wit: 1.as to psychological hedonism, some men will seek pleasure all the time. 2.In Ethical hedonism is very impossible to avoid pain 3.to accept pleasure as a standard of right and wrong is to place emphasis almost upon the feeling to the neglect of the intellectual, aesthetic and religious side of mans nature and 4.happiness is evidently a by-product and not an end in itself.


MODULE 3

The Natural Law


Moral Law1. It consists of moral norms that certainly dictate what sort of behavior or conduct may or may not be expressed, what sort of acts may or may not be performed within a particular community.

Natural Law2. It is a concept of a body of moral principles that is common to all humankind and, as generally posited, is recognized by human reason alone.

International Law3. A law which is concerned with the conduct of countries in their relations with each other.

Plato4. A philosopher who regards natural law as a discipline that every human being must observe and adhere to, so that the individual and common good may be realized or attained.

Unwritten Law5. It is entirely a product of political evolution consisting of customs, usages, judicial decisions and others.

Military Law6. It is a system of law applying to persons in the military service.

Norms of Morality7. They are the standards that indicate the rightfulness or wrongfulness, the goodness or evilness, the value or disvalue of thing.

Procedural Law8. It consists of rules governing the legal practice and the way in which courts operate.

Norm9. In general, it is a standard of measurement.

Civil Law10. It deals with the individuals relation to other individuals or groups of individuals, not with society as a whole.

Exercise II.Answer the following questions.

1. Discuss the general concept of law which includes its origin, kinds and various fields of study under it.

Law refers to the ordering principle or rule of action that people must obey or Conform to. It is the body of rules or principles, prescribed by authority or established by custom, that the state, community, society or other group recognizes as binding on its members. Laws are believed to be originated from customs, parental authority, and rules of conduct handed down by religious leaders and lawgivers such as Moses, Confucius, Gautama, Jesus and Mohammed, military power, decrees handed down by oligarchy, direct action of the people in a general assembly, enactment of representative bodies and decision of judges.The following are the kinds of law: Procedural law consists of the rules governing the legal practice and the way the court operates. Substantive law creates primary rights and obligations of individuals.There are fields if law in addition to the above cited genres. Criminal law deals with act or felony in violation of a law prohibiting it. Civil law on the other hand, deals with individuals relation to other individuals not with society in general. Administrative law consists of the rules of administrative commissions that regulate such matters as interstate commerce, aviation, communication and utilities. Admiralty or Maritime law is a complete set of laws governing maritime property and affairs. International law is concerned with the conduct of countries with each other. Military law is the system of law applying to persons in the military service and Canon law or the body of rules and discipline adopted by a Christian denomination.

2. Discuss the other norms of morality in terms of the natural law in contrast with other moral laws.

Natural law is the concept of a body of moral principles that is common to all humankind and is recognizable by human reason alone. Natural law is universal, obligatory, recognizable and immutable.Moral law is different from natural law and divine law. Divine law pertains to the law of religious faith; moral law is definitely not religious. Relative to the natural law, moral law has ethics as its foundation while the first is funded on metaphysics.Moral law consists of moral norms that certainly dictate what sort of behavior or conduct may or may not be expressed, what sort of acts may or may not be performed within a particular community.


MODULE 4

Conscience and Determinants of Morality


Doubtful Conscience1.A conscience which leaves a person undecided as to the proper course of action.

Where2. It refers to the circumstance of place where the act is committed.

Act3. It is a physical tendency towards a definite result.

Extrinsic evil4. An act which in itself is not evil but is made evil nonetheless on account of something else.

How5. It refers to the manner by which the act is made possible.

Conscience6. It is often a reliable guide to morality but we must not forget that it can lead us to error.

What7. It refers to the act itself and to the quality and quantity of the results of such act.

Certain conscience8. It is the subjective assurance of the lawfulness or unlawfulness of a certain act.

9. It expresses the idea that to manifest ones consciousness is like having something on the heart.

Conscience10. It is the inner sense of what is right or wrong in ones conduct or motive, impelling one towards right action.

Exercises II: Answer the following questions:

1. Discuss the role of your conscience vis--vis the theories and concepts you learned in this module. Was there more guilt you experienced in your acts or you have no regret at all?

Conscience is the inner sense of what is right or wrong in ones conduct or motives. It is believed to the interpreter of morality. It is also something we form throughout our lives. It is the little voice within us that guides our actions.They say to err is human but I personally believe that to commit mistake is the natural tendency of man because of our imperfections. However, we should not make this as an excuse to commit more mistakes and not learning from them. Most of the time, I am confronted with dilemma, I dont know which to follow or consider in making decisions and acting on them, whether my personal values or the societys norm. But most often than not, the later prevails, thus, I become more prone to mistakes by considering what I want and not what ought to be. But at the end of the day, no matter how stubborn I am, I still cannot disregard the little voice that guides me and help me make good decisions.

2. Discuss the determinants of morality and cite an instance or some instances that you experienced when you were bothered by your own conscience.

The determinants of morality are:a. The Act Itself. It means that the act itself should be moral to bring about positive results. It does not support the saying the end justifies the means. Because the evil means will never justify the good end, thus to consider an act moral, the act itself should be moral.b. The Motive of the Act. It is also referred to as the end or purpose of the act. A good motive is consistent with the dignity of the human person. It is in accordance with truth, justice, prudence and temperance. c. The Circumstances of the Act. An act is an event. It happens in a definite time and place. Morality takes into account the circumstances surrounding an act. These circumstances are who, what, where, with whom, why, how and where. An act to be moral should not go against the good in all respect as to the different circumstances above-cited.

When I do bad things, I cant get rid of my conscience. It bothers me. It keeps on reminding me of the bad things I did.


MODULE 5

Voluntariness and Moral principle involved In Actions Having Two Effects


Fear1. It is the disturbance of the mind of a person who is confronted by an impending danger or harm to himself or loved ones.

Passions/Concupiscence2. They are tendencies towards desirable objects, or tendencies away from undesirable or harmful things.

Violence3. It refers to any physical force exerted in a person by another free agent for the purpose of compelling a person to act against his will.

A Person4. Is morally responsible for any evil effect which flows from the actions itself directly and necessarily as a natural consequence, though the evil effect is not willed or intended.

Perversion5. It always involves moral turpitude and responsibility, whereas peculiarity or anomaly does not.

Ignorance6. It is the absence of intellectual knowledge which can either be vincible or invincible.

Habit7. Are defined as a more or less permanent quality which dispose a faculty to act readily and with ease that may result naturally from the repetition of the same act.

Simple Voluntariness8.It is present in a person doing an act willfully, regardless of whether he likes to do it or not.

Ignorance9. It is the absence of knowledge which a person ought to possess.

Vincible Ignorance10. It is an impulse from without tending to force the agent to act against his will.

Exercise II. Answer the following questions found below.

