The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has temporarily suspended its office uniform requirement for all officials and employees, following reports of public harassment targeting personnel.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the suspension, requested by the workers’ union, is meant to protect ordinary employees from bullying linked to the ongoing corruption probe on flood control projects.
“Ang pinakamasakit na tinatamaan dito sa lahat ng nangyayaring ito, dahil sa ilang mga masasamang tao dito sa DPWH, ay ‘yung mabubuting tao dito sa DPWH na mas nakararami,” Dizon said.
He added that some employees were reportedly harassed while riding MRT trains, jeepneys, and buses.
In a memorandum dated Sept. 9, Dizon directed that officials and employees “are excused from wearing the prescribed office uniform until further notice,” citing “current events” as the reason.
Despite the temporary uniform exemption, the DPWH advisory reminded all personnel to report for duty in appropriate and presentable attire.
The measure follows Civil Service Commission Circular No. 16, s. 2024 (Revised Dress Code for Government Officials and Employees) and highlights the importance of upholding professionalism in public service. (Trixee Rosel)
