The applications for the upcoming August 2025 Civil Service Examination–Pen and Paper Test (CSE-PPT) are still being accepted by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) from May 13 to June 11, 2025.
The exam will be held at Ifugao State University (IFSU) Lamut Campus as one of the testing centers of the Civil Service Commission–Cordillera Administrative Region (CSC-CAR).
The CSE-PPT administered by CSC grants civil service eligibility. The eligibility exam gives certification for first and second-level government positions once passed the CSC exam, either at the Professional and Subprofessional levels.
Jessica T. Kimayong, Senior Human Resource Specialist at the CSC Ifugao Field Office, emphasized the importance of the exam in building a career in public service.
“Foremost, it is a requirement for most government positions. If you want to be appointed as a permanent employee, you need a CSC eligibility especially for non-board programs,” Kimayong said.
The exam accommodates individuals aged 18 and above, regardless of educational attainment, making it an accessible leverage to a stable career.
Accessible, Yet Digitally Challenged
Aside from the accessibility of the testing center, online registration remains a challenge due to limited internet infrastructure in some areas in Ifugao.
Since the online registration is mandatory and through the Online Career Service Examination Application System (OCSEAS), some applicants struggle with poor internet access. As a response, the CSC field office is open for applicants who wish to register through walk-in.
“We let them use our computers—that is what we refer to as technical assistance to walk-in applicants, but of course, they still have to register themselves,” Kimayong noted.
Youth Respond to the Call
More than just a qualification, the CSC eligibility presents potential ticket for many young Ifugao residents for government and public service.
KC, a 22-year-old college student, who passed the exam in March 2025, credits her sister for motivating her. She is well-informed that this exam gives eligibility and would help her to have a stable job in the future.
“My sister took the CSC exam first. She encouraged me, which is why I took it too. At the same time, I was also aware that it is required for eligibility and would greatly help in my future job,” KC shared.
On the other hand, a 20-year-old college student, Mercilyn, who have not taken the exam yet but has plans in mind, is informed of its importance for her future. She mentioned to take the exams once she is ready.
Kimayong advised: “Once you turn 18, take the exam right away. Your knowledge is still fresh at that age. To qualify for a position, we need to take the eligibility exam. They should take it now, since it does not expire anyway.”
Building Better Public Service
The CSC eligibility is essential for maintaining the quality of public service. The exam assesses applicants’ knowledge of grammar, reading comprehension, and mathematics, skills necessary for efficient decision-making and communication in government positions.
“Even if you have multiple skills, trainings, or even a master’s or PhD, you won’t qualify for the position without passing the CSC or having the required eligibility”, Kimayong explained.
The CSC still uses a merit-based employment process, even if technical skills like welding and carpentry are not evaluated by the exam since they follow alternative eligibility pathways.
A Gateway to Career and Confidence
Despite regular online promotions, the CSC still encounters low awareness among younger students. Kimayong cited the need for stronger coordination with schools to promote the exam’s relevance and benefits.
As the largest employer in the Philippines, the government offers vast opportunities but only to those who are eligible. The CSC continues to utilize CSE-PPT as an essential step for thousands of Filipinos hoping to serve their communities through the civil service.
With the upcoming exam, the CSC invites more youth to take the opportunity. Opening the door not just to a job, but to public service. For more information, you may visit the CSC Ifugao Field Office located within the Schools Division of Ifugao or check the official Facebook page of the CSC for updates.// Rhea Lyn M. Longasa, BSU-DevCom Intern