1. Explain the saying ignorance of the law excuses no one.

Ignorantia legis non excusat. This Latin dictum implies that being ignorant of the existing laws is not an excuse to be exonerated or exempted from liabilities resulting from an act or omission as a consequence of such ignorance. That is the reason why publication of the law in a newspaper of general circulation is one of the requisites for its validity so as to provide constructive notice to the public of its enactment, otherwise it is unenforceable for lack of essential requisite for its validity and constitutionality.Though this legal principle is embodied in the Civil Code of the Philippines, there are however some lapses of this. Not all people are aware of the existing laws, hence their ignorance may result to violations. Thus in criminal law, the degree of instruction or education may be taken as mitigating circumstance if the violator/accused is not educated or is ignorant by reason of low degree of instruction.

2. Why are we accountable for our actions done out of habit?

Criminal and civil liability arise from an act or omission punishable by law. Felonies are committed not only by means of deceit (dolo) but also by means of fault (culpa). Hence, even our actions done out of habit, with or without intent or even by reason of negligence, is not excusable if it violates the law or it transgresses the rights of others.The determinant of our liabilities arising from our actions is the damage it causes to others. If our actions, whether done out of habit violate the substantive rights of other people, then the doer will be subjected to appropriate sanctions provided by law.The factors that determine the liability are: intelligence, free will and voluntariness. If the person has the capacity to discern whether his act is right or wrong and has the ability to foresee the consequences of his action or can make intelligent decision, then the person is said to possess a substantial degree of intelligence to be aware of his action and the damage it may cause. Other factors are free will and volition whether the persons action is not vitiated by force, coercion or intimidation and that he acted with his own freewill. As the saying goes, an act against my will is not my act.


MODULE 6

Filipino Culture: Social values, Ideas, Material Culture

Exercise 1: Give the correct answer by writing the terms or phrases required in the space provided before each of the items found below:

Essential Good1. That which contributes to the integral perfection of a person.

Subjectivity2. It plays and important influence in the choice of values.

Apparent Good3. It is actually an evil thing but is viewed as good under certain aspects.

Hierarchy of Values4. It refers to the arrangement of values from the lowest to the highest.

Rational Values5. These are necessary to the functions and fulfillment of intellect and will.

Beliefs6. They embody peoples perceptions of reality and include the primitive ideas of the universe as well as the scientists imperial view of the world.

Laws7. They are formalized norms, enacted by people that are vested with government power and enforced by political and legal authorities designated by the government.

Knowledge8.It is the total range of what has been learned or perceived as true.

Mores9. They are special folkways which are important to the welfare of the people and their cherished values.

Folkways10. It is a persons social heritage or customary ways in which groups organized their ways of behaving.

Exercise 2: Answer the following questions found below.

1. Why is love of God often equated with love of fellowmen?

God said Love your neighbor/fellow as you love me. These words from God became the bases of mans love to his fellow as a sign of mans love for God. We are bound to show or express our love to our fellowmen because of the belief that whatever you do to others, either good or evil, it is as if you have done it to God Himself.

2. Discuss the implications of freedom of religious worship based on your observations prevailing today.

Article III, Sec.5 of the Philippine Constitution provides the freedom of religion. It is a right granted and protected by the Constitution. It has two aspects: freedom to believe, which is an absolute right and freedom to act according to ones belief, which is regulated by the State in the exercise of its police power.

However, people tend to abuse this right without understanding that this right is not absolute. The State regulates its exercise especially when the practice of religious worship is against the law, moral, public policy and public order. Other people put up a religion for the purpose of personal gain by indoctrinating their followers/members and collecting money from them. Some exercise weird religious ceremonies thus they were dubbed as cults.


MODULE 7

Filipino Values- Beliefs, traditions, Cultural Awareness and Traits


Values1. It is means the quality of desirability which is believed to adhere in an idea, object or action.

Utang-na-loob2. It means debt of gratitude, is owed by one to a person who has helped him through the trials he had undergone.

Hiya3. It is an emotion-laded attitude involving honor, dignity and pride.

Rebel4. He is a socially immature individual who wants the right to make his own decisions but refuses to assume the responsibility for the consequences of his decision.

Social justice5. It requires that we live only simple lives and that we should not flaunt our wealth, especially in the midst of so much poverty and deprivation.

Bayanihan6. It involves the creation of an association with neighbors and the helping attitude whenever one is in disastrous need.

Moral maturity 7. It is a process of conversion. It means shedding off the old self and putting on the new self.

Success8. It is measured in terms of moral responsibility.

Integrity9. It connotes perfection of the whole from the perfection of its parts.

Filipino Values10. Are those we drive from our culture or way of life, from our distinctive way of becoming human in this particular place and true.

Exercise II. Answer the following questions below.

1. Discuss the nature and context of Filipino values?

Filipino values are those given emphasis in the culture and traditions of Filipinos. They are centered on the Filipino way of life. They are cultural habits that define the Filipino attitude towards life in general and towards specific actions in particular. Hence Filipino values are our distinctive way of becoming human in this particular place and time.The values of the Filipinos spring from their peculiar way of viewing life, its origins, its meaning and its purpose. They are rooted from his awareness as a Filipino and what is expected of him by his group.Though based on universal values, Filipino values are said to be distinct because it is rooted and manifested in our unique way of viewing and understanding life. Example is the principle of moderation of the Greeks, Romans, Confucians and Buddists find its equivalent in hindi labis, katamtaman lang of the Filipinos.However though distinct from others, we do not claim that the elements of Filipino values are absent in the value system of other people or other culture. Our Filipino values is a way of recognizing and distinguishing us from the rest based on our actions, preferences , attitudes and our perception lo life in general the Filipino way. Another concern is that, universal human values in a Filipino context, historical, cultural, socio-economic, political, moral and religious, take on a distinctive set of Filipino meanings and motivations. A Filipino value or disvalue does not exists alone, in isolation or in vacuum but are clustered around core values like social acceptance, economic security, social mobility and the like. Thus, to change the framework of values, it may be necessary to change the context of the negative values that hinder Filipino development.Lastly, our Filipino values, in the aspect of historical consciousness of values, has evolved among our people. The Filipino concept of justice has evolved from inequality and to human dignity; from the tribe, to the family and to the nation. Filipino consciousness of these values varies at different periods of history. They change, as society and people change. However, despite the inevitable changes in the Filipino values, one thing remains constant, that we Filipinos are people who value life, human dignity, love and social justice.

