For many Filipinos, working in the government is a dream come true. The government provides opportunities for Filipinos to work and earn a decent salary while serving the country at the same time. And one of the first things you must do is to take the Civil Service Exam of the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
This step is essential to becoming a government employee. But what is the Civil Service Commission, how does it work, and why should you take this exam? Let’s find out.
What is the Meaning and Purpose of the CSC?
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) is a government agency tasked with administering examinations, hiring and promoting government workers, and ensuring they are qualified. It was established under the Civil Service Law of 1937 to ensure meritocracy in the selection process for government employees.
Brief History
The Philippines’ civil service system was established in 1900 through Public Law No. 5, which provided for the establishment and maintenance of an efficient and honest system. A Board composed of a Chief Examiner, a Chairman, and a Secretary was then established to administer civil service examinations. The Board was then reorganized in 1905.
The Philippines’ 1935 Constitution clearly established the establishment of the merit system as the basis for the selection of government employees. The following years saw the Bureau’s jurisdiction expand to include the various branches of government.
In 1959, the Civil Service Law was enacted, which provided for the establishment of a centralized administrative structure for the country’s civil service system. This law also transferred the functions of the Bureau of Civil Service to a Department.
In 1975, a Presidential Decree made a fundamental change in the role of the Civil Service Commission. It now provides that it is the central agency of government that provides the services to the country’s civil service system.
The Administrative Code of the Philippines, which was issued in 1987, provides for the establishment of collective bargaining and self-organization within the civil service system. It also reaffirms the principles and policies of the previous administration.
With the commission’s establishment, Filipinos now have a government agency that serves as the central authority for civil service matters in the Philippines. The commission ensures that all government employees are treated fairly and equitably, including those who work for the local government units (LGUs). Learn more about its functions and responsibilities in the following section.
Functions and Responsibilities of the CSC
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) was established as a department under Republic Act 2260, amended in 1973 to establish a constitutional body. It was then reorganized under Executive Order 180, which was issued on November 21, 1986. The 1987 Administrative Code of the Civil Service provides that the Commission is mandated to promote professionalism, efficiency, and integrity in the conduct of its operations.
Anyone aspiring to become a public servant must take the CSC examination, which is administered yearly. The Commission also has the power to create and administer entrance examinations for any government position. Apart from this, it also issues licenses to civil service-eligible residents who are interested in becoming professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, teachers, and engineers.
Laws Enacted by the CSC
The CSC is also mandated to enact its own set of rules and regulations for the civil service. It has done so in the form of several laws, which include:
Executive Order No. 138 – Full Devolution of certain functions of the Executive Branch to Local Governments, Creation of a Committee on devolution and for other purposes
DA-DILG-DBM-CSC JMC No. 2, s. 2020 – IMPLEMENTING GUIDELINES ON THE STRENGTHENING AND ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AGRICULTURAL AND BIOSYSTEMS ENGINEERING GROUPS OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs)
CSC-COA-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2018 – Amendment to the CSC-COA-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2017
JOINT MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 1, s. 2020 – OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) STANDARDS FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR
CSC-DOLE-SSS Joint Circular No. 1 s.2019 – Clarificatory Statement on the Date of Effectivity of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 11210 or the 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law (EMLL)
Merger and Consolidation of Philippine Guarantee Programs and Agencies (PGPAs)
IRR RA 11210 – An Act Increasing the Maternity Leave Period to 105 Days for Female Workers
Amendment to the CSC-COA-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2017
CSC-DILG Joint Circular No 01,s, 2017 – Local Executives Program (LEP)
CSC-COA-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2017 – Rules and Regulations Governing Contract of Service and Job Order Workers in the Government
Republic Act 10173 – An Act Protecting Individual Personal Information In Information And Communications Systems In The Government And The Private Sector, Creating For This Purpose A National Privacy Commission, And For Other Purposes
Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10173, known as the “Data Privacy Act of 2012”
CSC-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s.2015: Amendment to Section 3.2 of CSC-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2006 (Guidelines for Availing of the Rehabilitation Privilege)
CSC-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s.2012: Rules and Regulations on the Grant of Step Increment/s Due to Meritorious Performance and Step Increment Due to Length of Service
CSC-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2010-01: Protection of the Bureaucracy Against Tobacco Industry Interference
E.O. No. 80: Directing the Adoption of a Performance-Based Incentive System For Government Employees
– Memorandum Circular No.2012-02: Guidelines to Clarify the Good Governance Conditions
CSC Reso. No. 1302242 Re: Amendments to IRR of R.A. No. 10154
IRR of R.A. No. 10154 – An Act Requiring All Concerned Govt. Agencies to Ensure the Early Release of the Retirement Pay …
- A. No. 6713 – Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees
– Rules Implementing R.A. No. 6713
Republic Act No. 9242 or the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law
– IRR of R.A. No. 9242
– Sample Certification from Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI)
Administrative Code of 1987
Note: To find out more about the latest government issuances enacted by the CSC, please check out the ‘Issuances’ page of the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph.
