CSC bans all gambling for govโt workers, on or off duty, including casinos and online betting, to uphold integrity and public trust. (Image by freepik)
MANILA โ The Civil Service Commission has imposed a sweeping ban on gambling for government officials and employees. The move aims to strengthen ethical standards in public service and restore trust in government institutions.
Under CSC Resolution No. 2600111, government personnel are barred from gambling in almost all forms. The ban covers casinos, online betting platforms and informal gambling. It applies regardless of time or place.
The policy covers national agencies, local governments, autonomous regional governments, state universities and colleges, and government-owned and controlled corporations with original charters.
The resolution expands an earlier advisory issued in September 2025. That rule prohibited gambling only during work hours. The new measure goes much further. It reaches beyond office hours and government premises.
One of its strictest provisions bars public servants from entering or staying in casinos and similar establishments. The ban includes land-based and sea-based venues. Even mere presence in these places can be considered a violation. The only exception is for official duties authorized in writing.
The resolution also targets online gambling. Public employees are prohibited from joining online casinos, e-bingo, e-sabong and other digital betting platforms. The ban applies whether the platforms are based in the Philippines or abroad. It covers the use of both personal and government-issued devices.
Traditional and informal forms of gambling are also prohibited. So are private, social and newly emerging forms of wagering. Government workers are likewise banned from organizing or facilitating such activities.
Officials say the policy is meant to reduce corruption risks. They say gambling can expose public servants to financial pressure and conflicts of interest.
โInvolvement in gambling may expose public servants to financial vulnerability and conflicts of interest, which can undermine impartiality and erode public trust,โ said CSC Chairperson Marilyn Yap.
The commission said the resolution is anchored on the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. It is intended to reinforce professionalism in the bureaucracy.
The rule does allow activities held strictly for charitable or civic purposes. But participation must not create even the appearance of impropriety.
Government agencies have been directed to enforce the policy. Complaints may be filed, including anonymously, through the CSCโs Contact Center ng Bayan and other channels.
Violators may face suspension or dismissal under the 2025 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service. They may also face criminal or civil liability under existing laws.
The resolution was published on April 23. It takes effect after 15 days.
With the new policy, the commission is making a clear point. Integrity in public service does not end after office hours.
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