MANILA – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) warned police officers that accepting gifts of monetary value as bribe or favor from people violates the law and oath of service.
DILG secretary Eduardo Año on Tuesday said policemen, including employees of the DILG, may be criminally and administratively held liable if they solicit gifts of monetary value while on duty.
“Although an exception is provided for in the law, may we remind our fellow workers in government, especially those in the Philippine National Police, that your services are already fully paid by the people through their taxes,” Año said.
“Gifts in exchange of favors or as form of bribe are a direct violation of the police’s oath of service and the law,” he added.
Año’s statement opposed President Rodrigo Duterte, who recently said he “found nothing wrong with cops receiving gifts, especially from people expressing their gratitude.”
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, meanwhile, pointed out Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act which enumerates exemptions from the anti-graft provisions.
“Unsolicited gifts of nominal or insignificant value not given in anticipation of, or in exchange for, a favor from a public official or employee are likewise an exemption under Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees,” said Panelo./PN