List of Programs and Services of the CSC
The CSC offers a wide range of programs and services that are designed to help Filipinos secure their rights and entitlements, as well as provide them with the opportunity to acquire skills that would help them find jobs that match their qualifications. Below is a list of some of these programs and services:
HR Initiatives
Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence in Human Resource Management (PRIME-HRM) – The program aims to enhance the quality of human resource management by integrating the various programs and initiatives designed to help government agencies improve their performance. These include the PMAP and the CSCSA. Through the program, government agencies can develop their HR practices and systems to help them achieve excellence.
The concept of Prime-HRM involves increasing engagement among the agency’s various employees. This includes the HRO, as well as the rank-and-file staff members.
Strategic Performance Management System – The concept of the SPMS is to align employees’ performance with the organisation’s goals. It enables employees to achieve these goals while meeting the organisation’s targets as part of its strategic plan.
The goal of the Philippine Development Plan and the Agency Strategic Plan is to align the organisation’s performance with its various constituents’ goals and objectives. The other objective is to ensure that the organization’s performance is linked to the various HR systems and procedures.
Competency-Based Recruitment and Qualifications Standards – The Civil Service Commission (CSC) aims to integrate the various competencies of government agencies in the recruitment and training of employees. By establishing the CBRQS, the agency aims to provide a framework for developing high-performing civil servants.
A competency is a set of skills and attitudes designed to help an organization achieve its goals. These are often defined as essential components of an organization’s success.
Competency-Based Learning and Development Program – The CSC aims to integrate the various competencies of government agencies into their human resource systems. Through the development of the Competency-Based Learning and Development Program (CBLDP), the organization can address the issue of employee development gaps. This approach uses a framework that considers the organisation’s needs and the standards used to evaluate and develop its employees.
The CBLDP uses the competencies framework to design targeted programs that are aligned with the requirements of the organization’s employees.
The CBLDP focuses on the employees’ needs by providing various training programs that are designed to meet their requirements. These include on-the-job training, classroom training, and development activities. Aside from training, L&D programs also help government agencies improve their HR maturity levels by equipping employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform at their best.
Leadership and Coaching Program – The goal of the Leadership Coaching Program (LCP) is to help employees develop their personal best selves and improve their performance. Through a coaching process, individuals can identify their own best fit and develop their own unique talents. Although the coach doesn’t provide solutions, he or she can help the employees find the best ways to meet their goals.
Anti-Corruption Initiatives
Report Card Survey – The Report Card Survey is a quantitative evaluation of the quality of public services that government service agencies follow. It is conducted to check the compliance with the requirements of the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007.
The objective of the RCS is to collect data related to public health and safety. It also helps in addressing civic accountability through the involvement of the media and civil society.
Service Delivery Excellence Program (SDEP) – The ratings given by the RCS are based on the quality of the service provided by the establishments. They can then be categorized into four categories: Excellent, Good, Outstanding, and Failed. Those that receive a rating of Failed will participate in a Service Delivery Excellence Program (SDEP).
The goal the SDEP is to improve the efficiency of the service office by conducting workshops and facilitating staff and system training.
Contact Center ng Bayan (CCB) – The CCB is a government feedback mechanism that allows citizens to provide feedback and suggestions regarding the various frontline service procedures of the government. It also allows them to report their complaints and commendations.
The CCB was established by the Information and Communications Technology Office-National Computer Center (ICTO-NCC) and the Civil Service Commission to support implementing the anti-red tape legislation of 2007.
ARTA Watch – The Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) ARTA Watch is an initiative that aims to support the implementation of the 2007 Anti-Red Tape Act. It involves monitoring the activities of various agencies. In addition to looking for violations of the No Noon Break policy, the officials also check the services of other employees.
After a surprise visit, the officials of the CSC discuss the various aspects of the ARTA Act with their staff members. They then produce a report card survey and a copy of their observations to the appropriate office.
The goal of the ARTA Watch is to raise awareness about the importance of proper government services. It also aims to reinforce the CSC’s commitment to improving the quality of its operations.
