Reiterating its zero-tolerance policy on abuse and sexual harassment, an official of the Quezon City government has been suspended after sexually harassing a fellow employee.
In a statement issued on Friday, Mayor Joy Belmonte said the female complainant detailed several acts of verbal and physical harassment by a high-ranking male official.
“The Quezon City government is committed to addressing all sexual harassment cases regardless of gender and position in any department,” Belmonte said.
The complaint letter was forwarded to the Committee on Decorum and Investigation - Legislative Department (CODI-Legis).
After conducting several hearings, Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, the disciplining authority, found the official guilty of the less grave offense of sexual harassment.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 12-S2020 and 2017 Rules on Administrative Cases of the Civil Service Commission, the official was meted out a six-month suspension without pay.
"We will always advocate an office culture that values and uplifts one another. Our work environment should reflect that we are servants of God, and this includes ensuring that all employees will feel safe and protected, by not tolerating any misconduct," probers said in a report.
The QC CODI-Executive is investigating another sexual harassment involving city hall workers.
Belmonte assured the city government will remain vigilant against all forms of sexual offenses and other violations of the rights of its employees.
She encouraged city government employees to report all act of harassment and abuse in order to break the culture of silence, usually due to fear of losing jobs or the chance of being promoted, especially if the perpetrators are their superiors.
“May this case serve as a reminder to our employees that we will not be complacent against any erring employee or official. We encourage all victims of abuse to report to our Gender and Development Office so we can initiate proper administrative and legal action,” Belmonte said.
The city government’s female department heads are chairpersons and members of the CODI.
Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 11-s 2021, in relation to Republic Act 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act, states that “every CODI shall be headed by a woman and not less than half of its members shall be women”.
The law says “men and women must have equality, security and safety not only in private, but also on the streets, public spaces, online, workplaces and educational and training institutions”.
Source: Philippines News Agency
