Liquor consumption in government offices prohibited, CSC reminds

By Philippine Information Agency (PIA 8)
May 27, 2013

GOVERNMENT CENTER, Palo, Leyte – Officials and employees who are caught in the act of consuming intoxicating liquor and other alcoholic beverages during office hours, as well as those who will be reporting for work under the influence of alcohol, shall be held liable for Misconduct which is punishable by suspension for one to six months for the first offense, and dismissal from service on the second offense.

The pronouncement was made by the Civil Service Commission as it reiterated the prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in government offices.

CSC Region 8 Director Attorney Raymund Gonzales said that pursuant to CSC Resolution No. 1100039, the consumption of alcoholic beverages such as, but not limited to, malt, wine, and intoxicating liquor in workplace among government officials and employees during office hours is prohibited.

He said that the mere consumption of alcoholic beverages in the workplace during office hours, as well as reporting for work while under the influence of alcohol, is considered as an administrative offense, separate and distinct from the offense of habitual drunkenness.

Director Gonzales clarified that the consumption of alcoholic beverages may be allowed during programs and rituals such as ceremonial toasts and observance honoring of local customs and traditions.

During such instances, the alcoholic beverage must be limited to malt and wine, and the consumption shall not result to intoxication. Director Gonzales explained that intoxication is defined as, “the impairment of a person’s mental faculties ensuing to the loss of control over his/her behavior and/or actions.”

Both the head of office and the officials or employees concerned will be held liable should an untoward incident happen as a result of such consumption, Director Gonzales said.