2. Discuss and harmonize the core Filipino values with that of his cultural awareness and traits.

Values are not taught, they are caught. This dictum affirms that values are not inherited; they are personally cultivated and lived. Values involve a moral commitment to do what is good and just. And to live with it means embodying the core Filipino values in which other values are derived. Examples are some cultural awareness and traits like, hiya, amor propio, utang na loob, bata-bata, pakikisama, byanihan, close family ties, delicadeza and palabra de honor. These values are in congruence with the core Filipino values however, there are also some disadvantages depending on how they are understood and practiced.Although these traits are generally positive, these practices also have the inclination to be applied negatively. A debt of gratitude for instance, is sometimes repaid by giving special favors to the others regardless of the moral outcome. While close family ties can also lead to favoritism. Thus, in the case of their negative applications, there is a need to harmonize them with the core Filipino values otherwise these positive values will be given their negative meaning or interpretation.Man should not be confused with what to consider, with what should prevail and what is ought to be in case of conflict among the core values and cultural awareness and traits. Cultural awareness and traits must be harmonized with the core values. Their practiced and observance must be guided by the Filipino values and what is socially acceptable and not what should be as perceived by the individual.


MODULE 8

Strengths and Weaknesses of the Filipinos


Political power1. It is concentrated in the hands of the elite and the participation of most Filipinos often is limited to voting in election.

Colonialism2. It developed a mind-set in the Filipino which encouraged us to think of the colonial power as superior and more powerful.

Religion3. It is the root of Filipino optimism and its capacity to accept lifes hardships.

Kanya-kanya syndrome4. It results in the dampening of cooperative and community spirit and in the denial of the rights of others.

Lack of Discipline5. It encompasses several related attitude towards time and space which manifest itself in lack of precision and compulsiveness in poor time management and in procrastination.

Social environment6. It is characterized by feudal structure with great gaps between the rich minority and the poor majority.

Extreme Personalism7. It is manifested in the tendency to give personal interpretation in actions, i.e. take things personally.

Pakikipagkapwa-Tao8. It is manifested in a basic sense of justice and fairness and in concern for others.

Sense of joy & Humor9. It is manifested in the Filipino love for socials and celebrations in our capacity to laugh even in the most trying times and in the appeal of political Satire.Ability to survive10. It is manifested in our capacity for endurance despite difficult times and in our ability to get by on so little.


1. Discuss the comparative analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the Filipino character.

Who is a Filipino? To answer this question means to characterize a Filipino either by giving his positive or negative attributes. A Filipino is resilient, flexible, hard working and has a strong belief in God. On the contrary, one can also say, a Filipino is indolent, has an attitude of procrastination and colonial mentality. This implies that a Filipino character has strengths and weaknesses.The strengths of the Filipino character are:

a. Pakikipagkapwa-tao. It is manifested in a basic sense of justice and fairness and in concern for others. It is demonstrated in the Filipinos ability to empathize with others, in helpfulness and generosity in times of need, in the practice of bayanihan or mutual assistance, and in the famous Filipino hospitality.b. Family Orientation. It is showing genuine and deep love for the family. This results in a feeling of belongingness or rootedness and basic sense of security.c. Joy and Humor. These are manifested by the pleasant and positive disposition in life by the Filipinos. A sense of humor and a propensity of happiness contribute not only to the charm but also to the indomitability of the Filipino spirit. It results to optimism and capacity to survive despite lifes adversities.d. Flexibility, Adaptability and Creativity. Filipinos have a great capacity to adjust and to adopt to circumstances and to the surrounding environment, both physical and social.e. Hard Work and Industry. Poverty and the willingness to improve life conditions are the motivations of the Filipinos to work hard.f. Faith and Religiosity. Filipinos have a deep faith in God and their innate religiosity enables them to comprehend and genuinely accept reality in the context of Gods will and plan.g. Ability to survive. Filipinos have the capacity for endurance. This survival instinct is related to the Filipinos who bravely carry on through the harshest economic and social circumstance.

On one hand, Filipino character has weaknesses:a. Extreme personalism. This is manifested in the tendency to give personal interpretation in action or taking things personally. Because of this, Filipinos have difficulty dealing with all forms of impersonal stimuli.b. Extreme Family-Centeredness. This is one of the Filipinos greatest strengths but also becomes a serious flaw. Excessive concern for the family creates an in-group to which the Filipino is fiercely loyal, to the detriment of concern for the larger community or common good.c. Lack of discipline. It is manifested in the lack of precision and compulsiveness, in poor time management and in procrastination.d. Passivity and lack of initiative. This is manifested in the attitude one waits to be told what has to be done.e. Colonial mentality. This refers to the lack of patriotism and preference to anything foreign.f. Kanya-kanya syndrome. This negative character results in the dampening of cooperative and community spirit and in the denial of the rights of others because of selfishness and self-serving attitude.g. Lack of self-analysis and self-reflection. This is the tendency of the Filipinos to be superficial and flighty. Filipinos give emphasis on porma rather than substance.This comparative analysis on the strengths and weaknesses of Filipino character implies that there is a need to reexamine our values and that let us do something to turn our weaknesses or negative characters into strengths in order to preserve Filipino values and character.

2. Discuss the roots of the Filipino character and assess the contribution of the moral recovery program of the Ramos administration in so far as the current administration sis concern.

The strengths and weaknesses of the Filipinos have their roots in the following factors:1.) home environment 2.)social environment 3.) culture and language 4.) history 5.) educational system 6.) religion 7.) economic environment 8.) political environment 9.) mass media and 10.) leadership and role models.Filipino character is affected by the above mentioned factors. Our family orientation as well as social factors like social structures and social organizations shapes our behavior and character. The family as the most basic social institution lay the foundation of our character. The school, church and community reaffirm our values and orientation we receive at home. Our culture provides standard of conduct that every member is ought to follow and language serves as a medium for the transmission of culture and value system from one person to another, from one generation to the next. Our history as a people and the history of our nation also help shape our character as Filipinos. Our positive and negative attributes were inherited from our ancestors and colonizers. What we are today is the product of our past as people and as a nation. The educational system and other factors that affect the education of a person either affirm or shake the foundation of the values acquired from family orientation. They make or break an individual, thus, educational system must be consistent with the social and personal values of the people, of Filipino people in particular. Religion is the root of Filipino optimism. It provides people with the sense of direction in life. The economic and political environment, as well as the mass media and the role model or leadership also plays an important role in the value-formation of an individual. Our character is defined by the existing economic and political environment as well as the prevalent leadership system in the government. Our exposure to mass media makes us aware of almost all things around us, be it beneficial or detrimental to our character. If man is not vigilant enough, then mass media has the power to influence him to go against the established norm to favor his worldly capriciousness. Given these factors, building our character and values is both personal and collective responsibility. One must established his personal values in congruence with what is ought to be as determined by the society where he is a member.The Moral Recovery Program: building a People, Building a Nation implemented during the Ramos administration created a positive impact to the present administration. It was reiterated in this program the significance or the important role of the people in nation building. We need to improve our negative characters like self-interest over common good, our being passive and expecting our leaders to take all the responsibility in solving our nations problems. The task of nation building is not the sole responsibility of the government, we need to partake to this responsibility and it should start from us. If we demand for change- then change must start from every Filipino. Now, Filipinos are more aware, conscious and participative in the affairs of the State. They finally realized that in building a nation, every Filipino is part of this endeavor. Our collective effort will bring about positive changes that in the end, all Filipinos will reap the fruit of our toil not as individuals but as a nation. Like the famous saying goes, do not ask your country what it can do for you, instead ask yourself what you can do for your country.


