Revised Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service

table of contents

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GENERAL PROVISIONS

Rule1. ApplicabilityandConstruction Rule2. JurisdictionandVenueofActions

DISCIPLINARY CASES

Rule 3. Complaint Rule4. PreliminaryInvestigation Rule 5. Formal Charge Rule 6. Answer Rule7. PreventiveSuspension Rule8. FormalInvestigation Rule 9. Decision

PENALTIES

RuleI0. ScheduleofPenalties

REMEDIES

Rule11. SettlementinAdministrativeCases

MotionforReconsiderationin Disciplinary Cases

Rule 12. Appeal in Disciplinary Cases Rule13. PetitionforReview Rule14.RemovalofAdministrativePenaltiesor Disabilities

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CONTEMPT OF THE COMMISSION

RuleI5. ProcedureforContempt

NON-DISCIPLINARY CASES

RuleI6. InvalidationorDisapprovalof Appointment Rule 17. Protest Rule18. CorrectionofPersonalInformationin theRecordsoftheCommission Rule19.DroppingfromtheRolls Rule20. ExtensionofService Rule21.AccreditationofService Rule22.RequesttoDeclarePositionas Non-Career/Career Rule 23. Remedies in Non-Disciplinary Cases

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Rule24.FeesandOtherMatters

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Foreword

The Civil Service Commission is the premier human resourceinstitutionofthegovernment.Partofitsconstitutionalmandateis topromulgate rulesandprocedures relating tocivil servicematters,includingadministrativedisciplineofcivilservants.Pursuantto its stated mandate, the Commission has through the yearsformulated the necessary procedural guidelines thatwould governthedispositionofcivilservicecasesandmatters.

Essentially,theneedtopromulgateproceduralguidelinescannotbe overemphasized. They ensure a certain degree of consistency,predictabilityandstability,whichvaluesareintegralinupholdingtherule of law. Indeed,with rules and regulations properly laid down,there would be less occasion for personal whims and caprices. Inotherwords,arbitrarinesswouldbereducedinthedecision-makingprocess.Needlesstostate, thedecision-makerswouldbeguided intheir courseofactions,whether itbe indecidingdisciplinary casesinvolving their own workforce or in adjudicating actions involvingotherpersonnelactions.

For quite sometime, the rules of procedure governing thedispositionofbothdisciplinaryandnon-disciplinarycasesinthecivilservicehavebeenembodiedintheUniformRulesinAdministrativeCases in the Civil Service (URACCS), which the Commissionpromulgated in 1999 to supplant the earlier procedural guidelines. Thisissuancehasworkedwellbutjustlikeanyhumancreation,ithasalsoitsownshareofflawsandshortcomings,whichhavemanifestedthrough the years.

Intentonaddressing these infirmities, andconsistentwith itscurrentthrusttoachievezerobacklogofcasesandthedispositionofcaseswithinfortydays,theCommissionhasrevisitedtheURACCSandafterrigorousandpainstakingreview,theresultisnowwhatisinyou

handtheRevisedRulesonAdministrativeCasesintheCivilService(RRACCS).TheCommissionhopesthattheRRACCSwouldbeabletocontributetothemoreeffectivedispensationofadministrativejustice.

Yet,theCommissionisquicktoaddthattheRRACCSisaworkinprogress. Its enactment shall not mean that it would not anymore be subjecttorigorousscrutiny.Asamatteroffact,theCommissionwouldindubitablywelcomeinsights,suggestionsandrecommendationsonhowtoenhanceit.Afterall,itcherishesthecontinuedandunremittingsupportofallstakeholdersinthissignificantundertaking.

ThankyouandMabuhay!

FRANCISCO T. DUQUE III, MD, MSc Chairman

December 2011

REVISED RULES ON ADMINISTRATIVE Number: 1101502CASES IN THE CIVIL SERVICE(RRACCS) Promulgated:Nov.8,2011x------------------------------------------------------x

RESOLUTION

Pursuant to Section 6, Article IX-A of the 1987 Constitution, the CivilServiceCommissionen banc may promulgate its own rules concerning pleadings andpracticesbefore itorbeforeanyof itsoffices. Suchruleshowevershallnotdiminish,increase,ormodifysubstantiverights.Likewise,Section12(2),Chapter3,TitleI,Subtitle(A),BookVoftheAdministrativeCodeof1987(ExecutiveOrderNo.292)empowerstheCivilServiceCommissionamongothers,toprescribe,amendandenforcerulesandregulationstoeffectivelycarryintoeffecttheprovisionsofthe Civil Service Lawandotherpertinent lawswhich includes theprocedure inadministrativecasesintheCivilService.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Commission hereby adopts and promulgatesthe following rules concerning disciplinary and non-disciplinary proceedings inadministrativecasesintheCivilService.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Rule 1

APPLICABILITY AND CONSTRUCTION

Section 1. Title.ThisRulesshallbeknownandcitedastheRevised Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service (RRACCS).

Section 2. Coverage. This Rules shall apply to all disciplinary and non-disciplinary administrative cases brought before the Civil Service Commission,agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, local governmentunits, and government-owned or controlled corporations with original chartersexcept as may be provided by law.

SexualharassmentcasesshallbeprimarilygovernedbytheAdministrativeRules on Sexual Harassment Cases (CSC Resolution No. 01-0940 datedMay 21,2001).ThisRulesshallapplysuppletorilytosaidcases.

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Section 3. Construction. This Rules shall be liberally construed in order to promote theirobjective inobtaining just, speedy,and inexpensivedispositionofadministrativecases.

Administrativeinvestigationsshallbeconductedwithoutstrictrecoursetothetechnicalrulesofprocedureandevidenceapplicabletojudicialproceedings.

Section 4. Definition of Terms. The terms hereunder shall be construed asfollows:

a. AGENCY refers to any bureau, office, commission, administration,board, committee, institute, corporation with original charter,whether performing governmental or proprietary function, or anyotherunitof thenationalgovernmentaswellasprovincial,cityormunicipal government.

b. APPOINTING OFFICERreferstothepersonorbodydulyauthorizedtoissue appointments in the civil service.

c. CIVIL SERVICE is the generic term which refers to all men andwomeninallbranches,subdivisions,instrumentalitiesandagenciesof the Government, including government-owned or controlledcorporationswithoriginalcharters.

d. CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION FIELD OFFICES (CSCFOs) refer to theCivilServiceCommissionFieldOfficesunderthedirectsupervisionoftheCivilServiceCommissionRegionalOffice,eachheadedbyaFieldDirector.

e. CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION REGIONAL OFFICES (CSCROs) referto the sixteen (16) Civil Service Commission Regional Offices andthosethatmaybesubsequentlycreated,eachheadedbyaRegionalDirector.

f. COMMISSION refers to the Civil Service Commission composed oftheChairmanandtwo(2)Commissioners.

g. DEPARTMENTreferstoanyoftheexecutivedepartmentsorentitieshaving the category of a department, including the judiciary,legislativeandtheotherconstitutionalcommissions.

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h. DISCIPLINING AUTHORITY refers to the person or body dulyauthorizedtoimposethepenaltyprovidedforbylaworrules.

i. FORUM-SHOPPINGreferstothefilingofseveraladministrativeactionsor complaint either simultaneously or successively before anotheragencyoranytribunalhavingjurisdictionoverthecaseagainstthesameparty involving the sameessential facts, circumstances, acts,causesofactionorrelief,andallraisingsubstantiallythesameissueseither pending in, or already resolved adversely by, some othertribunal or agency.

j. PARTY ADVERSELY AFFECTED refers to the respondent againstwhomadecisioninanadministrativecasehasbeenrenderedortothediscipliningauthority inanappeal fromadecisionreversingormodifyingtheoriginaldecision.

k. PERSON COMPLAINED OFreferstothepersonwhoisthesubjectofacomplaintbutwhoisnotyetissuedanoticeofcharge/sorformalcharge by the disciplining authority.

l. PERSONNEL ACTION refers to any action denoting themovementor progress of personnel in the Civil Service which shall includeappointment promotion, transfer, reinstatement, reemployment,reappointment, detail, reassignment, secondment, demotion andseparationfromtheservice.

m. PROBATIONARY EMPLOYEEreferstotheemployeewhoisrequiredto undergo a thorough character investigation and assessment ofcapabilitytoperformthedutiesofthepositionenumeratedinthePositionDescriptionForm(PDF).

n. RESPONDENTreferstothepersonwhoisissuedanoticeofcharge/sorformalchargebythediscipliningauthority.

o. QUALIFIED NEXT-IN-RANK refers to the employee appointed on apermanentbasistoapositionpreviouslydeterminedtobeanext-in-ranktothevacancyandwhomeetstherequirementsforappointmentthereto as previously determined by the appointing authority andapproved by the Commission.

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Rule 2

JURISDICTION AND VENUE OF ACTIONS

Section 5. Jurisdiction of the Civil Service Commission.TheCivilServiceCommission shall hear and decide administrative cases instituted by or broughtbefore it, directly or on appeal, including contested appointments and reviewdecisionsandactionsofitsofficesandoftheagenciesattachedtoit.

Section 6. Referral of Case or Matter to the Proper Office. - In the event that an administrative case ormatter is filed before the Commission or any ofits Regional Offices, but jurisdiction over such case or matter properly belongsto another CSCRO or to the Commission, the same shall be forwarded to theappropriateoffice.

Section 7. Cases Cognizable by the Civil Service Commission. The Civil ServiceCommissionshalltakecognizanceofthefollowingcases:

A. Disciplinary

1. DecisionsofCivilServiceCommissionRegionalOfficesbroughtbeforeitonappealorpetitionforreview;

2. Decisionsofheadsofagenciesimposingpenaltiesexceedingthirty (30) days suspension or fine in an amount exceedingthirty(30)dayssalarybroughtbeforeitonappeal;

3. Complaints brought against Civil Service Commissionpersonnel;

4. Complaints against officials who are not presidentialappointees;

5. Decisions of heads of agencies imposing penalties notexceeding30dayssuspensionorfineequivalenttheretobutviolatingdueprocess;

6. RequestsfortransferofvenueofhearingoncasesbeingheardbyCivilServiceCommissionRegionalOffices;

7. Appealsfromtheorderofpreventivesuspension;and

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8. Suchotheractionsorrequestsinvolvingissuesarisingoutoforinconnectionwiththeforegoingenumeration.

B. Non-Disciplinary

1. Decisionsofheadsofagenciesonpersonnelactions;

2. DecisionsofCivilServiceCommissionRegionalOffices;

3. Requests for favorable recommendation on petition for theremovalofadministrativepenaltiesordisabilities;

4. Protests against appointments, or other personnel actions,involvingnon-presidentialappointees;

5. RequestsforExtensionofService;

6. Reassignment of public health workers and public socialworkersbroughtbeforeitonappeal;

7. Requestforcorrectionofpersonalinformationintherecordsof the Commission within five (5) years before mandatoryretirement;and

8. Suchotheranalogousactionsorpetitionsarisingoutoforinrelationwiththeforegoingenumeration.

Section 8. Cases Cognizable by Regional Offices. Except as otherwise directedby theCommission, theCivil ServiceCommissionRegionalOffices shalltakecognizanceofthefollowingcases:

A. Disciplinary

1. Cases initiated by, or brought before, the Civil ServiceCommission RegionalOffices provided that the alleged actsor omissionswere committedwithin the jurisdiction of theRegionalOffice,includingCivilServiceexaminationanomaliesor irregularitiesand/or thepersonscomplainedofare rank-and-fileemployeesofagencies,localornational,withinsaidgeographicalareas;

2. Complaints involving Civil Service Regional Office personnelwhoareappointeesofsaidoffice;and

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3. Petitionstoplacerespondentunderpreventivesuspension.

