DepEd reminds employees to avoid relationships, social media chats with students outside school

The Department of Education (DepEd) has released an order enumerating its policies to promote professionalism in the delivery of basic education programs which include instructions to avoid relationships and social media interactions with learners outside the school setting.

Department Order 49 series of 2022 dated November 2 was issued amid the implementation of the full in-person classes in public schools.

DO 49 has amended DepEd Order 47 and introduced a new section and specified the following rules which are in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees:

• Treat and approach DepEd colleagues, employees, learners and stakeholders with the highest degree of professionalism, skill, and excellence
• Respect the rights of others and refrain from doing any act that is contrary to law, good morals, good customs, public policy, public order, public safety, and public interest
• Serve and perform one's duties and responsibilities in a prompt, courteous, and fair manner
• Refrain from engaging in any activity or any relationship that may impair one's ability in making objective decisions in the performance of his/her job functions
• Avoid relationships, interaction, and communication, including following social media with learners outside of the school setting, except if they are relatives
• Desist from any act that may compromise one's integrity as a government employees and that may compromise the honor of the DepEd

DepEd Order 47, which only specified policies against seeking endorsements, contributions, political accommodations, and any favorable actions from politicians to facilitate the implementation of the department's programs and projects, was further revised to include the following:

• Refrain from requesting or obtaining support or endorsement from any third part in the hiring, transfer, promotion, removal, or any other personnel movement
• Raise issues and concerns regarding basic education via formal and appropriate DepEd channels, either directly to the Office of the Secretary or through the concerned Assistant Secretary or Undersecretary, without resorting to any political or third-party intervention or accommodation.

The Education Department, likewise, reminded its employees about the legal restrictions in the use of social media, whether for personal use or professional function.

Employees are told to be cautious in sharing posts and contents and directed not to participate in the spreading of rumors and false information.

The department also said employees shall not unduly post online attacks against their colleagues. Rather, they must utilize legal and human resource mediation procedures.

Officials and employees are told not to "disparage" DepEd and must always be mindful of the reputation and honor of the organization.

Lastly, the DepEd employees are reminded to use the institution's email addresses for work-related subscriptions and applications.

DepEd email accounts must not be used for any personal social media account, profile, or activity. — Hana Bordey/RSJ, GMA Integrated News