MODULE 9

Morality and Accountability in the Public Service


Preamble1.It explicitly denotes the norms and conduct that all Filipinos must adhere to.

Administrative Ethics2. It is important in public administration because it serves as guide in doing public functions which the law has not contemplated.

Public Administration3. It has no universal norms but each government prescribes a code of conduct for its officials and employees.

Public policies4. It cannot be expressed to be perfect but ethical policies are affective policies.

Public office5. It is a right, an authority, and a duty created and conferred by law or fixed by law for certain period of time or enduring at the pleasure of the appointing power.

Public officials &6. They are required to take oath or affirmation to uphold Employeesand defend the constitution upon their assumption to duty in the public service.

Commission on Audit7. It has the power, authority and duty to examine, audit and all accounts pertaining to the revenue and receipts of, and expenditures or uses of funds and property of the government.

Civil Service Commission 8. It embraces all branches, subdivision, instrumentalities, and agencies of the Government, including government-owned-or controlled-corporation with original charters.

COA, CSC, Office of the9. The common features of these institutions are they enjoy a substantive degree of fiscal autonomy in the sense that they are not subject to the fiscal controls of the executive.

Corrective Approach10. It deals with corrective measures that deals withOf CSCadministrative discipline but is not a function within the exclusive jurisdiction of the CSC.


1. Harmonize the various codes or ethical standards vis--vis the conduct of public officials and employees in terms of the current morality and accountability situation prevailing in the public service.

Public office is a public trust. Public officials and employees should observe the highest standard of morality, integrity, honesty and loyalty to the public to whom they are accountable. As such, they are bound to the rules set by various codes or ethical standards in the conduct of public officials and employees. The Administrative Code of ethics sets norms of conduct for public servants. Politically, people bear the responsibility for the conduct of public administration. They determine the standard of integrity and public life and lay bedrock of a healthy political environment in society. The Code of Ethics for Public Service is a self-regulation manual among professionals. Public administration has no universal norms but each government prescribes a code of ethical conduct for its officers and employees. The 1987 Philippine Constitution particularly sec.1 of Article XI states that public office is a public trust. Public officers and employees must at all times accountable to the people, serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty and efficiency, act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lies. Sec 13 of the same article provides the power, functions and duties of the Ombudsman to serve as watchdog of public officials conduct. The Constitution also created the Civil Service Commission as the central personnel agency of the government. It is an independent body that set its own rules and regulations in the conduct of public employees.Despite these prevailing code or ethical standards, a lot of public officials and employees seem to neglect their duties and responsibilities to the public. They prioritize personal gain over public interest. They betray public trust by enriching themselves at the expense of the public to whom they owe honesty and accountability. Graft and corruption in all forms are rampant and seemed to be an indispensable part of public service. The government must be very vigilant in the conduct of public officials and employees. It should not sleep in its duty to correct and apprehend erring government officials who abuse their positions or promoting personal gain in virtute oficii, or by virtue of their office. Giving them sanctions is a way of setting example to others and it will serve as a reminder that public office is a public trust - that public officials are at all times accountable to the people.2. What remedies can you suggest to improve standards of conduct and morality among public servants taking into consideration in the prevailing situation you observe in your own agency?

We must do something to minimize, if we really cannot totally eradicate all forms of corruption in the public service. However, we should not make this an excuse to tolerate the misconducts of public officials and employees. They should set an example to everybody; hence they are expected to observe the highest degree of honesty, integrity and loyalty the public. The government through its agencies and instrumentalities vested with power and jurisdiction to implement the various codes and standards of conduct of government officials and employees should be very serious in the implementation of the code of conducts. They should not tolerate any misconduct of public officials and employees. The erring public officials and employees must be subjected to the appropriate sanction provided by law under the principle of due process. The law must be applied equally without favoring any person or class.Another remedy is the conduct of regular seminar for public officials and employees on their duties and responsibilities, and on how to carry out their functions, their accountability and responsibility to the public. Let us be reminded that the kind of public servants we have is reflective to the kind of people and the kind of government we have. If we want to effect change, then let us all work together to eradicate corruption and to improve the standards of conduct and morality of the public servants.


MODULE 10

Republic Act 6713Exercise 1: Give the correct answer by writing the terms or phrases required in the space provided before each of the items found below.

Civil Service Commission1. A constitutional commission which has the primary responsibility for the administration and enforcement of R.A. 6713.

Civil Service Commission2. It is established in order to motivate and inspire servants to uphold the highest standards of ethics.

Relatives3. These refer to any and all persons related to public official or employee within fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity including bilas, inso and balae.

Person4. It includes natural and juridical persons unless the context indicates otherwise.

Gift5. It refers to a thing or a right to dispose of gratuitously, or any act or liberality, in favor of another who accepts it, and shall include a simulated sale or an ostensibly onerous disposition thereof.

Political neutrality6. A condition by which public officials and employees shall provide service to everyone without unfair determination and regardless of party affiliation or preference.

R.A.67137. A law which embodied the Code of conduct and ethical Standards for Public Official and Employees and spelled out in fine detail the dos and donts for government official and employees in and out of workplace.

Receiving Gifts/Solicitation8. It includes the act of accepting directly or or Acceptance of giftindirectly, a gift prom a person other than a member of his family or relative.

Simple living9. It is a norm of conduct by public officials and employees and their families shall lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income.

Divestment10. It is the transfer of title or disposal of interest in property by voluntarily, completely and actually depriving or dispossessing oneself of his right or title to it, in favor of a person or persons other than his spouse and relatives.

Exercise II. Answer the following questions;

1. Discuss the norms and conduct and ethical standards vis--vis the conduct of public officials and employees in term s of the current morality and accountability situation prevailing in the public service.

R.A. 6713 otherwise known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees uphold the time-honored principle of public office being a public trust. It also grants incentives and rewards for exemplary service and it enumerates the prohibited acts and transactions and provided penalties for violations thereof.It reiterates the observance of the standards of personal conduct in the discharge and execution of official duties such as : commitment to public interest, professionalism, justness and sincerity, political neutrality, responsiveness to the public, nationalism and patriotism, commitment to democracy and simpler living.To ensure that no public official or employee will divest to his function, R.A. 6713 determines what constitutes prohibited acts and transactions in addition to the act or omission of public officials and employees prescribed by the Constitution and the existing laws. The following include: financial and material interest, outside employment and other activities related thereto, disclosure and misuse of confidential information, solicitation or acceptance of gifts. Any person found to have committed any of the following acts will be subjected to penalty as provided by this Act.Despite the clear provisions of this Act and the penalties prescribed herein, a lot of public officials and employees still continue to commit the prohibited acts and transactions. Based on what I observed in the public service, the ethical standard and morality of public officials are doubtful. They promote and protect their personal vested interest over public interest. A lot of them are engage in illegal transactions and most of the time, they benefit themselves under their guise of their public office or positions for their personal gain at the expense of the public. They view public office as a lucrative business or a way to amass wealth. Very few public officials and employees observe simple living. They interfere in the transactions of the government to promote their personal interest or most of the time, they make use of their position to protect their business, thus conflict of interest arises, but then again this is resolved in their favor.One will tolerate the misconduct of another if everyone is doing the same thing. It is as if a normal thing to them to cheat on people, anyway, once caught, they can easily slip out and evade the law which has no power to correct them. The law no matter how stiff it is will become toothless, if the people assigned to enforce them are lenient and not dead serious in its implementation. The principle of public office being a public trust is a mockery and there is no way we can raise the morality and conduct in the public service. This is the screaming reality, and it seems that we are too deft and dumbed to listen, respond and act on it.