B. Non-Disciplinary

1. Disapproval/RecallofApproval/Invalidationofappointmentsbroughtbeforeitonappeal;

2. Decisionsofheadsofagencies,exceptthoseofthedepartmentsecretaries and bureau heads within their geographical boundaries relative toprotests andotherpersonnel actionsand other non-disciplinary actions brought before it onappeal;and

3. Requestsforaccreditationofservices;and

4. RequestsforcorrectionofpersonalinformationintherecordsoftheCommissionnotfallingunderSection7(B)Item7ofthisRules.

Section 9. Jurisdiction of Heads of Agencies.TheSecretariesandheadsofagencies,andotherinstrumentalities,provinces,citiesandmunicipalitiesshallhaveoriginalconcurrentjurisdictionwiththeCommissionovertheirrespectiveofficersandemployees.Theyshalltakecognizanceofcomplaintsinvolvingtheirrespectivepersonnel.Theirdecisionsshallbefinalincasethepenaltyimposedissuspensionfornotmorethanthirty(30)daysorfineinanamountnotexceedingthirty(30)dayssalary.Incasethedecisionrenderedbyabureauorofficeheadisappealableto the Commission, the samemay be initially appealed to the department andfinallytotheCommissionandpendingappeal,thesameshallbeexecutoryexceptwhenthepenaltyisremoval,inwhichcasethesameshallbeexecutoryonlyafterconfirmationbytheSecretaryconcerned.

DISCIPLINARY CASES

Rule 3

COMPLAINT

Section 10. Who May Initiate.Administrativeproceedingsmaybeinitiatedby the disciplining authority motu propriooruponcomplaintofanyotherperson.

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Section 11. Requisites of a Valid Complaint.Exceptwheninitiatedbythedisciplining authority or his/her authorized representative, no complaint againsta civil service official or employee shall be givendue course unless the same isinwriting,subscribedandsworntobythecomplainant.Incasesinitiatedbytheproperdisciplining authority or his/her authorized representative, a show causeorderissufficient.

No anonymous complaint shall be entertained unless there is obvious truth ormerittotheallegationsthereinorsupportedbydocumentaryordirectevidence,inwhichcasethepersoncomplainedofmayberequiredtocomment.

The complaint in triplicate copies shall be written in a clear, simple andconciselanguageandinasystematicmannerastoapprisethepersoncomplainedof,ofthenatureandcauseoftheaccusationagainsthim/herandtoenablehim/hertointelligentlypreparehis/herdefenseoranswer/comment.However,shouldtherebemorethanone(1)personcomplainedof,thecomplainantisrequiredtosubmitadditionalcopiescorrespondingtothenumberofpersonscomplainedof.

Thecomplaintshallcontainthefollowing:

a. fullnameandaddressofthecomplainant;

b. fullnameandaddressoftheperson/scomplainedofaswellashis/her/theirposition/sandoffice/s;

c. anarrationoftherelevantandmaterialfactswhichshowstheactsoromissionsallegedlycommitted;

d. certifiedtruecopiesofdocumentaryevidenceandaffidavitsofhis/herwitnesses,ifany;and

e. certificationorstatementofnon-forumshopping.

The absence of any of the aforementioned requirementsmay cause thedismissalofthecomplaintwithoutprejudicetoitsrefilinguponcompliancewiththe above requirements.

Section 12. When and Where to File a Complaint. Except when otherwise provided for by law, an administrative complaint may be filed at anytime withthe Commission or any of its RegionalOffices, heads of departments, agencies,provinces,cities,municipalitiesandotherinstrumentalities.

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Anna Kathrina Fernandez

Anna Kathrina Fernandez

Section 13. Withdrawal of the Complaint.Thewithdrawalofthecomplaintdoesnotresultinitsoutrightdismissalnordischargethepersoncomplainedoffromanyadministrativeliability.Wherethereisobvioustruthormerittotheallegationin the complaint or where there is documentary evidence that would tend to prove theguiltoftheperson/scomplainedof,thesameshouldbegivenduecourse.

Section 14. Action on the Complaint.Uponreceiptofacomplaintwhichis sufficient in form and substance, the disciplining authority shall require theperson/scomplainedoftosubmitaCounter-Affidavit/Commentunderoathwithinthree(3)daysfromreceiptoforderrequiringhim/her/theircomment/s.

Rule 4

PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION

Section 15. Preliminary Investigation; Definition. A Preliminary Investigation is a proceeding undertaken to determine whether a prima faciecase exists towarrant the issuance of a formal charge. It involves a fact-findinginvestigationoranex-parteexaminationofrecordsanddocumentssubmittedbythe complainant and the person/s complained of, aswell as documents readilyavailablefromothergovernmentoffices.

Section 16. How conducted. Within five (5) days from receipt of thecomplaint sufficient in formand substance, theperson/s complainedof shallberequiredtosubmithis/her/theircounter-affidavit/comment.Wherethecomplaintisinitiatedbythediscipliningauthority,thediscipliningauthorityorhisauthorizedrepresentative shall issue a show-cause memorandum directing the person/scomplainedoftoexplainwhynoadministrativecaseshouldbefiledagainsthim/her/them.Thelattersfailuretosubmitthecomment/counter-affidavit/explanationshall be considered a waiver thereof and the preliminary investigation may becompletedevenwithouthis/hercounter-affidavit/comment.

If necessary, the parties may be summoned to a conference where theinvestigatormaypropoundclarificatoryandotherrelevantquestions.

For cases filed before the Commission or any of its RegionalOffices, thepreliminaryinvestigationmaybeentrustedtolawyersofotheragenciespursuanttoSection117ofthisRules.

Section 17. Duration of the Investigation. A preliminary investigationshallcommencenotlaterthanfive(5)daysfromreceiptofthecomplaintbythediscipliningauthorityandshallbeterminatedwithintwenty(20)daysthereafter.

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Section 18. Investigation Report.Withinfive(5)daysfromtheterminationof the preliminary investigation, the investigating officer shall submit theInvestigationReportwithrecommendationandthecompleterecordsofthecaseto the disciplining authority.

Section 19. Decision or Resolution After Preliminary Investigation. Ifaprima facie caseisestablishedduringtheinvestigation,thediscipliningauthoritymayissueeitheraformalchargeoranoticeofcharge/spursuanttoRule5ofthisRules.

Intheabsenceofaprima facie case,thecomplaintshallbedismissed.

Rule 5

FORMAL CHARGE

Section 20. Issuance of Formal Charge; Contents. After a finding ofa prima facie case, the disciplining authority shall formally charge the personcomplained of,who shall nowbe called as respondent. The formal charge shallcontainaspecificationofcharge/s,abriefstatementofmaterialorrelevantfacts,accompaniedbycertifiedtruecopiesofthedocumentaryevidence,ifany,swornstatementscoveringthetestimonyofwitnesses,adirectivetoanswerthecharge/sinwriting,underoathinnotlessthanseventy-two(72)hoursfromreceiptthereof,anadvicefortherespondenttoindicateinhis/heranswerwhetherornothe/sheelectsaformalinvestigationofthecharge/s,andanoticethathe/shemayopttobeassistedbyacounselofhis/herchoice.

Section 21. Notice of Charge/s. In instances where the complaint was initiatedbyapersonotherthanthediscipliningauthority,thediscipliningauthoritymay issueawrittennoticeof thecharge(s)against thepersoncomplainedof towhich shall be attached copies of the complaint, sworn statement and otherdocuments submitted. The notice shall contain the charges against the personcomplainedofwithastatementthataprima facie case exists. It shall also include a directivetoanswerthecharge(s)inwriting,underoathinnotlessthanseventy-two(72)hoursfromreceiptthereof,andanoticethathe/shemayopttobeassistedbyacounselofhis/herchoice.

Section 22. Prohibited Pleadings. - The disciplining authority shall not entertain requests for clarification, bills of particulars, motions to dismiss ormotions toquashormotions for reconsideration. If anyof thesepleadings areinterposedbytherespondent,thesameshallbeconsideredananswerandshallbeevaluated as such.

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Anna Kathrina Fernandez

Rule 6

ANSWER

Section 23. Requisites and Contents.Theanswer,whichisinwritingandunderoath,shallbespecificandshallcontainmaterialfactsandapplicablelaws,ifany, includingdocumentaryevidence, sworn statements covering testimoniesofwitnesses,iftherebeany,insupportofonescase.

Section 24. Failure to File an Answer. If therespondent failsor refusestofilehis/heranswertotheformalchargeornoticeofcharge/swithintheperiodprovided in the formalchargeornoticeofcharge/swhichshallnotbe less thanthree (3) days from receipt thereof, he/she shall be considered to havewaivedhis/her right to submit the same and the case may be decided based on available records.

Rule 7

PREVENTIVE SUSPENSION

Section 25. Preventive Suspension, nature.Preventivesuspensionisnotapenalty. It is designedmerely as a measureof precautionso that theofficialoremployeechargedmayberemovedfromthesceneofhis/herallegedmisfeasance/malfeasance/nonfeasancewhilethesameisbeinginvestigated.

Section 26. When Issued; Grounds.Uponpetitionofthecomplainantormotu proprio, theproperdiscipliningauthoritymay issueanorderofpreventivesuspensionuponserviceoftheformalchargeornoticeofcharge/s,orimmediatelythereaftertoanysubordinateofficeroremployeeunderhis/herauthoritypendinganinvestigation,if

A) Thechargeinvolves:

1. Dishonesty;2. Oppression;3. GraveMisconduct;4. NeglectinthePerformanceofDuty;5. Administrative offenses which are punishable by dismissal

fromtheserviceonitssecondorthirdoffense;or6. Iftherearereasonstobelievethattherespondentisguilty

ofchargeswhichwouldwarranthis/herremovalfromtheservice.

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B) An order of preventive suspension may be issued to temporarilyremove the respondent from the scene of his/her misfeasance,malfeasanceornonfeasancetoprecludethepossibilityof:

1. exertingundueinfluenceorpressureonthewitnessesagainsthim/her,or

2. tampering with evidence that may be used against him/her.

C) In lieuofpreventivesuspension, for thesamepurpose, theproperdiscipliningauthorityorheadofoffice,mayreassignrespondenttootherunitoftheagencyduringtheformalhearings.

Section 27. Duration of Preventive Suspension. Unless otherwise provided forbylaw,thediscipliningauthoritymayplacetherespondentunderpreventivesuspensionforamaximumperiodofninety(90)daysinthecaseofnationalagenciesorsixty(60)daysinthecaseoflocalgovernmentunits.Whentheadministrativecaseagainstanofficeroremployeeunderpreventivesuspensionisnotfinallydecidedby thedisciplining authoritywithin theperiodof preventive suspension, he/sheshallbeautomaticallyreinstatedintheserviceunlessthedelayinthedispositionofthecaseisduetothefault,negligenceorpetitionoftherespondent,inwhichcase,theperiodofdelayshallnotbeincludedinthecountingoftheperiodofpreventivesuspension.Anyperiodofdelaycausedbymotionsfiledbytherespondentshallbeaddedtotheperiodofpreventivesuspension.Provided,thatwheretheorderofpreventivesuspensionisforaperiodlessthanthemaximumperiod,thediscipliningauthorityundertakestofinishtheformalinvestigationwithinthesaidperiodandisprecludedfromimposinganotherpreventivesuspension.Provided,further,thatshouldtherespondentbeonauthorizedleave,saidpreventivesuspensionshallbedeferredorinterrupteduntilsuchtimethatsaidleavehasbeenfullyexhausted.

