Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 17)— The individuals who attended a campaign rally in Ilocos Sur wearing the Department of Health’s (DOH) uniforms are not official employees, the agency clarified on Thursday.
In a statement, the DOH said the people seen on the viral photo are health workers employed or directly engaged by local government units. The department stressed that such personnel are not under its jurisdiction.
But how were they able to secure the uniforms?
“Due to the department’s various health promotion campaigns and outreach programs on the ground, the DOH and its partners have produced and distributed a multitude of shirts and paraphernalia bearing the DOH logo, to health and non-health workers alike,” it explained.
The DOH urged the public “not to use these apolitical materials” to endorse candidates for the May polls.
Based on the picture, at least 20 people wearing green and yellow DOH uniforms were seen in the crowd during a campaign event of former senator Bongbong Marcos and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte in Bantay town.
Both the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) called on the DOH to probe the matter.
No campaigning for govt workers
CSC Commissioner Aileen Lizada highlighted a 2016 joint resolution issued by the CSC and Comelec, which explicitly bans government workers from engaging in electioneering, such as directly showing support and campaigning for candidates and political parties.
Existing rules prohibit public sector workers from attending political meetings and events, using state resources for campaigns, and the wearing of campaign shirts, pins, and other paraphernalia, among other forms of partisan political activities.
— Department of Health (@DOHgovph) February 17, 2022
This is being referred to the regional office of the @DOHgovph for evaluation, appropriate action, and due process. #votesafepilipinas https://t.co/azMYbRgX03
— James Jimenez (@jabjimenez) February 17, 2022
