Case Study

Case Study # 1

AN ISLAND FIRESTORM

           If I were the official concern, after knowing the findings of the chemist that the drinking water taken from deep wells in the island were highly contaminated with coliform (bacteria found in human wastes) and were dangerous to health and the sea became unsafe too due to contamination from sewerage system through seepage, I will immediately call the attention of the owners of the establishments, tenants, residents, Brgy. Officials and other government officials concern to discuss if what is the right thing to do to protect the health of the community especially the tourists and visitors.

          

           As a public official, it is your obligation to promote the well-being or welfare of the community at large.

        

             I can show my commitment to public interest through educating the people on the island abut proper waste disposal.  There should be learnings on the segregation matters and on how to be safe at all times.

Case Study # 2

WANTED: DEAD HEROES

              If I were Rick, I will not allow a certain Alonzo, an alleged Army Colonel to pass through because he violated the law.  Considering that we were outnumbered, I will call immediately the nearest police stations in the area to ask for police assistance.  I will inform Alonzo, an alleged Army Colonel, of his constitutional rights.

            An Army Colonel named “Alonzo”, was in “flagrante delicto” committing an act in violation of anti-illegal logging act.

             Being a government official with a rank of Colonel, he knew if what is right and wrong.  He will be criminally and administratively liable for violation of the law.  The Philippine Army is not only the protector of the Filipino people but also a partner in nation building, true to its slogan, “At your service, across the land”.

            And if ever Colonel Alonzo insists to leave I will report him to his superior officer and I will seek assistance from a police to conduct hot pursuit operation in order to arrest Colonel Alonzo.

            

Case Study # 3

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

Yes, Glenda is right.

            Being a government employee, you should uphold the public interest over and above persona interest.

            In this case, Glenda’s decision that she will not prepare the paperwork to justify allowing the ACME Mining Company to start an open-pit mining in an area where they have no time to do a proper environmental impact study is correct.

            As a public official concern, you should always adhere to the proper rules and regulations for the welfare of the people.

            Furthermore, Glenda’s decision to report to Senator Enriquez, being the Chairman of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources is tenable because she (Glenda) has no other choice but to report it to the higher authorities.  Glenda is just doing her job to uphold the public interest over and above her personal interest.  If she will grant the request of her Division Chief, what will happen? Probably, the proposed project will pose hazard to the environment and/or to its surrounding community.

            If ever Senator Enriquez would not take any action regarding the complaint of Glenda, she can go to the media or press to report the said issue.

Case Study # 4

PICK ME UP

          Gift-giving is a part of our culture.  Being a public or government employee you can accept gifts only that are nominal and insignificant.

           

            In this case, Ronnie de Guzman did his job promptly and effectively, the reason why the title was awarded to Mrs. Santos immediately.  Ronnie de Guzman performs his duties and responsibilities and he did not demand money or gifts from Mrs. Santos, hence he is not be held administratively liable.

            The envelope (crisp of money) left by Mrs. Santos is a token of appreciation.  It cannot be considered as bribe since the gift is given after the service without any hint of bribery and demand from Mrs. Santos.

            But if I were in Ronnie’s shoes, I will follow Mrs. Santos and return the envelope.  But if I can’t find her, I am left with no choice and just keep it and consider it as a token of appreciation.

            Section 3 (c ) of RA 6713 otherwise known as “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees” provides that “gift” refers to a thing or a right to dispose of gratuitously, or any act of liberality, in favor of another who accepts it, and shall include a simulated sale or an ostensibly onerous disposition thereof.  It shall not include an unsolicited gift of nominal or insignificant value not given in anticipation of, or in exchange for, a favor from a public official or employee.