Rewards and Incentives
Honor Awards Program – The Civil Service Commission’s Honor Awards program is an annual initiative recognizing government employees and officials for their efforts and performance. It aims to motivate and inspire them to improve their quality of work. The awards program culminates in recognising and presenting awards during the Civil Service’s anniversary in September.
Pamanang Lingkod Bayani – The goal of the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani is to recognize individuals who died while performing their duties or duties in the line of duty. It is a tribute to the individuals who served the public in a way that reflected the ideals of a bayani.
Administrative Justice
Public Sector Unionism (PSU)
Gender and Development
Health and Wellness
Civil Service Institute
CSI provides various services to government agencies and civil servants, including training and development programs designed to enhance their organisations’ capabilities and performance. These programs are focused on developing leadership and HR capacity, as well as establishing foundations that support civil servants’ work.
Examination and Eligibilities
The Civil Service Exam is a national certification exam used to determine whether individuals are qualified to work in the public service sector.
5 Tips on How to Pass the Civil Service Exam
Tip #1. Never leave an item blank.
The CSE is not a right-to-wrong test. It does not penalize those who get wrong answers. If you are not sure about the answer, take a guess.
Tip #2. Do not waste too much time on difficult questions.
Instead, try to answer as many questions as possible while taking as little time as possible on difficult topics.
Tip #3. Pray.
Hard work combined with prayer is the best recipe for success.
Tip #4 (AFTER taking the CSE). Forget about it.
The waiting game begins after taking the test. You have nothing left to do about it. Instead of worrying, try to focus on the positive.
Tip #5. Do not give up.
If you fail the civil service exam, do not give up. Instead, try to learn from your mistakes and prepare for the next time. For instance, try to analyze where you made mistakes instead of following the same strategy and how you can improve.
Central Office Services
- Request for Certified True Copy (CTC) of CSC Decisions/Resolutions – Upon request, the CSLO issues certified true copies of CSC Decisions/Resolutions promulgated by the Commission within two (2) years prior to the current year, to concerned parties or their authorized representatives. Those promulgated more than three (3) years prior to the current year, are requested from the Library and Archives Management Division (LAMD), Integrated Records Management Office (IRMO).
- Request for Certified True Copy (CTC)/Photocopy of Case Records – Concerned parties may request certified true copies/photocopies of case records in the custody of the Office for Legal Affairs (OLA) to be used for specific purposes. These refer to records of administrative cases decided or currently pending for decision/resolution before the Commission.
- Issuance of Certificate of No Pending Administrative Case – The issuance of a Certificate of No Pending Case serves as confirmation that the requesting government official or employee has no pending administrative case before the Commission. The certificate is sought as a supporting document for appointment, promotion, travel abroad, conferment of rank by the Career Executive Service Board (CESB), and for other legal purposes.
- Issuance of Certificate of No Pending Administrative Case (through Mail/Online Request) – The issuance of a Certificate of No Pending Case serves as confirmation that the requesting government official or employee has no pending administrative case before the Commission. The certificate is sought as a supporting document for appointment, promotion, travel abroad, conferment of rank by the Career Executive Service Board (CESB), and for other legal purposes.
5A. Issuance of Verified Civil Service Eligibility (Agency Request)
Verification of civil service eligibility is done to validate the authenticity of the eligibility. This involves electronic/manual searching of the eligibility data of an individual from the eligibility database or from the physical files of the master list or register of eligibles.
This service shall later be provided through the CS Eligibility Verification System (CSEVS) which the agency HRMOs and the public can access to verify eligibility information.
5B. Issuance of Verified Civil Service Examination Results (Walk-in Request, Optional)
Examination results, in a letter form printed in CSC letterhead, is issued to walk-in clients requesting for verification of their Civil Service examination results. The examination results are based on validated records on file. This service shall later be provided through the CS Eligibility Verification System (CSEVS) which can be accessed by the public to verify eligibility information.
- Issuance of Certification of Eligibility (for Lost Certificates)- Printed on Security Paper
The Certification of Eligibility (CoE) printed on security paper* is an official document confirming an eligible’s unavailable original Certificate/Certification of Eligibility or Report of Rating, based on validated records on file.
- Issuance of Authenticated Certificate of Eligibility (Online Request)
The authenticated Certificate of Eligibility is an official document issued to eligibles who have original Certificate/s of Eligibility or Report of Rating and want it/these authenticated.
- Response to Request for in-house Training
Upon request of a government agency, CSC conducts in-house training subject to agreed terms and conditions including payment of appropriate fees.
- Response to Request for Accreditation of Learning and Development Institution/s – CSC CO (CSI)
Private and non-government institutions providing learning and development interventions to the bureaucracy may avail the CSC’s accreditation program.