Section 28. Remedies from the Order of Preventive Suspension. The respondentmayfile an appeal to theCommissionwithin fifteen (15) days fromreceipt thereof. Pending appeal, the same shall be executory. A motion forreconsiderationfromtheorderofpreventivesuspensionshallnotbeallowed.

Section 29. Payment of Back Salaries During Preventive Suspension. The paymentofbacksalariesduringtheperiodofsuspensionshallbegovernedbythefollowing:

a. A declaration by the Commission that an order of preventivesuspensionisnullandvoidonitsfaceentitlestherespondentofficialor employee to immediate reinstatement and payment of back

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salaries corresponding to the period of the unlawful preventivesuspensionwithoutawaitingtheoutcomeofthemaincase.

The phrase null and void on its face in relation to a preventivesuspensionorder,importsanyofthefollowingcircumstances:

i) Theorderwasissuedbyonewhoisnotauthorizedbylaw;

ii) TheorderwasnotpremisedonanyoftheconditionsunderSection26(AandB)ofthisRule;

iii) The order of preventive suspension was issued without aformalchargeornoticeofcharges;

iv) Whilelawfulinthesensethatitisbasedontheenumeratedgrounds,thedurationoftheimposedpreventivesuspensionhas exceeded the prescribed periods, in which case thepaymentofbacksalariesshallcorrespondtotheexcessperiodonly.

b. AdeclarationofinvalidityofapreventivesuspensionordernotbasedonanyofthereasonsenumeratedinSection29(a),shallresultinthereinstatementoftheofficialoremployeeconcerned.Thepaymentofbacksalariesshall,however,awaitthefinaloutcomeoftheprincipalcase.Iftheofficialoremployeeisfullyexoneratedofthecharge/sorwhenthepenaltyimposedintheprincipalcaseisreprimand,heorsheshallbepaidsuchbacksalaries.Otherwise,nobacksalariesshallbe awarded.

Thephrasefullexonerationcontemplatesafindingofnotguilty for theoffense/scharged. Downgrading of the chargetoa lesseroffenseshallnotbeconstruedasfullexonerationwithinthecontemplationoftheseguidelines.

Eveniftherespondentofficialoremployeebeeventuallyfoundinnocentofthecharge/sprofferedagainsthim/her,thesameshallnotgiverisetopaymentofbacksalariescorrespondingtotheperiodofpreventivesuspensionintheabsenceofanyfindingofitsillegality.

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Rule 8

FORMAL INVESTIGATION

Section 30. Conduct of Formal Investigation; When Held. A formalinvestigationshallbeconductedbythediscipliningauthoritywherethemeritsofthecasecannotbedecidedjudiciouslywithoutconductingsuchinvestigationorwhentherespondentelectstohaveone,inwhichcase,theinvestigationshallbeheldnotearlierthanfive(5)daysnorlaterthanten(10)daysfromreceiptoftherespondentsanswerorupontheexpirationoftheperiodtoanswer.Saidinvestigationshallbefinishedwithinthirty(30)daysfromtheissuanceoftheformalchargeunlesstheperiod is extended by the disciplining authority in meritorious cases.

Forthispurpose, theCommissionmayentrust the formal investigationtolawyersofotheragenciespursuanttoSection117ofthisRules.

Section 31. Submission of Position Paper/Memorandum.Atanystageoftheproceedings,thepartiesmay,basedontheirmutualconsent,submitpositionpaper/memorandum and submit the case for resolution without any need forfurtherhearings.

Section 32. Pre-Hearing Conference.Atthecommencementoftheformalinvestigation, the hearing officer shall conduct a pre-hearing conference for thepartiestoappear,considerandagreeonanyofthefollowing:

a. Stipulationoffacts;b. Simplificationofissues;c. Identificationandmarkingofevidenceoftheparties;d. Waiverofobjectionstoadmissibilityofevidence;e. Limitingthenumberofwitnesses,andtheirnames;f. Datesofsubsequenthearings;andg. Suchothermattersasmayaidinthepromptandjustresolutionof

the case.

Theagreemententered intoduring thepre-hearingconference isbindingonbothpartiesunless in the interestof justice, thehearingofficermayallowadeviationfromthesame.

Theconductofapre-hearingconferenceismandatory. Thefailureoftherespondenttoattendthepre-hearingconferenceconstitutesawaivertoparticipateinthepre-hearingconferencebutmaystillparticipateintheformalinvestigationuponappropriatemotion.

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Section 33. Continuous Hearing Until Terminated; Postponement. HearingsshallbeconductedonthehearingdatessetbytheHearingOfficerorasagreeduponduringthepre-hearingconference.

Each party may be granted one (1) postponement upon oral or writtenrequest.

If respondent fails or refuses to appear or is not represented by counselduringthescheduledhearingsdespiteduenotice,theinvestigationshallproceedand the respondent shall be deemed to have waived his/her right to present evidenceinhis/herfavorduringthesaidhearing.

Section 34. Preliminary Matters.Atthestartofthehearing,thehearingofficer shall note the appearances of the parties and shall proceed with thereceptionofevidenceforthecomplainant.

Ifafterbeingapprisedoftherighttocounsel,respondentappearswithouttheaidofacounsel,he/sheshallbedeemedtohavewaivedhis/herrightthereto.

Beforetakingthetestimonyofawitness,thehearingofficershallplacehim/herunderoathandthentakehis/hername,address,civilstatus,age,andcompletenameandaddressofemployment.

Aswornstatementofthewitness/esproperlyidentifiedandaffirmedshallconstitutedirecttestimony,copyfurnishedtheotherparty.

Clarificatoryquestionsmayalsobeasked.

Section 35. Appearance of Counsel.AnycounselwhoisamemberoftheBarappearingbeforeanyhearingorinvestigationshallmanifestorallyorinwriting,his/herappearanceforeithertherespondentorcomplainant,statinghis/herfullname,RollNumber,IBPreceiptandcompleteaddresswhichshouldnotbeaP.O.boxaddresswherehe/shecanbeservedwithnoticesandotherpleadings.Ifthelawyerisagovernmentemployee,he/sheshallberequiredtopresentanauthorityto practice professionwhich should come from the agency head or the agencyheadsauthorizedrepresentative.

Section 36. Order of Hearing.Unlessthehearingofficerdirectsotherwise,theorderofhearingmaybeasfollows:

a. Theprosecutionshallpresentitsevidence;b. Therespondentshallpresentevidenceinsupportofhis/herdefense;

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c. Theremayberebuttalorsur-rebuttal;

Whenthepresentationofthewitnesseshasbeenconcluded,thepartiesshallformallyoffertheirevidenceeitherorallyorinwritingandthereafterobjectionstheretomayalsobemadeeitherorallyorinwriting.Afterwhich,bothpartiesmaybegiventimetosubmittheirrespectivememorandumwhichinnocaseshallbebeyondfive(5)daysaftertheterminationoftheinvestigation.Failuretosubmitthesamewithinthegivenperiodshallbeconsideredawaiverthereof.

Section 37. Objections.Allobjectionsraisedduringthehearingshallberesolvedby thehearingofficer. However,objections that cannotbe ruleduponbythehearingofficershallbenotedwiththeinformationthatthesameshallbeincluded in thememorandum of the concerned party to be ruled upon by theproper disciplining authority.

Thehearingofficershalladmitallevidenceformallyofferedsubjecttotheobjection/sinterposedagainstitsadmission.

Section 38. Markings. All documentary evidence or exhibits shall be properlymarked by letters (A,B,C, etc.) if presented by the prosecution and bynumbers(1,2,3,etc.)ifpresentedbytherespondent.Theseshallformpartofthecompleterecordsofthecase.

Section 39. Issuance of Subpoena.Thehearingofficermayissuesubpoena ad testificandum to compel the attendance of witnesses and subpoena ducestecumfortheproductionofdocumentsorthings.

If a party desires the attendance of a witness and/or the production ofdocuments,he/sheshallmakearequestfortheissuanceofthenecessarysubpoena ad testificandum and/or subpoena duces tecum,atleastseven(7)daysbeforethescheduled hearing.

Section 40. Record of Proceedings.Recordsoftheproceedingsduringtheformalinvestigationmaybetakeninshorthandorstenotypeoranyothermeansofrecording.

Section 41. Filing of Pleadings.Allpleadingsfiledbythepartieswiththediscipliningauthorityshallbecopyfurnishedtheotherpartywithproofofservice.Anypleadingssentbyregisteredmailshallbedeemedfiledonthedateshownbythepostmarkontheenvelopewhichshallbeattachedtotherecordsofthecaseandincaseofpersonaldelivery,thedatestampedthereonbythediscipliningoffice.

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Section 42. Effects of the Pendency of an Administrative Case. Pendency ofanadministrativecaseshallnotdisqualifyrespondentfrompromotionandotherpersonnelactionsorfromclaimingmaternity/paternitybenefits.

Forthispurpose,apendingadministrativecaseshallbeconstruedassuchwhenthediscipliningauthorityhasissuedaformalchargeoranoticeofcharge/sto the respondent .

Section 43. Formal Investigation Report. Within fifteen (15) days aftertheconclusionoftheformal investigation,areportcontaininganarrationofthematerialfactsestablishedduringtheinvestigation,thefindingsandtheevidencesupportingsaidfindings,aswellastherecommendations,shallbesubmittedbythehearingofficertothediscipliningauthority.Thecompleterecordsofthecaseshallbeattachedtothereportofinvestigation.

Thecompleterecordsshallbesystematicallyandchronologicallyarranged,pagedandsecurelyboundtopreventloss.Atableofcontentsshallbeprepared.

Rule 9

DECISION

Section 44. When Case is Decided. The disciplining authority shall decide thecasewithinthirty(30)daysfromreceiptoftheFormalInvestigationReport.

Section 45. Finality of Decisions. A decision rendered by the disciplining authoritywherebyapenaltyofsuspensionfornotmorethanthirty(30)daysorafineinanamountnotexceedingthirty(30)dayssalaryisimposed,shallbefinal,executoryandnotappealableunlessamotionforreconsideration is seasonablyfiled.However,therespondentmayfileanappealwhentheissueraisedisviolationofdueprocess.

If thepenalty imposed issuspensionexceedingthirty (30)days,orfine inanamountexceedingthirty(30)dayssalary,thesameshallbefinalandexecutoryafterthelapseofthereglementaryperiodforfilingamotionforreconsiderationoranappealandnosuchpleadinghasbeenfiled.

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PENALTIES

Rule 10

SCHEDULE OF PENALTIES

Section 46. Classification of Offenses. Administrative offenses withcorrespondingpenaltiesareclassifiedintograve,lessgraveorlight,dependingontheirgravityordepravityandeffectsonthegovernmentservice.