2. Why is it the incentives and awards being offered under R.A. 6713 and other safeguards are ineffective behavioral patterns for values development among public servants in the fight against graft and corrupt practices in government.

A system of annual incentives and reward is hereby established in order to motivate and inspire servants to uphold the highest standards of ethics. The conferment of awards shall take into accounts among other things, the following: the years of service and the quality and consistency of performance, obscurity of the position, the level of salary, the unique and exemplary quality and achievements etc.

However, despite the effort of the government to provide incentive and rewards to the qualified and deserving public officials and employees, still it cannot solve the problem on corruption among public servants. Corruption is already rooted in the public service. This is because, most public officials and employees live beyond their means. They dont observe a modest or simple living, thus their salary, allowances and other incentives seem insufficient to meet their multifarious wants and needs. Unless they learn to value and respect the office they hold and to inculcate in their mind that they are supposed to serve the people as their masters, they being public servants should not take advantage of the people and the their positions, corruption remains, like a termite, it will consume the very foundation of our government.


MODULE 11

Executive Order No.292

Exercise 1: Give the correct answer by writing the terms or phrases required in the space provided before each of the items found below.

Compulsory arbitration1. A method of settling disputes which has become hardened and irreconcilable and remains unresolved after exhausting all available remedies exploring all avenues for a peaceful settlement of the dispute under existing laws and procedures.

Position2. It refers to a set of duties and responsibilities assigned by competent authority to be performed by individual or either full-time or part-time basis.

Preventive Suspension3. It is not a punishment or penalty for misconduct in office, but is considered to be a preventive measure.

Administrative Offenses (Rule XIV) 4. They are offenses which are classified into grave, less grave and light, depending on the grave of its nature and effects of said acts on the government service.

Arbitration5. A process whereby a third party who may be an individual arbitrator, a board of arbitrators, or arbitration court is empowered to render a decision which disposes of the dispute and is binding on both parties.

Loyalty award6. It is an incentive granted to an employee who has completed at least ten (10) years of continuous and satisfactory service in the government.

Grievance7. It refers to as a complaint in writing which has, in the first instance and in the employers opinion, been ignored, overridden or dropped without the consideration.

Career Service8. It is composed of positions/appointments to which prior qualification in an appropriate examination is required.

Dismissal9. A penalty which shall carry with it a cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of leave credits and retirement benefits, and the disqualification for reemployment in the government service.

Grave Offense10. A charge that is conceptually an administrative case which carries with it the penalty of dismissal even in the first offense.

Exercise II. Answer the following questions:

1. Discuss the process of resolving conflicts as provided for E.O.292.

E.O. 292 otherwise known as the Omnibus Rules Implementing Book V of E.O.292 and Other Pertinent Civil Service Laws provides for modes or processes of resolving conflict and disputes among public servants in the various departments and agencies of the government. These are: Conciliation. A process whereby a third party (conciliator) brings the parties together encourages them to discuss their differences and assist them in developing their own proposed solutions. Mediation. A process whereby a third party (mediator) is more active in assisting the parties reach acceptable solutions to the problems and help them develop or come out with an acceptable solution. Arbitration. A process whereby a third party who may be an individual arbitrator, a board of arbitrators or an arbitration court is empowered to render a decision which disposes of the dispute and is binding on both parties. Arbitration may be voluntary where the arbitrators are chosen by the parties and it can also be compulsory in case of hardened and irreconcilable dispute despite the exhaustion of all possible remedies, problem remains unsolved.The disputes involving the parties must follow the grievance procedure implemented by the Grievance Committee, presenting their complaint and defenses through oral discussion or in writing. In case of unsatisfactory result of the proceeding, the decision is subject to the appeal to the agency head.In all forms of grievances or disputes, voluntary arbitration is more favored than compulsory arbitration.

2. Formulate or design a performance incentive and awards system which can be applied to the agency you are currently employed.

If I were to formulate or design a performance incentive and award system in the institution where I am currently employed, I guess I will adapt in toto the provisions of Rule X of E.O 292 regarding incentive award system. Particularly the giving of loyalty awards to those who have rendered satisfactory service of 10 years and above plus monetary reward, giving Performance Incentive based on the evaluation conducted by the institution, Productivity Incentive, Retirement Awards, Year-end Benefits, other demandable benefits like Thirteen Month Pay, Service Incentive Leave. Maternity and Paternity Leave under SSS Law, Bonus plus Gift Cash, Rice Allowance to regular and probationary employees, granting scholarship grants to deserving employees.These are little ways of recognizing and valuing the satisfactory and notable service and loyalty of the employees.


MODULE 12

Bureaucratic Norms and Graft and Corruption


Social values1. These are values that are necessary for the promotion of human society as a whole, integrating the motivation and interest of members towards the common objective or goal.

Values2. They are classified according to the level of human life to which they correspond.

Confidentiality norm3. This is a norm which consists of the entrustment and professional secrets involved in confidential matter.

Bureaucratic norm4. These are standards, customs and models being observed in an organization.

Jurisdictional norm5. It is a norm wherein an employee works within the confines of his responsibility.

Republicanism/Acountability6. They embody the western thought that in a democratic to the peopleand republican system in the government, the people are the sovereign masters who should be served by their servant corps promptly and responsibly in all levels of governance.

Freedom of abode and 7. This guarantees the right of a person to have his home in Movementwhatever place he chooses and also to travel within hiscountry and abroad.

Value8. It is intimately related to the search for meaning in human life.

Truth9. It is natural to man and is the basis of social life.

Biological values10. These are the values necessary to the physical survival of man as an organism.


1. Discuss the various bureaucratic behaviors according to Ledevina Carino.

Bureaucratic norms are standards, customs and models being observed in an organization. Hereunder are the prevailing bureaucratic norms according to Professor Ledevina Carino of the University of the Philippines:a. Universalistic norm. Refers to the behavioral pattern in which a public servant attends to the needs of the people in a consistently uniform way, without giving undue favor to any person.b. Priority norm. Refers to the values in which public service provides entertains those in need of service in the chronological order of their arrival or first come, first served basis.c. Efficiency norm. It is the delivery of service in a very little time and little cost to the public.d. Technical norm. It has something to do with the use of the persons skill/professional training in serving the client. It is based on the premise that, the more competent, the more effective and reliable he is.e. Jurisdictional norm. It is a norm wherein employee works within the confines of his responsibility.f. Confidentiality norm. It consists of the entrustment and professional secrets involved in confidential matter.

