How does R.A. No. 6713 suggest public officials should handle conflicts of interest?

Public officials are required by R.A. No. 6713 to fully disclose any interests that may lead to a conflict of interest. This provision is crucial because it promotes transparency and accountability in public service. By disclosing their interests, officials enable the public to assess potential biases in their decision-making processes. This requirement helps ensure that public officers adhere to their duty to act in the best interest of the public rather than being swayed by personal gains or external influences.

The law prioritizes integrity within the public sector and underlines the importance of ethical conduct. This practice also fosters trust between the officials and the constituents they serve, as it demonstrates a commitment to ethical governance. By requiring disclosure, the framework encourages officials to manage conflicts appropriately rather than ignoring them or attempting to conceal them, which would undermine ethical standards and public confidence in government operations.