Naga enforces “No Gift Policy” in city gov't offices

All offices of the city government will soon be displaying “No Gift Policy” posters in their entrances and public areas, following Mayor Leni Robredo’s issuance of Executive Order No. 58, which institutionalizes a comprehensive prohibition on the giving and receiving of gifts in any form.

The directive mandates that the “No Gift Policy” be prominently displayed in all city offices and integrated into contracts, bid documents, and official correspondence. This move reinforces the city government’s ongoing commitment to ethical public service and good governance.

Mayor Robredo said the measure aims to instill among Nagueños—especially city employees—the value of serving the public with “utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency,” emphasizing that gifts are unnecessary in obtaining government services.

One of the key provisions cited in the order is Presidential Decree No. 46, which criminalizes both the giving and receiving of gifts by reason of official position, regardless of the occasion, including Christmas. The directive also reiterates provisions under Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), and the Administrative Code of 1987, all of which prohibit the solicitation or acceptance of gifts, favors, or anything of monetary value in connection with official duties.

Robredo underscored that the policy does not only prohibit acts of corruption but also those that may create even the appearance of impropriety, recognizing that public servants must always remain above suspicion and reproach.

The new order builds upon the city government’s earlier Executive Order No. 1, which reaffirmed Naga’s commitment to good governance through a framework anchored on accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership.

“The institutionalization of a comprehensive ‘No Gift Policy’ is a safeguard against conflicts of interest, corruption, and even the appearance of partiality or undue influence. Public office is a public trust, and we must always uphold that trust,” Robredo said.