A. Thefollowinggraveoffensesshallbepunishablebydismissalfromthe service :

1. SeriousDishonesty;2. GrossNeglectofDuty;3. GraveMisconduct;4. BeingNotoriouslyUndesirable;5. Convictionofacrimeinvolvingmoralturpitude;6. Falsificationofofficialdocument;7. Physical or mental incapacity or disability due to immoral or

vicioushabits;8. Receivingforpersonaluseofafee,giftorothervaluablething

in the course of official duties or in connection therewithwhen such fee, gift or other valuable thing is given by anypersoninthehopeorexpectationofreceivingafavororbettertreatmentthanthataccordedtootherpersons,orcommittingactspunishableundertheanti-graftlaws;

9. Contracting loansofmoneyorotherproperty frompersonswithwhomtheofficeoftheemployeehasbusinessrelations;

10. Solicitingoracceptingdirectlyorindirectly,anygift,gratuity,favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary valuewhichinthecourseofhis/herofficialdutiesorinconnectionwith any operation being regulated by, or any transactionwhichmaybeaffectedbythefunctionsofhis/heroffice.Theproprietyorimproprietyoftheforegoingshallbedeterminedbyitsvalue,kinship,orrelationshipbetweengiverandreceiverandthemotivation.Athingofmonetaryvalueisonewhichisevidentlyormanifestlyexcessivebyitsverynature;

11. Nepotism;and12. DisloyaltytotheRepublicofthePhilippinesandtotheFilipino

people.

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B. Thefollowinggraveoffensesshallbepunishablebysuspensionofsix(6)monthsandone(1)daytoone(1)yearforthefirstoffenseanddismissalfromtheserviceforthesecondoffense:

1. Lessseriousdishonesty;2. Oppression;3. Disgracefulandimmoralconduct;4. Inefficiencyandincompetenceintheperformanceofofficial

duties;5. Frequentunauthorizedabsences,ortardinessinreportingfor

duty,loafingfromdutyduringregularofficehours;6. Refusaltoperformofficialduty;7. GrossInsubordination;8. Conductprejudicialtothebestinterestoftheservice;9. Directly or indirectly having financial and material interest

in any transaction requiring the approval of his/her office.Financial and material interest is defined as pecuniary orproprietary interest by which a person will gain or lose something;

10. Owning, controlling,managing or accepting employment asofficer,employee,consultant,counsel,broker,agent,trustee,ornomineeinanyprivateenterpriseregulated,supervisedorlicensedbyhis/heroffice,unlessexpresslyallowedbylaw;

11. Disclosing ormisusing confidential or classified informationofficially known to him/her by reason of his/her office andnotmade available to the public, to further his/her privateinterestsorgiveundueadvantagetoanyone,ortoprejudicethepublicinterest;

12. Obtaining or using any statement filed under the Codeof Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials andEmployees for any purpose contrary to morals or publicpolicy or any commercial purpose other than by news and communications media for dissemination to the generalpublic;and

13. Recommending any person to any position in a privateenterprisewhichhasaregularorpendingofficialtransactionwithhis/heroffice,unless such recommendationor referralis mandated by (1) law, or (2) international agreements,commitmentandobligation,oraspartofthefunctionofhis/heroffice.

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C. The grave offense of Inefficiency and Incompetence in theperformance ofofficialduties ispunishable byDemotion. In thiscase,theguiltypersonshallbeappointedtothenextlowerpositiontowhichhe/she isqualified in theplantillaof theagency. In casethereisnosuchnextlowerpositionavailable,he/sheshall sufferdiminutioninsalarycorrespondingtothenextlowersalarygrade.

D. The following less grave offenses are punishable by suspension ofone(1)monthandone(1)daysuspensiontosix(6)monthsforthefirstoffense;anddismissalfromtheserviceforthesecondoffense:

1. SimpleNeglectofDuty;2. SimpleMisconduct;3. Discourtesyinthecourseofofficialduties;4. Violation of existing Civil Service Law and rules of serious

nature;5. Insubordination;6. HabitualDrunkenness;7. Unfairdiscriminationinrenderingpublicserviceduetoparty

affiliationorpreference;8. Failure tofile sworn statementsofassets, liabilitiesandnet

worth, and disclosure of business interest and financialconnections includingthoseoftheirspousesandunmarriedchildren under eighteen (18) years of age living in theirhouseholds;

9. Failuretoresignfromhis/herpositionintheprivatebusinessenterprisewithinthirty (30)days fromassumptionofpublicofficewhenconflictofinterestarises,and/orfailuretodivesthimself/herselfofhis/hershareholdingsorinterestinprivatebusiness enterprise within sixty (60) days from assumptionof public office when conflict of interest arises; Provided,however, that for thosewho are already in the service andconflictofinterestarises,theofficialoremployeemusteitherresign or divest himself/herself of said interest within theperiodshereinaboveprovided,reckonedfromthedatewhentheconflictofinteresthadarisen;and

10. Engagingdirectlyorindirectlyinpartisanpoliticalactivitiesbyoneholdingnon-politicaloffice.

E. The less grave offense of Simple Dishonesty is punishable bysuspensionofone(1)monthandone(1)daytosix(6)monthsforthefirstoffense;six(6)monthsandone(1)daytoone(1)yearforthesecondoffense;anddismissalforthethirdoffense.

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F. The following light offenses are punishable by reprimand for thefirstoffense;suspensionofone(1)tothirty(30)daysforthesecondoffense;anddismissalfromtheserviceforthethirdoffense:

1. Simplediscourtesyinthecourseofofficialduties;

2. Improper or unauthorized solicitation of contributions fromsubordinate employees and by teachers or school officialsfromschoolchildren;

3. Violationofreasonableofficerulesandregulations;

4. Frequentunauthorizedtardiness(HabitualTardiness);

5. Gamblingprohibitedbylaw; 6. Refusaltorenderovertimeservice;

7. Disgraceful, immoral or dishonest conduct prior to enteringtheservice;

8. Borrowingmoneybysuperiorofficersfromsubordinates;

9. Willfulfailuretopayjustdebtsorwillfulfailuretopaytaxesduetothegovernment;

Thetermjustdebtsshallapplyonlyto:a. Claimsadjudicatedbyacourtoflaw,orb. Claimstheexistenceandjustnessofwhichareadmitted

by the debtor.

10. Lobbyingforpersonal interestorgainin legislativehallsandofficeswithoutauthority;

11. Promotingthesaleofticketsinbehalfofprivateenterprisesthatarenotintendedforcharitableorpublicwelfarepurposesandeveninthelattercases,ifthereisnopriorauthority;

12. Failure toactpromptlyon lettersandrequestwithinfifteen(15)workingdaysfromreceipt,exceptasotherwiseprovidedin the rules implementing the Code of Conduct and EthicalStandardsforPublicOfficialsandEmployees;

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13. Failure to process documents and complete action ondocuments and papers within a reasonable time frompreparationthereof,exceptasotherwiseprovidedintherulesimplementingtheCodeofConductandEthicalStandardsforPublicOfficialsandEmployees;

14. Failuretoattendtoanyonewhowantstoavailhimself/herselfoftheservicesoftheoffice,oractpromptlyandexpeditiouslyonpublictransactions;

15. Engaging in private practice of his/her profession unlessauthorized by the Constitution, law or regulation, providedthat such practice will not conflict with his/her officialfunctions;and

16. Pursuitofprivatebusiness,vocationorprofessionwithoutthepermissionrequiredbyCivilServicerulesandregulations.

Section 47. Penalty of Fine. The following are the guidelines for thepenaltyoffine:

1. Upontherequestoftheheadofofficeortheconcernedpartyandwhensupportedbyjustifiablereason/s,thediscipliningauthoritymayallowpaymentoffineinplaceofsuspensionifanyofthefollowingcircumstances are present:

a. When the functions/nature of the office is impressedwithnational interest such as those involved in maintenance ofpeaceandorder,healthandsafety,education;or

b. When the respondent is actually discharging frontlinefunctions or those directly dealing with the public and thepersonnelcomplementoftheofficeisinsufficienttoperformsuchfunction;and

c. Whentherespondentcommittedtheoffensewithoututilizingorabusingthepowersofhis/herpositionoroffice.

2. ThepaymentofpenaltyoffineinlieuofsuspensionshallbeavailableinGrave,LessGraveandLightOffenseswherethepenaltyimposedisforsix(6)monthsorlessattheratioofone(1)dayofsuspensionfromtheservicetoone(1)dayfine;Provided,thatinGraveOffenseswherethepenalty imposed is six (6)months andone (1) day suspensioninviewof thepresenceofmitigatingcircumstance, theconversion

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shallonlyapplytothesuspensionofsix(6)months.Nonetheless,theremainingone(1)daysuspensionisdeemedincludedtherein.

3. Themaximumperiodtopaythefineshallnotexceedone(1)yearfromthetimethedecision/resolutionbecomesfinalandexecutory.The conversion of suspension into fine is final and executory and,therefore,notsubjectofappealoranyothersimilarrelief.

4. The failureof the respondent topay thefineorpart thereof shallcausethereversiontotheoriginalpenaltyofsuspension. Assuch,respondentshallservetheoriginalpenaltyofsuspension imposed,irrespectiveoftheamounthe/shehasalreadypaid.

5. Fine may be paid in equal monthly installments subject to thefollowingscheduleofpaymentprescribedbelow:

a. Fineequivalenttoone(1)monthsalaryshallbepaidwithintwo(2)months;

b. Fineequivalenttotwo(2)monthssalaryshallbepaidwithinfour(4)months;

c. Fineequivalenttothree(3)monthssalaryshallbepaidwithinsix(6)months;

d. Fineequivalenttofour(4)monthssalaryshallbepaidwithineight(8)months;

e. Fineequivalenttofive(5)monthssalaryshallbepaidwithinten(10)months;and

f. Fineequivalent tosix (6)monthssalaryshallbepaidwithintwelve(12)months.

6. Thefineshallbepaidtotheagencyimposingthesame,computedonthebasisofrespondentssalaryatthetimethedecisionbecomesfinalandexecutory.

Section 48. Mitigating and Aggravating Circumstances. In the determination of the penalties to be imposed, mitigating and/ or aggravatingcircumstancesattendanttothecommissionoftheoffenseshallbeconsidered.

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Thefollowingcircumstancesshallbeappreciated:

a. Physicalillness;b. Goodfaith;c. Malice;d. Timeandplaceofoffense;e. Takingundueadvantageofofficialposition;f. Takingundueadvantageofsubordinate;g. Unduedisclosureofconfidentialinformation;h. Useofgovernmentpropertyinthecommissionoftheoffense;i. Habituality;j. Offenseiscommittedduringofficehoursandwithinthepremisesof

theofficeorbuilding;k. Employmentoffraudulentmeanstocommitorconcealtheoffense;l. Firstoffense;m. Education;n. Lengthofservice;oro. Other analogous circumstances.

In the appreciation thereof, the same must be invoked or pleaded bythe proper party, otherwise, said circumstances will not be considered in theimpositionoftheproperpenalty.Thediscipliningauthority,however,intheinterestofsubstantialjusticemaytakeandconsiderthesecircumstancesmotu proprio.

Section 49. Manner of Imposition.Whenapplicable, the impositionofthe penalty may be made in accordance with the manner provided herein below:

a. The minimumofthepenaltyshallbeimposedwhereonlymitigatingandnoaggravatingcircumstancesarepresent.

b. The mediumofthepenaltyshallbeimposedwherenomitigatingandaggravatingcircumstancesarepresent.

c. The maximumofthepenaltyshallbeimposedwhereonlyaggravatingandnomitigatingcircumstancesarepresent.

d. Where aggravating and mitigating circumstances are present,paragraph [a] shall be applied where there are more mitigatingcircumstances present; paragraph [b] shall be applied when thecircumstancesequallyoffseteachother;andparagraph[c]shallbeappliedwhentherearemoreaggravatingcircumstances.