2. Discuss the general social values of Filipinos.

The general social values of the Filipinos include:

The conscious past rather than the planned future. It means the traditions of the past as remembered by the elders are our guide to the present and not the predictions of experts about the future. We value our history. Our past determines the future and guides us to the present.Fatalistic rather than manipulative attitude. Filipinos tend to regard thoughts, subjects, persons and events sacred or as posed with peculiar virtues and specific powers and think them as ends in themselves. Manipulation on the other hand implies that man controls his destiny. Filipinos believed in destiny. They believe that life is a matter of chance not a choice.Authoritarian rather than libertarian. It is the choice between submission to legitimate authority and defense of individual rights.Particularistic rather than universal norms. Particularistic implies that ones loyalty is to the subgroup of which he is part. This is deeply rooted to the Filipino values of closed family ties and utang na loob.


MODULE 13

Filipino Social Values: Double Standard Mentality and Harmonization Between Bureaucratic Norms and Social Values


Unethical-Illegal acts1. These are acts typically committed in government offices or agencies that are tasked to collect revenues, fees and charges or which issue permits and licenses, or which conduct bidding for public works and office supplies.

Complacency2. It is the feeling of being comfortable with the present state of affairs which leads one to be indifferent to existing problems.

Pakikisama3. A Pilipino word which means giving in or yielding to the will of the leader or the majority so that the decision of the group becomes unanimous.

Closed family ties4. It is in a sense a potential for god or evil, which may help or hinder personal and national development, depending on how they are understood or practiced or lived.

Ethical-Illegal conflict5. It is caused by lack of congruence between what is sanctioned by law and what society regards as acceptable.

Priority norm6. It refers to the first come, first serve basis in the delivery of service.

Confidentiality norm7. It refers to the premature disclosure of any information treated as confidential in nature by persons not authorized to do the announcement may constitute injustice committed against the organization.

Bureaucratic norm8. It exemplifies the traits and behaviors of the public with its encounter to any bureaucratic organizations.

Human values9. These are ideas, actions, habits or experiences that contribute to the promotion of human life.

Filipino values10. These are values that are given emphasis in the culture and tradition of the Filipinos which contribute to the shaping of Filipino character known as ugaling Pilipino.


1. Harmonize various codes or ethical standards vis--vis the conduct of public officials and employees in terms of the current morality and accountability situation prevailing in the public service.

R.A. 6713 otherwise known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees uphold the time-honored principle of public office being a public trust. It also grants incentives and rewards for exemplary service and it enumerates the prohibited acts and transactions and provided penalties for violations thereof.It reiterates the observance of the standards of personal conduct in the discharge and execution of official duties such as : commitment to public interest, professionalism, justness and sincerity, political neutrality, responsiveness to the public, nationalism and patriotism, commitment to democracy and simpler living.To ensure that no public official or employee will divest to his function, R.A. 6713 determines what constitutes prohibited acts and transactions in addition to the act or omission of public officials and employees prescribed by the Constitution and the existing laws. The following include: financial and material interest, outside employment and other activities related thereto, disclosure and misuse of confidential information, solicitation or acceptance of gifts. Any person found to have committed any of the following acts will be subjected to penalty as provided by this Act.Despite the clear provisions of this Act and the penalties prescribed herein, a lot of public officials and employees still continue to commit the prohibited acts and transactions. Based on what I observed in the public service, the ethical standard and morality of public officials are doubtful. They promote and protect their personal vested interest over public interest. A lot of them are engage in illegal transactions and most of the time, they benefit themselves under their guise of their public office or positions for their personal gain at the expense of the public. They view public office as a lucrative business or a way to amass wealth. Very few public officials and employees observe simple living. They interfere in the transactions of the government to promote their personal interest or most of the time, they make use of their position to protect their business, thus conflict of interest arises, but then again this is resolved in their favor.

2. List down and discuss the standards of personal conduct that should be internalized and put into practice by all public officials and employees serving in government.

One of the salient features of R.A. 6713 is Sec.4: Norms and Conduct of Public Officials and Employees mandating them to observe the following standards of personal conduct in the discharge of their official duties:1. Commitment to public interest. Public officials and employees shall always uphold the public interest over and above personal interest. Government resources must be used efficiently, effectively, economically and honestly to avoid wastage in public funds. They should also observe austerity in all their transactions and provide people with public goods and services.2. Professionalism. Public officials and employees shall perform and discharge their duties with the highest degree of excellence, professionalism, intelligence and skills. They shall enter public service with utmost devotion and dedication to duty.3. Justness and Sincerity. Public officials and employees shall remain true to the people at all times. They must act with justness and sincerity and shall not discriminate against anyone, especially the poor and the underprivileged.4. Political Neutrality. Public officials and employees shall provide service to everyone without unfair determination and regardless of party affiliation or preference.5. Responsiveness to the public. Public officials and employees shall extend prompt, courteous, and adequate service to the public.6. Nationalism and Patriotism. Public officials and employees shall at all times loyal to our beloved country and to the Filipino people, promote and use locally produced goods, resources and technology and encourage appreciation and pride of courtesy and people.7. Commitment to Democracy. Public officials and employees shall respect the essence of democracy, maintain public accountability, and uphold and protect our Constitution, serve and protect the people, preserve the integrity of our national territory and sovereignty.8. Simple living. Public officials and employees shall maintain austerity and shall lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income.


MODULE 14

Graft and Corruption

Exercise 1: Give the correct answer by writing the terms or phrases required in the space provided before each of the items found below.Evasion in the public bidding in the awarding of contract 1. They justify giving benefits to unqualified recipients which are very evident in employment and awarding of contracts.

1987 Phil.Constitution2. It established anti-corruption bodies that are considered special independent bodies to support the principles of honesty, integrity, and public accountability.

Lagay system/bribery3. The act of citizens to bribe government officials occupying sensitive positions in government is perpetuated due to bureaucratic red tape.

Grand corruption4. The theft or misuse of vast amounts of public resources by sate-officials usually members of , or associated with, the political or administrative elites constitutes grand corruption.

Extortion5. This is done by government officials against their clients by demanding money, valuable items, or services from ordinary citizens who transact business with them or with their office.

Corruption 6. It has been viewed as a cultural and psychological phenomenon in a country marked by incompatible legal and cultural norms.

Employment of fixers7. It is another method of bribe whereby people will pay certain individuals who may or may not be government employees to process or obtain personal requirements for them.

Graft8. It is a form of political corruption in which officials gains something due to a position of power, trust, or insider knowledge.

