CSC launches online forum to address more queries

(File photo from AP)

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has widened its digital presence with the launching of its online information and legal assistance to accommodate more queries from the public.

In a news statement, the CSC said the public can worry no more of going personally to a CSC branch to communicate with government officers because they are now a click away from the CSC’s Online Information and Legal Assistance forum.

Information on civil service laws, rules, and regulations are now made available at www.csc.gov.ph/forum.

The online forum aims to give the public “a more accessible and cost-effective means to seek advice or clarifications on legal matters, such as the process for handling administrative disciplinary cases, invalidation or disapproval of appointments, personnel actions, and other civil service policies,” the CSC said in a statement.

When going to the site, three board categories would welcome the visitors: the User Lounge, the Administrative Legal Issues, and the Frequently Asked Questions.

First-time users have to create first their own accounts before logging in, so they can join a conversation depending on a certain topic and post their queries or comments.

Online action officers from the CSC’s Office for Legal Affairs are on board to accommodate such inquiries.

The CSC, however, pointed out that questions on pending cases and civil service examinations will not be entertained in the online forum.

“The project was designed only as a venue for obtaining basic information or legal counseling service,” the CSC explained.

“Binding legal opinions and rulings, especially on more complex issues, will have to be issued by the Commission upon submission of a formal written request,” they added.

The CSC said that through this online facility, they are hoping for an increased understanding of civil service rules, and a reduced number of phone-in and walk-in inquiries. Renz Paolo B. Regis, INQUIRER.net trainee / JPV