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Section 50. Penalty for the Most Serious Offense. If the respondent isfoundguiltyoftwo(2)ormorechargesorcounts,thepenaltytobeimposedshouldbe that corresponding to the most serious charge and the rest shall be considered asaggravatingcircumstances.

Section 51. Duration and effect of administrative penalties.Thefollowing

rulesshallgoverntheimpositionofadministrativepenalties:

a. Thepenaltyofdismissalshallresultinthepermanentseparationofthe respondent from the service,without prejudice to criminal orcivil liability.

b. Thepenaltyofdemotionshallentailappointmenttothenextlowerpositiontowhichrespondentisqualifiedordiminutionofsalarytonextlowergradeifthereisnosuchpositionavailable.

c. Thepenaltyofsuspensionshallresultinthetemporarycessationofworkforaperiodnotexceedingone(1)year.

Suspension of one day or more shall be considered a gap in thecontinuityof service.During theperiodof suspension, respondentshallnotbeentitledtoallmonetarybenefitsincludingleavecredits.

d. Thepenaltyoffineshallbeinanamountnotexceedingsix(6)monthssalaryofrespondent.Thecomputationthereofshallbebasedonthesalaryrateoftherespondentwhenthedecisionbecomesfinalandexecutory.Finesshallbepaidwithinaperiodnotexceedingone(1)yearreckonedalsofromthedatewhendecisionbecomesfinalandexecutory.

e. Thepenaltyofreprimandshallnotcarrywithitanyaccessorypenaltynorresultinthetemporarycessationofwork.Intheeventthepenaltyofreprimandwasimposedonappealasaresultofmodificationofthepenaltyofsuspensionordismissalfromservice,therespondentshallbeentitledtothepaymentofbacksalariesandotherbenefitswhichwouldhaveaccruedduringtheperiodofhis/hersuspensionordismissal.

Section 52. Administrative Disabilities Inherent in Certain Penalties.

a. Thepenaltyofdismissalshallcarrywithitcancellationofeligibility,forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification fromholdingpublicofficeandbarfromtakingcivilserviceexaminations.

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b. The penalty of demotion shall carry with it disqualification frompromotionforone(1)year.

c. The penalty of suspension shall carry with it disqualification frompromotioncorrespondingtotheperiodofsuspension.

d. Thepenaltyoffineshallcarrywithitdisqualificationfrompromotionforthesameperiodhe/shewasfined.

e. The accessory penalties inherent in the penalty of suspensionprovidedinSection51(c)oftheRulesshallcontinuetoapplywhenthepenaltyoffineisimposedinlieuofsuspension.

Shouldtherespondentfailtopayinfullthefinewithintheprescribedperiod,he/sheshallbedeemedtohavefailedtoservethepenaltyimposed, hence, thedisqualification for promotion shall remain ineffectuntilsuchtimethatthefineisfullypaid.

f. The penalty of reprimand shall not carry with it any accessorypenalties.

g. Awarningoradmonitionshallnotbeconsideredapenalty.

Section 53. Effects of Exoneration on Certain Penalties.

a. Incasethepenaltyimposedisafine,thesameshallberefunded.

b. Incasethereisdemotion,he/sheshallberestoredtohis/herformerposition,without loss of seniority rights. Respondent shall also beentitledtothepaymentofsalarydifferentialsduringtheperiodthedemotionwasimposed.

c. Incasethepenaltyimposedissuspension,he/sheshallimmediatelybereinstatedtohis/herformerpostwithoutlossofseniorityrightsandwithpaymentofbacksalariesandallbenefitswhichwouldhaveaccruedasifhe/shehasnotbeenillegallysuspended.

d. In case thepenalty imposed isdismissal,he/she shall immediatelybereinstatedwithout lossofseniorityrightswithpaymentofbacksalariesandallbenefitswhichwouldhaveaccruedasifhe/shehasnot been illegally dismissed.

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e. Therespondentwhoisexoneratedbyfinaljudgmentshallbeentitledtotheleavecreditsfortheperiodhe/shehadbeenoutoftheservice.

REMEDIES

Rule 11

SETTLEMENT IN ADMINISTRATIVE CASES

Section 54. Who may avail. Incasesof lightoffenseswheretheact ispurelypersonalonthepartoftheprivatecomplainantandthepersoncomplainedof and there isnoapparent injury committed to thegovernment, settlementofoffensesmaybeconsidered.Providedthatsettlementcannolongerbeappliedforthesecondoffenseofthesameactcommittedbythepersoncomplainedof.

Section 55. Guidelines.Thefollowingaretheguidelinesinthesettlementofpurelypersonalmattersinadministrativecases:

a. Compromise settlement shall be allowed only for administrativelightoffenseswheretheactispurelypersonalbetweentheprivatecomplainantandthepersoncomplainedofandthereisnoapparentinjurytothegovernment;

b. Uponfilingofthecomplaint,thediscipliningauthorityshalldeterminewhether the offense is purely personal or can be the subject ofsettlement;

The following cases may be the subject of settlement and/or

compromise:

1. Borrowingmoneybysuperiorofficersfromsubordinates;2. Willfulfailuretopayjustdebts;3. Simple Misconduct resulting from misunderstanding/fight

between respondent and complainant provided that the act isnotcommittedwithinofficepremises;

4. Discourtesyinthecourseofofficialduties;and5. Other analogous circumstances/cases.

Intheseenumeratedcases,compromiseorsettlementcannolongerbeappliedforthesecondtimethesameactiscommitted;

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Thegrantofbacksalariesandotherbenefitsmaylikewisebesubjectofsettlementand/orcompromise;

c. If the offense can be the subject of settlement, theActionOfficerassigned shall order the respondent to comment and to indicate thereinwhetherhe/sheiswillingtosubmitthecaseforsettlement;

d. If person complained of opted for settlement, the Action Officerassignedshallissueanorderrequiringtheappearanceofparties;

e. Ifsettlementsucceeds,acompromiseagreementshallbeexecuted

betweenthepartiesandattestedbytheActionOfficer; f. Thecompromiseagreementshallbebindingonthepartiesandshall

be considered a decision on the merits which cannot be impugned unlessitisshownthattherewasduressonitsexecutiononanyoftheparties;

g. A Decision shall be issued by the Disciplining Authority based on the CompromiseAgreement;

h. If during the settlement process, the parties failed to settle theirdifferences, theActionOfficer shall issueanorder terminating theprocessandcontinuewiththeinvestigationofthecase;and

j. In case of non-compliance with the compromise agreement, thecase may likewise be reopened for investigation until the finaldeterminationofthecase.

MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION IN DISCIPLINARY CASES

Section 56. Filing.Thepartyadverselyaffectedbythedecisionmayfileamotionforreconsiderationwiththediscipliningauthoritywhorenderedthesamewithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereof.Amotionforextensionoftimetofileamotionforreconsiderationisnotallowed.

Section 57. When deemed filed. Amotion for reconsideration sent byregisteredmailshallbedeemedfiledonthedateshownbythepostmarkontheenvelopewhichshallbeattachedtotherecordsofthecase.Incaseofpersonaldelivery,itisdeemedfiledonthedatestampedthereonbytheproperoffice.

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Anna Kathrina Fernandez

Section 58. Grounds.Themotionforreconsiderationshallbebasedonanyofthefollowing:

a. New evidence has been discovered which materially affects thedecisionrendered;or

b. Thedecisionisnotsupportedbytheevidenceonrecord;orc. Errorsoflaworirregularitieshavebeencommittedprejudicialtothe

interestofthemovant.

Section 59. Limitation. Only one motion for reconsideration shall beentertained. If a secondmotion for reconsideration is filed notwithstanding itsproscription under this Rules, the finality of action shall be reckoned from thedenialofthefirstmotionforreconsideration.

Section 60. Effect of Filing.Thefilingofamotionforreconsiderationwithinthereglementaryperiodoffifteen(15)daysshallstaytheexecutionofthedecisionsought to be reconsidered.

Rule 12

APPEAL IN DISCIPLINARY CASES

Section 61. Filing.SubjecttoSection45ofthisRules,decisionsofheadsofdepartments,agencies,provinces,cities,municipalitiesandotherinstrumentalitiesimposing a penalty exceeding thirty (30) days suspension or fine in an amountexceeding thirty (30)days salary,maybeappealed to theCommission withinaperiodoffifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereof.IncasesthedecisionrenderedbyabureauorofficeheadisappealabletotheCommission,thesamemaybeinitiallyappealedtothedepartmentheadandthenfinallytotheCommission.

AlldecisionsofheadsofagenciesareimmediatelyexecutorypendingappealbeforetheCommission.ThedecisionimposingthepenaltyofdismissalbydiscipliningauthoritiesindepartmentsisnotimmediatelyexecutoryunlessconfirmedbytheSecretaryconcerned.However,theCommissionmaytakecognizanceoftheappealpendingconfirmationofitsexecutionbytheSecretary.

Section 62. When deemed filed. An appeal sent by registered mail shall be deemedfiledonthedateshownbythepostmarkontheenvelopewhichshallbeattachedtotherecordsofthecase.Incaseofpersonaldelivery,itisdeemedfiledonthedatestampedthereonbytheproperoffice.

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Section 63. Appeal Fee.Theappellantshallpayanappealfeeandacopyoftheofficialreceiptthereofshallbeattachedtotheappeal.

Section 64. Perfection of an Appeal.Toperfectanappeal,theappellantshallsubmitthree(3)copiesofthefollowingdocuments:

a. Appeal memorandum containing the grounds relied upon for theappeal,togetherwiththecertifiedtruecopyofthedecision,resolutionor order appealed from, and certified copies of the documents orevidence.Theappealmemorandumshallbefiledwiththeappellateauthority,copyfurnishedthediscipliningauthority.Thelattershallsubmit the records of the case, which shall be systematically andchronologically arranged, paged and securely bound to preventloss,withitscomment,withinfifteen(15)daysfromreceipt,totheappellate authority.

b. Proof of service of a copy of the appeal memorandum to thediscipliningoffice;

c. Proofofpaymentoftheappealfee;and

d. Astatementorcertificateofnon-forumshopping.

When an appellant fails to comply with any of the above requirementswithinthereglementaryperiod,theCommissionshalldirectcompliancewithinaperiodofnotmorethanten(10)daysfromreceiptthereof,withawarningthatfailuretocomplyshallbeconstruedasfailuretoperfectanappealandshallcausethedismissaloftheappealwithprejudicetoitsrefiling.

Section 65. Effect of Filing.ExceptforcasesrequiringconfirmationoftheDepartmentSecretaryconcernedandcasesdecidedbytheCSCROs,anappealshallnotstopthedecisionfrombeingexecutory.

Section 66. When to Remand an Appealed Case to Agency of Origin.Ifonappeal,theCommissionfindsthatthediscipliningauthorityviolatedrespondent-appellants right todueprocesssuchas the failure to issuea formalcharge, theCommission shall dismiss the appealed case and order the immediate reinstatement of the respondent with payment of back salaries and other benefits. However,thedismissalofthecaseshallbewithoutprejudiceonthepartofthediscipliningauthoritytore-fileitinaccordancewithlaw.