Ghost projects & payrolls 9. This is done by high officials of the government whereby non existing projects are financed by the government while non-existing personnel or pensioners are being paid salaries and allowances.

Corruption10. As defined by the PAGC, it involves behavior on the part of the officials in the public sector, whether politicians or civil servants, in which they improperly and unlawfully enrich themselves.


1. Discuss the concept of graft and corruption and include the practices prevailing in the public and private sector.

Graft is a form of political corruption in which an official gains something due to a position of power, trust, or insider knowledge. Corruption on the other hand means the abuse of a public office for personal gain or other illegal or immoral benefit. These two concepts are often used together or associated with one another whenever a public official or employee uses his position for personal gain.Graft and corruption is very rampant not only in the public sector but also in the private sector as well.Public sector corruption is a symptom of failed governance at the country level. Sadly, Philippines is one of the most corrupt nation in the world. Probably that is the reason why we cannot solve the economic crises in our country despite the change in the administration. According to the political slogan of Pres. Noynoy Aquino, di ako magnanakaw..kayo and boss ko. This slogan which created a big impact or appeal to the masses who are already sick and tired of corrupt governance, this probably ensured his victory in the presidential race last May 2010 election. Our difficulty to solve both political and economic problems of our country is often attributed by other politicians to the form of government that we have. But I believed that the problem does not lie to the form of government, and CHACHA is not even the solution to the worsening economic situation of our country. The problem lies to the people who run the government and to the corrupt officials who use the guise of public office for their personal gain.Filipinos are aware that both government officials and businessmen are to be blamed equally for corruption. However, people seem to believe that government officials should be held more closely accountable for wrongdoing than their private counterparts because government activities affect their lives directly.

There are specific types of corruption in the Philippines both prevalent in the public and private sectors. In the case of corruption in the private sector, the question of where corruption is common, more than half of the respondents in September 2000 survey said that it is just the same in the government sector. Below are the types of corruption in the Philippines:1. Tax evasion. This is very rampant particularly in the private sector due to the refusal of those engaged in private enterprise to honestly declare their income and to pay the corresponding taxes to the government.2. Ghost projects and payroll. This is usually done by high officials whereby non-existing projects are financed by the government and non-existing personnel are being paid salaries and allowances.3. Evasion of Public Bidding in the Awarding of Contracts. The Bids and Awards Committee forego the awarding if contracts through public bidding, or award these contracts to favored business enterprises or contractors. To evade bidding, purchasing government agencies would embark on a piece-meal purchasing strategy, whereby small amount of supplies and materials will be bought on a continuous process.4. The practice of passing the contracts from one contractor to another. This is to retain a certain percentage of the value of the project to the contactor and subcontractors resulting to the use of substandard materials or even unfinished projects.5. Nepotism and Favoritism. Government officials appoint their family members, relatives and friends to government positions even if they are not qualified. This is the root cause of inefficiency in the public service.6. Extortion. This is done by government officials to their clients by demanding money, valuable items, or services from ordinary citizens who transact businesses with them or with their office.7. Tong or Protection Money. It is a form of bribery which is done by citizens performing illegal activities and operations. This is to protect them in their illegitimate activities.8. The Lagay System or Bribery. It is an act of citizens to bribe government officials occupying sensitive positions in the government are perpetuated due to bureaucratic red tape. Another method under this is the employment of fixers to process personal requirement for them in exchange of money.

2. How public sector corruption does differ from that of the private sector corruption? How do we reconcile the afore cited question to the assaying it take two to tango in graft and corrupt practices in the public service.

Corruption in the public sector is as bad as the corruption in the private sector. According to the survey, the eight forms of corruption as previously discussed are also prevalent in the private sector but only more serious in the public sector. Graft and corruption is more prevalent in the public sector because of the fact that public officials and employees are entrusted with great deal of money, a temptation on their part. It gives them the tendency to use government or public resources for personal gain. Unlike in the private sector, generally, only the high officials are usually engaged in illegal and immoral activities because of their easy access to the resources of their company or institution where they belong. Another reason why corruption is minimized in the private sector is that employers or company owners keep tract on the expenses/expenditures of their company by employing company accountant. This is to balance their income and expenditures and to check on the possible loopholes.The saying it takes two to tango means any person who engage in graft and corruption be it in the public or private sector connives with other people to perpetuate the illegal act. This is to ensure that their immoral or illegal activity will be kept secret or in case it is discovered, at least they are an ally to make defense for them. Hence, most of the time, graft and corruption is made with conspiracy or connivance for personal enrichment at the expense of the public.


MODULE 15

Remedies: Administrative Code of 1987; Republic Act 6713


Simple living1. A provision of R.A 6713 which states that public officials and employees and their families shall lead a modest lives appropriate to their positions and income.

Relatives2. These refer to any and all persons related to the public official or employee within fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity, including bilas, inso, or balae.

Gift3. It refers to a thing or right disposed gratuitously, or any act of liberality, in favor of another who accepts it, and shall include a simulated sale or an ostensibly onerous disposition thereof.

Positions or gratuities4. They should not be considered additional, double or indirect compensation.

Responsiveness to the public 5. It is the duty of public officials or employees to extend prompt, courteous, and adequate service to the public.

Political neutrality6. A norm which public officials and employees are required to provide service to everyone without unfair discrimination and regardless of party affiliation or preference.

Substantial stockholder7. It refers to any person who owns, directly or indirectly, shares of stock sufficient to elect a director of a corporation.

Commitment to public8. A norm in which public officials and employees are interestrequired to always uphold the public interest over and above personal interest.

Receiving any gift9. It is an act of accepting, directly or indirectly, a gift from a person other than a member of his family or relative.

Responsiveness to the public10. A norm required under RA 6713 in which public officials and employees are required to extend prompt, courteous, and adequate service to the public.


1. Discuss the complementary remedial measures against graft and corrupt practices as provided for under E.O. 292 and R.A.6713.