10A. Issuance of Certified Copies of SALN
Authorized parties may request copies of sworn Statements of Assets and Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) to be used for specific purposes.
10B. Issuance of Certified Copy of CSC Records (Appointment Papers issued by Government Agencies in NCR and Region IV from 1980-1989, Service Cards/Records, Leave without Pay), and CSC Issuance
Authorized parties may request copies of Appointment Papers issued by Government Agencies in NCR and Region IV from 1980-1989, Service Cards/Records, Leave without Pay, and CSC Issuance to be used for specific purposes.
- Handling of queries/requests for assistance on Civil Service Matters (Walk- in and Online)
Public Assistance and Information Office (PAIO) provides general information on civil service matters and handles requests for assistance on CSC services.
- Issuance of Certificate of CNA Registration
The Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) forged between the agency’s management and the accredited employees‘ organization is evaluated for compliance with documentary requirements before the issuance of certificate of registration signed by the Chairperson of CSC.
The process starts with the receipt of documents from IRMO. The documents are evaluated by the action officer using the PEARS as to compliance with the requirements set forth in Executive Order No. 180. If found compliant, the Certificate of Registration is prepared for signature of the Chairperson of CSC.
- Response to Job Applications
This describes the procedures employed by the Office for Human Resource Management and Development (OHRMD) in handling job applications submitted by individuals who are interested to join the CSC workforce.
Online Services
CSC Online Registration, Appointment and Scheduling System (ORAS) – The ORAS is a web-based application that offers aspiring civil servants the opportunity to register, apply and schedule appointments online. It allows users to access their personal information, view current and future appointments, and make changes or cancel them if necessary.
Online Career Service Examination Result Generation System (OCSERGS) – This is a web-based application that allows applicants to check the status of their results in the CSC Career Service Examination. It also allows users to generate a copy of their official exam results if they qualify for an interview at any CSC Regional Office or Provincial/City Field Office.
Video: All About Qualification Standards – Experience and Training
In this video posted by the official YouTube channel of CSC PH, you will learn more about the qualification standards and requirements for government jobs in the Philippines. This video will help you decide whether or not you are qualified for a particular job and provide valuable tips on preparing and improving your chances in future exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is BNSE in CSC?
The Civil on Service Commission (CSC) grants BNSE to qualified individuals who are committed to improving the nutrition program of local communities. In line with Presidential Decree 1569, which provides for the deployment of a BNSE in every local government unit, the individuals are required to undergo training and perform volunteer services.
2. What is the CSC resolution for 2020?
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has issued a resolution that provides guidelines for the submission of 2020 Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs) during times of emergency or calamity.
3. What is the CSC in October?
As part of its observance of Local Government Month, the Civil Service Commission has reminded local government officials about their special eligibilities.
4. How to get a refund from the CSC?
The Cash Services Corporation (CSC) said that the refund can be made through a variety of methods, such as bank deposit, credit or debit card, and payment facilities. The exact guidelines for each method are detailed in the exam advisory.
5. When is the CSC exam held every year?
The Commission sets the civil service exam schedule. For the Paper and Pencil test, the examinations are conducted twice a year, usually in March and August. The regional and field offices of the Civil Service Commission start accepting applications a couple of months before the test.
6. What is the role of CSC in the Philippines?
The Civil Service Commission is a constitutional body with the power to oversee civil service operations in the Philippines. The other two agencies are the Commission on Elections and Commission on Audit.
7. Who is eligible for Civil Service Exam?
The Civil Service Exam does not have an educational requirement. You can still take it even if you’re not a high school or K-12 graduate. Even if you’ve not finished elementary school, you can still take the test.
Summary
Aside from conducting the civil service exam, the Civil Service Commission (CSC)also provides job applications for government positions that are open to the public. The agency also promotes equal employment opportunities and makes sure that all applicants are treated fairly during the application process. It ensures that only those qualified for each position get hired. Now that you have a better understanding of the commission, you can apply for the next civil service examination and make your dream of becoming a government employee come true.
We hope that you found this article informative and that you’ll be able to apply for a government position soon. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. We’d love to hear from you!
Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only. The information contained herein should not be used for any other purpose. to learn more about the CSC and its complete list of programs and services, you may reach out using the following contact information.
READ NEXT: Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG): What You Need to Know
Contact Information
Address: Civil Service Commission, Constitution Hills, Batasang Pambansa Complex Diliman 1126 Quezon City, Philippines
Telephone Number: 8931-8092 / 8931-7939 / 8931-7935
Website: http://www.csc.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/civilservicegovph
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