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Anna Kathrina Fernandez

If a formal charge has been issued but the disciplining authority hasviolatedrespondent-appellantsrighttoproceduraldueprocess,theCommissionshall remand the appealed case to the agency of origin for further proceedingstobeconductedwithinthree(3)calendarmonthsfromthedateofreceiptofthecaserecords,unlessthere isdelayduetothefault,negligenceorpetitionoftherespondent,oranextensionisgrantedbytheCommissiononmeritoriousgrounds.Theperiodofdelayshallbeexcludedinthecomputationoftheprescribedperiod.Withinfifteen(15)daysfromtheterminationoftheproceedings,thediscipliningauthority shall render his/her decision.

Ifattheendofthethree(3)monthperiod,thediscipliningauthorityfailedtoconductfurtherproceedings,theCommissionuponmotionoftherespondent-appellant shall vacate and set aside the appealed decision and declare the respondent-appellant exonerated of the charge/s. If the respondent-appellant isunderpreventivesuspension,he/sheshallbeimmediatelyreinstatedandshallbeentitledtobacksalariesandotherbenefits.

TheCommissionshallevaluaterequestsforextensionofthethree(3)-monthperiodandmaygrantthesameonmeritoriousgroundsguidedbytheprinciplesofjusticeandfairplay.Allrequestsforextensionshallnotbeformorethantwenty(20)days.

For this purpose, the CSCRO Directors concerned shall monitor theimplementationoftheCSCResolutionremandingthecasetotheagencyoforiginand to submit a report to the Commission Proper.

Rule 13

PETITION FOR REVIEW

Section 67. Petition for Review of CSCRO Decisions. A party may elevate the decision of the Civil Service Commission Regional Office dismissing thecomplaintforlackofaprima faciecaseorwheretheformalchargeissuedwasforaloweroffense,throughapetitionforreviewbeforetheCommissionwithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptofsaiddecision.

Section 68. ForthepurposeofthisRule,allappealsfromthedecisionsoftheCivilServiceCommissionRegionalOfficestotheCommissionshallbedenominatedasaPetitionforReview.

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Section 69. Petition for Review of Decisions of Agencies.Adecisionofanagencyheaddismissingacomplaintforlackofprima faciecaseorissuanceofaformalchargeforaloweroffenseisnotsubjecttoappealorpetitionforreviewbeforetheCommission.

Section 70. Petition for Review with the Court of Appeals. A party may elevate a decision of the Commission before the Court of Appeals byway of apetitionforreviewunderRule43ofthe1997RevisedRulesofCourt.

Rule 14

REMOVAL OF ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTIES OR DISABILITIES

Section 71. Recommendation for Removal of Administrative Penalties or Disabilities; Requirements. InmeritoriouscasesanduponrecommendationoftheCommission,thePresidentmaycommuteorremoveadministrativepenaltiesordisabilitiesimposeduponofficersoremployeesindisciplinarycases,subjecttosuchtermsandconditionsashe/shemayimposeintheinterestoftheservice.

Subject to existing guidelines, a petition for a favorable recommendationforthegrantofremovalofadministrativepenaltiesordisabilitiesmaybefiledbyadismissedordisciplinedemployeewiththeCommissionuponsubmissionofthefollowing:

a. certifiedtruecopyofthedecisioninthedisciplinarycase;

b. favorablerecommendationbythediscipliningauthorityorheadofofficefromwhichhe/shewasdismissed;

c. certificationfromreputablemembersofthecommunitywherehe/she resides that he/she is a good parent/family member and/orneighbor, law abiding and activemember of community and civicorganizations;

d. proofofnon-pendencyofanappeal/petition for reviewrelative tohis/herdisciplinarycasebeforeanycourt/tribunal;and

e. proofofpaymentoffilingfee.

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Section 72. The following are the guidelines for the grant of favorablerecommendationfortheremovalofadministrativepenaltiesordisabilities:

a. Apart from compliance with the procedural requirements, thepetitionermustdemonstratethroughspecificandpositiveactionandbehaviorthathe/shehasbecomeausefulmemberofthecommunity.Affidavitsfromrespectablepersonsinthecommunityattestingthatthe petitioner is a law-abiding citizen, an active member of thecommunityandcivicorganizations,agoodpersonandneighbor,andonewhohastherespectofthemembersofthecommunity,shallbepresented;

b. Aminimumofthree(3)yearsshouldhavelapsed,fromthetimeofthefinalityofthedecisiondismissingthepetitionerfromtheservice,in order that the petitioner may be considered as to have trulyundergonemoralreformation;

c. The petitioner seeking the removal of administrative penalties ordisabilities must have recognized/accepted his/her guilt in his/her petition to show that he/she is repentant/remorseful of theconsequences of his/her act, in addition to the above-mentionedrequirements;

d. Non-admissionoracceptanceof guiltby thepetitionerwill notberequiredwhenhe/shehasbeenacquittedinthecriminalcasewhichhasbeendecidedonthemeritsandineffectdeclaredtheinnocenceofthepetitioner;

e. In cases where a petitioner is above sixty-five (65) years of age,the Commission shall favorably recommend the removal of his/her administrative penalties or disabilities, provided that he/ shecomplies with the procedural requirements and submits proof ofmoralreformation;and

f. Incaseswherethepersonisfoundguiltyofdeprivingthegovernmentof money or property, restitution shall be required before theCommissioncanfavorablyrecommendtheremovalofadministrativepenaltiesordisabilities.

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CONTEMPT OF THE COMMISSION

Rule 15

PROCEDURE FOR CONTEMPT

Section 73. Contumacious/Contemptuous Acts Punishable.Anofficialoremployeeoranypersonfoundguiltyof,disobedienceoforresistancetoalawfulwrit,process,order,decision,resolution,ruling,summons,subpoena,commandorinjunctionoftheCommissionmaybepunishedforindirectcontempt.

Section 74. How proceedings are commenced. Proceedings for indirectcontemptmaybeinitiatedmotupropriobytheCommissionbyanorderrequiringthe respondent to show causewhy he/she should not be punished for indirectcontempt. A motion to cite for indirect contempt may also be filed with theCommission.InbothcasesproceedingsshallbeconductedattheOfficeforLegalAffairs,CivilServiceCommission.

Theconductofproceedings in indirect contempt cases shall followas farasapplicable, theprocedurerequired intheconductofdisciplinary investigationprovidedunderthisRules,inclusiveof,amongotherstheconductofPreliminaryInvestigation, Issuanceof Formal Charge, Formal Investigationand RenditionofDecision.

Section 75. Hearing.Uponthedaysetforthehearing,theCommissionshallproceedtoinvestigatethechargeandconsidersuchcomment,answer,defenseortestimonyastherespondentmaymakeoroffer.Failuretoattendthescheduledhearing and to give a satisfactory explanation inwriting to the Commissionwillresultinthewaiveroftherespondenttobepresentduringthehearing.

Section 76. Punishment, if found guilty. If the respondent isadjudgedguilty of indirect contempt committed against the Commission, he/shemay bepunishedby a fineofOneThousand (P1,000.00) Pesosper day for every act ofindirectcontempt.Eachdayofdefianceof,ordisobedienceto,ornon-enforcementofafinalorder,resolution,decision,ruling,injunctionorprocesses,shallconstituteanindirectcontemptoftheCommission.Ifthecontemptconsistsintheviolationof an injunctionor omission to do an actwhich is stillwithin the power of therespondent toperform, the respondent shall, in addition, bemade liable for alldamagesasaconsequencethereof.Thedamagesshallbemeasuredbytheextentofthelossorinjurysustainedbytheaggrievedpartybyreasonofthemisconduct,disobedienceto,defianceofalawfulorder,and/orsuchothercontumaciousactsor omissions of which the contempt is being prosecuted, and the costs of theproceedings,includingpaymentofinterestondamages.

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NON-DISCIPLINARY CASES

Rule 16

INVALIDATION OR DISAPPROVAL OF APPOINTMENT Section 77. Invalidation or Disapproval; Who May Appeal. Either the

appointingauthorityortheappointeemayassailtheinvalidationordisapprovalofan appointment.

Section 78. Where and When to File. Appointments invalidated or disapprovedbytheCSCFOmaybeappealedtotheCSCROwhilethoseinvalidatedordisapprovedbytheCSCROmaybeappealedtotheCommissionwithinthefifteen(15)dayreglementaryperiod.

To facilitate prompt actions on invalidated or disapproved appointments,motions for reconsideration filedwith the CSCFO shall be treated as an appealto theCSCROandaMotion forReconsiderationat theCSCROwillbe treatedasanappealtotheCommissionandalltherecordsthereofincludingthecommentsof theCSCFOorCSCRO shall,within ten (10)days from receiptof the latter, beforwardedtotheCSCROortheCommissionasthecasemaybe.

Theactionof theCSCROconcernedmaybeappealed to theCommissionwithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereof.

TheappealfiledbeforetheCSCROsandtheCommissionshallcomplywiththerequirementsfortheperfectionofanappealenumeratedinSections113and114.

RULE 17

PROTEST

Section 79. Protest; Who may File.Onlyaqualifiednext-in-rankemployeemayfileaprotestagainstanappointmentmadeinfavorofanotherwhodoesnotpossesstheminimumqualificationrequirements.

Section 80. Where to File.Aqualifiednext-in-rankemployeeshallhavetherighttoappealinitiallytotheheadofagency,thentotheCivilServiceCommissionRegionalOffice,andthentotheCivilServiceCommissionProper.

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Section 81. When to File.Protestmaybefiledwithinfifteen(15)daysfromtheannouncementand/orpostingofappointmentssubjectofprotest.

Forthispurpose,allappointmentsorpromotionsshallbedulyannouncedand/orposted inbulletinboardsorat conspicuousplaces in theDepartmentorAgencywithinthirty(30)daysfromissuanceoftheappointments.

Section 82. Effect on the Protested Appointment. A protest shall not

renderanappointmentineffectivenorbartheapprovalthereof,bytheCivilServiceCommissionField,RegionalOfficeortheCommission,asthecasemaybe,buttheapprovalshallbesubjecttothefinaloutcomeoftheprotest.

Section 83. Effect of Withdrawal of Protest. A protest or an appeal in thiscasemaybewithdrawnatanytimeasamatterofright.Thewithdrawaloftheprotest or appeal shall terminate the protest case.

Section 84. When Deemed Filed.Aprotest isdeemedfiled, incase thesameissentbyregisteredmail,onthepostmarkdateontheenvelopewhichshallbeattachedtotherecordsofthecase,andincaseofpersonaldelivery,onthedatestamped by the agency or the Commission.

Section 85. Transmittal of Records.IncaseswheretheprotestisfiledwiththeCommission,theheadofdepartmentoragencyshallforwardhis/hercommentandtherecordsofthecasewithinten(10)daysfromreceiptofthecopyoftheprotest. The records shall be systematically and chronologically arranged, pagedandsecurelyboundtopreventlossandshallincludethefollowing:

a. Statementofdutiesorjobdescriptionofthecontestedposition;

b. Dulyaccomplishedandupdatedpersonaldatasheetsofthepartieswithcertifiedstatementofservicerecordsattached;

c. Certifiedcopyoftheprotestedappointment;and

d. Comparativeassessmentofthequalificationsoftheprotestantandprotestee.