Since people who are engaged in graft and corruption are dead serious to propagate their illegal activities, then I guess the government should also be very serious and firm in the implementation of the corrective and remedial measures to fight graft and corruption.E.O.292 enumerates the following provisions vis--vis the prohibited acts that public officials and employees should observe in the p-performance of the duties and functions in the civil service.1. No appointive official shall hold office or employment in the government or any subdivision, agency or instrumentality thereof including government-owned and controlled-corporations unless otherwise allowed by law. This is tantamount to double compensation and may result to conflict of interest.2. No elective or appointive officer or employee shall receive additional, double or indirect compensation unless otherwise allowed by law.3. No officer or employee in the Civil Service including members of the Armed Forces shall engage directly or indirectly in any partisan political activity.4. No laborer, whether skilled, semi-skilled or unskilled shall be assigned to perform clerical duties.5. No detail or reassignment shall be made within three months before any election.6.No detail or reassignment in the national, provincial, city and municipal government or any subdivision, agency or instrumentality thereof including government-owned and controlled-corporations with original charters shall be made in favor of a relative of the appointing or recommending authority, or of the chief of the bureau of office, or of the persons exercising immediate supervision over the appointee.7. No discrimination shall be exercised, threatened or promised against, or in favor of, any person examined or to be examined or employed by reason of his political and religious opinions or affiliations, sex or civil status.8. No officer or employee under administrative investigation shall be allowed to resigned pending decision of his case.R.A 6713 enumerates the prohibited acts and transactions as well as the penalties and remedies thereto to control graft and corrupt practices in the government:2. No public official or employee shall maintain financial and material interest in the government or to any transactions of the government.3. No public official or employee shall during their incumbency. Hold outside employment and other related activities thereto.4. No public official or employee shall divulge confidential or classified information officially known to them by reason of their office.5. No public official or employee shall solicit or accept gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties.6. No public official or employee shall divest or shall avoid conflict of interest at all times.Other remedial measures under this Act, is the declaration of the assets and liabilities and financial disclosure of public official and employees upon their assumption in office,, identification of their relatives and accessibility of documents for transparency.These are remedies and corrective measures to prevent graft and corruption in the government.

2.Discuss the prohibited acts and transactions that public officials and employees be restrained in the performance of their duties and responsibilities.

The following are prohibited acts and transactions that public officials and employees be restrained in the performance of their duties and responsibilities:

1. Financial and material interest.No public official or employee shall maintain financial and material interest in the government or to any transactions of the government.

2. Outside employment and other related activities thereto.No public official or employee shall during their incumbency. Hold outside employment and other related activities thereto.

3. Disclosure and/or misuse of confidential information.No public official or employee shall divulge confidential or classified information officially known to them by reason of their office.

4. Solicitation of gifts.No public official or employee shall solicit or accept gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties.


MODULE 16

Remedies: Sandiganbayan and Ombudsman


Inter-agency/Anti- Graft1. An agency of government that coordinates theCoordination Councilgovernment anti- graft and corrupt efforts in the country.

Commission on Audit2. It is an office which serves as the watchdog of the financial operation of the government.

Presidential Commission of3. It is an agency which created primarily to go Good Governance (PCGG)after any alleged ill-gotten wealth.

Ombudsman4. A constitutional office which investigates and acts on complaints filed against public officials and employees, and serves as the peoples watchdog of the government.

Sandiganbayan5. It acts as the anti-graft court of the Philippines and has jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases involving graft and corrupt practices and such other offenses committed by public officials and employees.

Department of Justice6. It conducts preliminary investigation on complaints of a criminal nature against public officials and employees that are filed with it, subject to the approval of the OMB, if the offense investigated was committed by such official or employee in relation to his office.

Ombudsman7. It publicize matters covered by its investigation when circumstances so warrant with due prudence.

Civil Service Commission8. It serves as the central personnel agency of the government which is mandated to establish a career service and promote moral, efficiency, integrity, responsiveness, and courtesy in the civil service.

National Bureau of Investigation9. These law enforcement agencies conduct fact-Philippine National Policefinding investigation on graft and corruption.

R.A. 824910. A law which creates two avenues for trying erring members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other members subject to military laws.


1. Discuss the functions and role of the Sandiganbayan and Office of the Ombudsman in the combat of graft and corrupt practices.

Article XI, sec.4 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that the present anti-graft court known as sandiganbayan shall continue to function and exercise its jurisdiction as now hereunder provided by law. And pursuant to this constitutional provision, R.A. 8249 also known as Act Further Defining the Jurisdiction of the Sandiganbayan was made into law. This Act classifies the Sandiganbyan as a special court and places it at par with the Court of Appeals.Sandiganbayan acts as the anti-graft court of the Philippines. It has jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases involving graft and corrupt practices and such other offenses committed by public officers and employees, it is in charge of maintaining morality, integrity and efficiency in the public service.Sec 5 of article XI of the 1987 Constitution created the independent Office of the Ombudsman which is also to be known as Tanodbayan.The Office of the Ombudsman shall have the following powers, functions and duties. (Sec.13):

a. Investigate on its own, or on complaint by any person, any act or omission of any public official, employee, office or agency, when such act or omission appears to be illegal, unjust, improper, or inefficient.b. Direct upon complaint or its own instance, any public official or employee to perform and expedite any act or duty required by law, or to stop, prevent and correct any abuse or impropriety in the performance of duty.c. Direct the officer concerned to take appropriate action against a public official or employee at fault, and recommend the removal, suspension, demotion, fine, censure or prosecution and ensure compliance therewith.d. Direct the officer concerned, in any appropriate case, subject to such limitations as provided by law, to furnish documents relating to contracts or transactions entered into by his office involving disbursement of public funds.e. Request any government agency for assistance and information necessary in the discharge of its responsibilities.f. Publicized matters covered by its investigation when circumstances so warrant and with due prudence.g. Determine the causes of inefficiency, red tape, mismanagement, fraud, corruption in the government and make recommendations for their elimination.h. Promulgate rule and procedures and exercise such other powers and perform such functions or duties as may be provided by law.

2. Discuss the other measures employed to combat graft and corruption practices by various agencies of government.The government employs various measures, anti-corruption bodies and other agencies to combat the problem of graft and corruption in the Philippines.

A. Legal Measures1. The 1987 Philippine Constitution. Article XI of our Constitution states that a public office is a public trust, public officials and employees must at all times accountable to the people. Sec 2 of the same article provides for impeachment and recall as means of removing erring public officials for betratyi8ng public trust and culpa bale violation of the constitution.2. R.A. 3019 also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices of 1960. This law enumerates all corrupt practices of any public officer, and provides the corresponding penalties.3. Executive Order No.292 or the Administrative Code of 1987. It reiterates the provisions embodied in Sec 1. Of the 1987 Constitution. It also gives the President the power to institute proceedings to recover properties unlawfully acquired by public officials and employees.4. R.A. 6713. This act promotes a high standard of ethics and requires all government personnel to make an accurate statement of assets and liabilities.5. R.A.N.6770 or the Ombudsman Act of 1989. This act provides the functional and structural organization of the Office of the Ombudsman.

Aside from the legal; measures, there are also constitutional bodies created to combat graft and corruption. These are: 1. Ombudsman whose functions are earlier discussed , the Civil Service Commission and the Commission on Audit.

There are also other government anti-corrupt bodies, to wit:

1. Department of Justice. It conducts preliminary investigation on complaint on criminal nature against public officials and employees that are fed with it. It prosecutes cases if the public officials and employees involved belong to the ranks lower than the salary grade 27.

2. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Philippine National Police(PNP). These law enforcement agencies conduct fact0finding investigation on graft and corruption cases.3. Presidential Commission of Good Governance (PCGG). The agency created primary to go after the alleged ill-gotten wealth.4. Presidential Commission Against Graf

Ethics and Accountability

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