Can public officials face criminal liabilities under R.A. No. 6713?

Public officials can indeed face criminal liabilities under R.A. No. 6713, especially if their actions involve violations related to corruption or misconduct. The law emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and accountability for public officials, establishing that they must conduct themselves with integrity and transparency. If they engage in corrupt practices or misconduct, they are subject to prosecution under relevant laws, which may include the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, among others.

The provisions of the Code make it clear that ethical breaches can lead to severe consequences, including criminal charges. This framework is designed to uphold the integrity of public service and ensure that officials are held accountable for their actions, maintaining public trust.

The other options touch on elements that do not accurately reflect the legal framework surrounding R.A. No. 6713. For instance, the concept of protection under the law suggests immunity, which contradicts the accountability mechanisms established in the statute. Similarly, the idea that criminal liabilities only come into play if a formal complaint is filed or are limited to civil liabilities does not align with the proactive nature of R.A. No. 6713 in promoting ethical conduct and imposing legal consequences for misconduct.