Section 86. Dismissal of Protest.Aprotestshallbedismissedonanyofthefollowinggrounds:

a. Theprotestantisnotqualifiednext-in-rank;

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b. Theprotestisnotdirectedagainstaparticularprotesteebuttoanyonewhoisappointedtothepositionordirectedtotwoormoreprotestees;

c. TheprotestisnotinaccordancewiththerequiredformasprescribedinthisRules;

d. Noappointmenthasbeenissued;

e. The protest is filed outside of the 15-day reglementary period asprovidedinSection81hereof;

f. Non-paymentofthefilingfee;or

g. Non-submissionofacertificateofnon-forumshopping.

Section 87. Finality of Decision. Decision on a protest case shall become finalafterfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereofandnomotionforreconsiderationorappealhasbeenfiled.

Section 88. Available Remedies.

a. Thedecision of the heads of agencies other than theDepartmentSecretariesmaybeappealedtotheCSCROwithinfifteen(15)days,andfinallytotheCommission.

ThedecisionoftheDepartmentSecretariesmaybeappealedwithinthe same period to the Commission.

Incaseswheretheprotestisfiledwithinthedepartmentoragency,theprotestantmayfileamotionforreconsiderationoftheadversedecision,rulingoractionwithinfifteen(15)days fromreceiptwiththe same agency.

b. In cases where the appeal is filed with the CSCRO, a motion forreconsideration may be filed with the same office within fifteen(15)daysfromthereceiptoftheadversedecision,andthentotheCommission within the same period.

Theprotestantshallfurnishacopyofhis/herappealtotheheadofagencyconcernedwhoshallsubmithis/hercommenttotheCSCROwithinten(10)days.

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c. TheappealfiledbeforetheCSCROsandtheCommissionshallcomplywiththerequirementsfortheperfectionofanappealenumeratedinSection114.

Section 89. Effect of Decision.Incasetheprotestisfinallydecidedagainstthe protestee, the approval of his/her appointment shall be recalled and theappointment shall be considered disapproved. The protestee shall be reverted to his/herformerposition,ifapplicable.

Rule 18

CORRECTION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION INTHE RECORDS OF THE COMMISSION

Section 90. When and Where to File*.Requestsforcorrectionofpersonalinformationshallbefiledbeforeretirementoronmeritoriousgrounds,one(1)yearthereafter,withtheCSCROexercisingjurisdiction,andwhichrequestshallbeacteduponwithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceipt.CopiesoftheOrderorResolutionissuedbytheconcernedCSCROshallbesubmittedtotheIntegratedRecordsManagementOfficeastherepositoryofallpersonnelrecords.

Section 91. Required Documents. The following documents shall besubmittedtogetherwiththerequest:

a. OriginalCertificateofLiveBirthdulyauthenticatedbytheLocalCivilRegistrarofthemunicipalityorcitywherethebirthwasregisteredorrecordedortheNationalStatisticsOffice,orinitsabsence,acourtorder;

b. PersonalAffidavitofDiscrepancy;

c. AffidavitofTwoDisinterestedWitnesses;and

d. Photocopyofdocumentssoughttobecorrected.

Afilingfeeshallbepaidandareceiptthereofshallbeattachedtotherequesttogetherwithaphotocopyofthedocumentssoughttobecorrected.

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*Refer to CSC Resolution No. 1400514 published in The Manila Times on May 27, 2014.

Section 92. Supporting Documents. - When the submitted Certificate ofLiveBirthisissuedonthebasisoflateregistration,originalordulyauthenticatedsupporting documents must be submitted, in addition to the requirementsenumeratedintheimmediatelyprecedingsection,towarrantthecorrectionorchangeofinformationintherecordsoftheCommission,towit:

a. Baptismal certificate,unless ithasbeen lostordestroyedduringawar, fire, natural calamity or any other fortuitous event, in whichcase,acertification issuedbytheproperchurchauthoritymustbesubmitted. If the requesting party was not issued any baptismalcertificateorwasnotbaptized,anaffidavitattestingtosuchfactmustbesubmitted.Inbothcases,otherauthenticandreliabledocumentswhichshowtheinformationordatarequestedtobecorrectedmustbealsobesubmittedtogetherwiththerequest.

b. AffidavitsofTwo(2)DisinterestedWitnesses;and

c. Other employment, personal or school recordswhich support theentryreflectedinthebelatedlyregisteredbirthcertificateandwhichentryisrequestedtobereflectedintherecordsoftheCommissionasthe true and correct entry.

Rule 19

DROPPING FROM THE ROLLS

Section 93. Grounds and Procedure for Dropping from the Rolls.Officersand employees who are either habitually absent or haveunsatisfactory or poorperformanceorhave shown tobephysically andmentallyunfit toperform theirdutiesmaybedroppedfromtherollssubjecttothefollowingprocedures:

a. Absence Without Approved Leave

1. An officer or employeewho is continuously absent withoutofficialleave(AWOL)foratleastthirty(30)workingdaysshallbeseparatedfromtheserviceordroppedfromtherollswithoutpriornotice. He/She shall, however, be informedofhis/herseparationnotlaterthanfive(5)daysfromitseffectivitywhichshallbesenttotheaddressappearingonhis/her201filesortohis/herlastknownaddress;

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2. Ifthenumberofunauthorizedabsencesincurredislessthanthirty(30)workingdays,awrittenReturn-to-Workordershallbe servedon the official or employee at his/her last knownaddressonrecord. Failureonhis/herparttoreporttoworkwithin the period stated in the order shall be a valid ground to drophim/herfromtherolls.

3. If it is clear under the obtaining circumstances that theofficial or employee concerned, has established a schemeto circumvent the rule by incurring substantial absencesthough lessthanthirty(30)workingdays,three(3)times inasemester,suchthatapatternisalreadyapparent,droppingfromtherollswithoutnoticemaylikewisebejustified.

b. Unsatisfactory or Poor Performance

1. An official or employee who is given two (2) consecutiveunsatisfactory ratings may be dropped from the rolls afterduenotice. Noticeshallmeanthat theofficeroremployeeconcerned is informed in writing of his/her unsatisfactoryperformance for a semester and is sufficientlywarned thata succeedingunsatisfactoryperformance shallwarranthis/her separation fromtheservice. Suchnoticeshallbegivennotlaterthanthirty(30)daysfromtheendofthesemesterandshallcontainsufficientinformationwhichshallenabletheofficialoremployeetoprepareanexplanation.

2. Anofficialoremployee,whoforoneevaluationperiodisratedpoorinperformance,maybedroppedfromtherolesafterduenotice.Duenoticeshallmeanthattheofficeroremployeeisinformedinwritingofthestatusofhis/herperformancenotlater than the fourth (4th)monthof that ratingperiodwithsufficientwarningthatfailuretoimprovehis/herperformancewithin the remaining period of the semester shall warranthis/her separation from the service. Such notice shall alsocontain sufficient informationwhichshallenable theofficialoremployeetoprepareanexplanation.

c. Physically Unfit

1. Anofficeroremployeewhoiscontinuouslyabsentformorethan one (1) year by reason of illness may be declared

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physically unfit to perform his/her duties and the head ofofficeinexerciseofhis/hersoundjudgmentmayconsequentlydrophim/herfromtherolls.

2. Anofficeroremployeewhoisintermittentlyabsentbyreasonof illness for at least two hundred sixty (260)working daysduringatwentyfour(24)monthperiodmayalsobedeclaredphysicallyunfitbytheheadofoffice.

3. An officer or employee who is behaving abnormally andmanifestscontinuingmentaldisorderandincapacitytoworkas reported by his/her co-workers or immediate supervisorand confirmed by a competent physician, may likewise bedroppedfromtherolls.

4. Forthepurposeofthethree(3)precedingparagraphs,noticeshallbegiventotheofficeroremployeeconcernedcontainingabriefstatementofthenatureofhis/herincapacitytowork.

Section 94. Written Notice; Who Signs. Thewrittennoticementionedin the preceding paragraphs may be signed by the person exercising immediate supervisionovertheofficialoremployee.However,thenoticeofseparationshallbesignedbytheappropriateappointingauthorityorheadofoffice.

Section 95. Order of Separation; Immediately Executory. The order ofseparation is immediatelyexecutorypendingappeal,unless theCommission,onmeritoriousgrounds,directsotherwise.

Section 96. Dropping From the Rolls; Non-Disciplinary in Nature. This modeofseparationfromtheserviceforunauthorizedabsencesorunsatisfactoryorpoorperformanceorphysicalormentalincapacityisnon-disciplinaryinnatureandshallnot result in the forfeitureofanybenefiton thepartof theofficialoremployeeorindisqualificationfromreemploymentinthegovernment.

Rule 20

EXTENSION OF SERVICE

Section 97. Extension of Service. When Allowed. Inmeritoriouscases,theCommissionmayallowtheextensionofserviceofapersonwhohasreachedthecompulsoryretirementageofsixty-five(65),foraperiodofsix(6)monthsonly

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unless otherwise stated. Provided that, such extensionmaybe for amaximumperiodofone(1)yearforonewhowillcompletethefifteen(15)yearsofservicerequiredundertheGSISLaw.

Section 98. Request for Extension of Service.ArequestforextensionshallbemadebytheheadofofficeandshallbefiledwiththeCommissionnotlaterthanthree(3)monthspriortodateoftheofficial/employeescompulsoryretirement.

ThefollowingdocumentsshallbesubmittedtotheCommission: a. Request for extension of service signed by the Head of Office,

containingthejustificationsfortherequest;b. Certificationthattheemployeesubjectoftherequestisstillmentally

and physically fit to perform the duties and functions of his/herposition;

c. CertifiedtruecopyoftheemployeesCertificateofLiveBirth;d. ServiceRecordoftheemployeeifthepurposeoftheextensionisto

complete thefifteen (15)year service requirementunder theGSISlaw;and

e. Proofofpaymentoffilingfee.

The only basis for Heads of Offices to allow an employee to continuerendering service after his/her 65th birthday is a Resolution of the Commissiongrantingtherequestforextension.Absentsuchresolution,thesalariesofthesaidemployeeshallbeforthepersonalaccountoftheresponsibleofficial.

Section 99. Effect of Grant of Extension of Service. An employee on service

extensionshallbeentitledtosalaries,allowancesandotherremunerations,thatarenormallyconsideredpartandparcelofanemployeescompensationpackage,subjecttotheexistingregulationsonthegrantthereof.

Rule 21

ACCREDITATION OF SERVICE

Section 100. Request for Accreditation of Service.Officialsandemployeeswhorenderedactualservicespursuanttodefectiveappointmentsorwithoutanyappointmentexceptthosewhohavealreadyretired,mayrequesttheinclusionofsaidservicesintheirofficialservicerecordintheCommission.

