BAGUIO CITY – An official of the local government emphasized the importance of public servants adhering or complying to the established rules and regulations governing their daily routine.
Acting Assistant City Accountant Pedro Sawac Jr. pointed out that the inherent guidelines are not merely routine formalities but they are the foundation of effective public service and are actually indispensable for delivering exemplary service to the community.
He claimed that as public servants, government officials and employees are continually under scrutiny where their actions are being constantly evaluated by the public and any misstep can have serious repercussions.
“Unfortunately, being in the government service for a long time, we tend to become complacent and sometimes overlook these basic guidelines. However, let us remind ourselves that these rules exist to ensure transparency, accountability and efficiency in our public service,” Sawac stressed.
He explained that prescribed uniforms and identification cards are symbols of professionalism where they project a clear image of who they are and what they represent. For instance, when a client visits the city hall for processing of a permit, seeing public servants in proper attire reassures them that they are dealing with a legitimate and dedicated public servant.
Sawac emphasized that attendance to the regular flag raising ceremony is beyond a procedural requirement and more than a customary event as it embodies their commitment to service and upholding the nation’s principles by participating, public servants demonstrate their respect for those who served before them and their dedication to the responsibilities entrusted to them by the citizens.
According to him, punctuality extends beyond merely arriving on time at work or meetings but it is a reflection of their commitment to their roles and responsibilities as public servants. Being punctual involves starting the work day on time, meeting deadlines and demonstrating reliability in all aspects of their duties. When public servants are punctual, they contribute to a smooth workflow, avoid delays and ensure that they are available to serve the public efficiently.
Sawac stipulated that public servants should regard professional ethics and integrity as their foundational principles that are integral to their duties. It is their most precious and intangible assets, priceless and beyond any monetary value and something that can never be taken away from them. It defines who they are and what they stand for.
“Our integrity serves as our personal signature, a commitment that ensures their words and actions consistently reflect honesty, fairness and accountability,” he added.
Sawac encouraged public servants to integrate the said principles in their daily work, just as accurate balance sheets and income statements are vital for financial transparency and operational success, their adherence to professional attire, punctuality and ethical behavior are the most important assets in maintaining the credibility and efficiency of the public service. By Dexter A. See
