Bayan Muna Party-list filed a petition at the Supreme Court on April 25 to challenge the legality and constitutionality of the Memorandum Circular No. 3, Series of 2025 issued by the Civil Service Commission last March. According to the party’s petition, the order violates the constitutional rights of government employees, particularly their freedom of expression, participation in political discussions, and rights as workers.

The said memorandum prohibits employees from engaging in political matters on social media to supposedly maintain their “neutrality” and avoid partisan activity, especially during election periods. They are prohibited from liking, sharing, and commenting on political issues on social media.

Bayan Muna first nominee Atty. Neri Colmenares said the memorandum is a dangerous step that threatens democratic space. “This is a gross violation of the rights of government employees to express their sentiments,” Colmenares emphasized.

The lawyer further said that the law (Section 29 of RA 2260) states that employees may express their opinions on political issues as long as they do not participate in partisan politics.

On April 14, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), Alliance of Health Workers (AHW), and Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (Courage) rallied at the CSC office in Barangay Batasan Hills, Quezon City to demand the order’s repeal.

The prohibition on government employees expressing their sentiments on social media-especially when it concerns policies and politicians affecting their rights-was also denounced by Bayan Muna third nominee and Courage adviser Ferdinand Gaite.

Colmenares said Bayan Muna will not allow the silencing of government workers. “We will fight this in courts and in the streets,” Colmenares concluded.