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Section 101. Documents to be Submitted.Insupportofsaidrequest,thefollowingdocumentsshallbesubmittedtotheCSCRegionalOffice:

a. Updated service records prepared by the Personnel Officer/Administrative Officer of the agency where the subject servicessought to be recorded were rendered.

b. Thedisapprovedappointmentsubjectoftheaccreditationofserviceandanyofthefollowing:

1. Indexofsalarypayments;2. Payroll;3. Vouchers;4. Copyofleavecard;5. DailyTimeRecordsorBundyCards;6. CopiesofPayroll/Voucheronthepaymentof loyaltybonus/

overtimepay/salarydifferentials;7. Incometaxreturns;8. Withholdingtaxreceipts;9. GSISinsurancepolicy;or10. Remittance records of contributions made either by the

employees or by the employer to the PAG-IBIG fund, GSISor other institutions, or remittance records of salary/multipurposeloandeduction,subjecttoverificationwithsaidinstitution.

c. In the absenceof the appointment subject of the accreditationofservice,thefollowingdocumentsshouldbesubmittedinsupportofthe request:

1. Updatedservicerecord;2. Indexofsalarypayments;andanyofthefollowing:

2.1. Payrollorvoucher;2.2. Copyofleavecard;2.3. DailyTimeRecordsorBundyCards;2.4. Copies of Payroll/Voucher on the payment of loyalty

bonus/overtimepay/salarydifferentials;2.5. Incometaxreturns;2.6. Withholdingtaxreceipts;2.7. GSISinsurancepolicy;or2.8. Remittance records of contributions made either by

the employees or by the employer to the PAG-IBIG

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fund,GSISorotherinstitutions,orremittancerecordsof salary/multipurpose loan deduction, subject toverificationwithsaidinstitution.

d. AnAffidavit orCertificationalone issuedby thePersonnelOfficer/AdministrativeOfficerandtheHeadoftheAgencythattheemployeeconcernedwasemployed in saidagencyduring theperiod subjectof theaccreditationwillnotbesufficient toprove the renditionofservices,butthesamemaybeconsideredasasupportingdocumenttocorroborateanyoftherequirementssubmittedbytheemployeeinanyrequestforaccreditationofservice.

Rule 22

REQUEST TO DECLARE POSITION AS NON -CAREER/CAREER

Section 102. Request to Declare Position as Non-Career. All requests todeclarepositionasnon-career shallbemadeby theheadof theagency. Nodeclarationshallbeallowedexceptwhenthesubjectpositionisactuallyvacantanditissufficientlyshownthatthepositionisprimarilyconfidentialinnaturedespiteitsinitialclassificationasacareerposition.

Section 103. Documents to be Submitted.Inrequestsofthisnature,theheadoftheagencyshallsubmitthefollowingdocuments:

a. Letter-requestsignedbytheheadoftheagency;b. PositionDescriptionFormsoftheposition/ssubjectoftherequest;c. CopyofthePlantillaofPositionsoftheagency;d. Certificationoftheheadoftheagencythattheposition/ssubjectof

therequestareactuallyvacant;e. Copyoftheagencysorganizationalchart;andf. Proofofpaymentoffilingfee.

Section 104. Guidelines for Conversion of Positions from Non-Career to Career.Requestsforconversionofpositionsfromnon-careertocareershallbemadebytheheadoftheagency. Incumbentsofconvertednon-careertocareercanbeappointedtosaidpositionsonlyiftheyarequalifiedandsuchfactshouldbespecifiedintheCSCResolutionitself.

The vested right principle should not be applied when positions areconverted fromnon-career tocareersince it iscontrary to themeritandfitnessprinciple.

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In request for conversion of positions from non-career to career, alldocumentsenumerated in Section103hereof shall be submittedexcept for thecertificationthattheposition/ssubjectoftherequestisactuallyvacant.

Rule 23

REMEDIES IN NON-DISCIPLINARY CASES

Section 105. Filing of a Motion for Reconsideration. Motion forreconsiderationmaybefiledonappealsdismissedbytheCommission.

Section 106. When deemed filed.Amotion for reconsiderationsentbyregisteredmailshallbedeemedfiledonthedateshownbythepostmarkontheenvelopewhichshallbeattachedtotherecordsofthecase.Incaseofpersonaldelivery,itisdeemedfiledonthedatestampedthereonbytheproperoffice.

Section 107. Grounds.Themotionforreconsiderationshallbebasedonanyofthefollowing:

a. New evidence has been discovered which materially affects thedecisionrendered;or

b. Thedecisionisnotsupportedbytheevidenceonrecord;orc. Errorsoflaworirregularitieshavebeencommittedprejudicialtothe

interestofthemovant.

Section 108. Limitation. Only one motion for reconsideration shall beentertained. If a secondmotion for reconsideration is filed notwithstanding itsproscription under this Rules, the finality of action shall be reckoned from thedenialoffirstmotionforreconsideration.

Section 109. Appeal from Invalidation of Appointments and Protest. The appealfrominvalidationofappointmentsandprotestshallbesubjecttotherulesstated in Rule 16 and Rule 17.

Section 110. Appeal from Decisions on Other Personnel Actions. Other personnelactions,suchas,butnotlimitedto,separationfromtheserviceduetounsatisfactoryconductorwantofcapacityduringprobationaryperiod,droppingfromtherollsduetoAbsenceWithoutOfficialLeave(AWOL),physicalandmentalunfitness,andunsatisfactorypoorperformance,protest,actiononappointments,reassignment, transfer, reappointment, detail, secondment, demotion, orterminationofservices,maybebroughttotheCSCRO,bywayofanappeal.

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Section 111. When and Where to File.Adecisionorrulingofanagencyheadmaybeappealedwithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereofbythepartyadverselyaffectedtotheCSCROandfinally,totheCommissionwithinthesameperiod.

However, if thedecision ismadeby theDepartment Secretary, the sameshallbeappealabletotheCommissionwithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereof.

A motion for reconsideration may be filed with the same office whichrenderedthedecisionorrulingwithinfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereof.

Section 112. When deemed filed. An appeal sent by registered mail shall bedeemedfiledonthedateshownbythepostmarkontheenvelopewhichshallbeattachedtotherecordsofthecase.Incaseofpersonaldelivery,itisdeemedfiledonthedatestampedthereonbytheproperoffice.

Section 113. Appeal Fee.Theappellantshallpayanappealfeeandacopy

oftheofficialreceiptthereofshallbeattachedtotheappeal.

Section 114. Perfection of an Appeal.Toperfectanappeal,theappellantshallsubmitthree(3)copiesofthefollowingdocuments:

a. Appeal memorandum containing the grounds relied upon for theappeal,togetherwiththecertifiedtruecopyofthedecision,resolutionor order appealed from, and certified copies of the documents orevidence.Theappealmemorandumshallbefiledwiththeappellateauthority,copyfurnishedtheappointingauthority. The lattershallsubmit the records of the case, which shall be systematically andchronologically arranged, paged and securely bound to preventloss,withitscomment,withinfifteen(15)daysfromreceipt,totheappellate authority.

b. Proof of service of a copy of the appeal memorandum to theappointingauthority;

c. Proofofpaymentoftheappealfee;andd. Astatementorcertificateofnon-forumshopping.

When an appellant fails to comply with any of the above requirementswithinthereglementaryperiod,theCommissionshalldirectcompliancewithinaperiodoften(10)daysfromreceiptthereof,withawarningthatfailuretocomplyshallbeconstruedasfailuretoperfectanappealandshallcausethedismissaloftheappealwithprejudicetoitsrefiling.

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Section 115. Effect of Decision.WheretheCommission,onappeal,setsaside,modifiesorreversesthedecisionwherebyanemployeewasdroppedfromthe rolls, he/she shall be reinstated immediately to his/her former post withpaymentofbacksalariesandothermonetarybenefits.

Incaseofillegaltermination,theemployeeshallbereinstatedwithpaymentof back salaries. In case of disapproval, invalidation, recall and revocation ofappointments,theappointeeshallberestoredtohis/herformerpositionwithoutlossofseniorityrights.

In case of reassignment, transfer, detail, or secondment, he/she shall berestoredtohis/herformerposition.

Incaseofdemotioninrank,salaryorstatus,he/sheshallberestoredtohis/herformerrank,salary,andstatus.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Rule 24

FEES AND OTHER MATTERS

Section 116. Schedule of Fees.Thefollowingisthescheduleoffilingfeessubjecttorevisionwhentheneedarises:

a. Complaint P500.00

b. PetitionforContempt P500.00

c. Protest(Initial) P500.00/pleadingd. Appeal(Disciplinary/Non-Disciplinary) P500.00/pleading

e. AppealfromDisapprovedAppointments P500.00/foreach appointee

f. PetitionforReviewofAdministrativeCases P500.00

g. RequestforRecommendation P500.00/petitionerForRemovalofAdministrativePenaltiesorDisabilities

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h.CorrectionofPersonalInformation P500.00inCSCRecords i.RequestforExtensionofService P500.00

j. ConversionofPositions P300.00/position

k. AccreditationofService P500.00

l. ClearanceforNoPendingAdministrative P100.00 Case

m. CertifiedTrueCopiesofCSCResolutions/ P10.00/page AuthenticatedCopiesofDocuments/ Records

Section 117. Deputation by CSC of other lawyers. The Commission may deputizelawyersofotheragenciesandsimilarofficialstoconductpreliminaryandformalinvestigationandtomakethenecessaryreportandrecommendationwithintheperiodspecifiedinSections17and43.

Section 118. Execution of CSCRO Decisions.ThedecisionsoftheCSCROsshallbeimmediatelyexecutoryafterfifteen(15)daysfromreceiptthereof,unlessamotionforreconsiderationoranappealwiththeCommissionisseasonablyfiled,inwhichcasetheexecutionofthedecisionshallbeheldinabeyance.

Section 119. Execution of the Decisions of the Commission. The decisions of the Commission shall be immediately executory after fifteen (15) days fromreceipt thereof,unlessamotionfor reconsideration isseasonablyfiled, inwhichcasetheexecutionofthedecisionshallbeheldinabeyance.

Forthispurpose,theCSCROsshallmonitorandassistintheeffectiveandimmediateimplementationofthesedecisions.

Section 120. Effect of Pendency of Petition for Review/Certiorari with the Court.ThefilingandpendencyofapetitionforreviewwiththeCourtofAppealsorcertiorariwiththeSupremeCourtshallnotstoptheexecutionofthedecisionoftheCommissionunlesstheCourtissuesarestrainingorderoraninjunction.

Section 121. Non-execution of Decision. Any officer or employee whowilfullyrefusesorfailstoimplementthefinalresolution,decision,orderorrulingof theCommission to theprejudiceof thepublic serviceand theaffectedparty,

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maybecitedinindirectcontemptoftheCommissionandmaybeadministrativelychargedwithConductPrejudicialtotheBestInterestoftheServiceorNeglectofDutyorbeheldcriminallyliableunderSection67ofBookV,ofExecutiveOrderNo.292otherwiseknownastheAdministrativeCodeof1987.

Section 122. Computation of Period. In computing any period of timeprescribedbythisRules,thefirstdayshallbeexcludedandthelastdayincludedunlessitbeaSaturday,aSundayoralegalholidayoraspecialnon-workingday,inwhichcasetheperiodshallrununtiltheendofthenextworkingdaywhichisneitheraSaturday,aSundaynoralegalholiday.

Copiesofdecisionsandothercommunicationsshallbeservedonthecounselofrecordifoneisrepresentedbyacounsel,ifhe/shehasnone,thesameshallbeservedtothepartyconcerned.Theperiodtoperfectamotionforreconsiderationoranappealshallbereckonedfromthedateofreceiptofcounselorparty,asthecase may be.

*Section 123. Service of Order and service of processes through private couriers. (a) There shall be presumptive service to a party of a CommissionsNoticeorOrderonanyofthefollowinginstances:

1. Incasesunderformalinvestigation,ifsuchNoticeorOrderappearson the record tohavebeenmailedat least twenty (20)dayspriortothescheduleddateofhearingiftheaddresseeisfromwithintheNationalCapitalRegion,oratleastthirty(30)daysiftheaddresseeis from outside the National Capital Region, for cases before theCommission Proper.

In cases before the Civil Service Commission Regional Offices, ifsuch Notice or Order appears on the record to have beenmailedat le