What action must a public official take if confronted with a complaint against them?

When a public official is confronted with a complaint against them, the appropriate action is to cooperate with the investigating authorities and provide the necessary information. This aligns with the principles outlined in R.A. No. 6713, which emphasizes accountability, transparency, and integrity among public officials.

Cooperating with investigations demonstrates a commitment to ethical conduct and respect for the processes meant to uphold standards within public service. It allows for a fair assessment of the complaint and upholds the rule of law. By being transparent and forthright, officials not only protect their own reputation but also reinforce public trust in government institutions.

In contrast, ignoring the complaint would undermine the accountability mechanisms in place and potentially lead to further issues. Hiring a lawyer may be appropriate in some situations, but it should not be the first action taken, as cooperation is crucial to the investigation process. Resigning from a position without addressing the complaint may be seen as evasive and could leave unresolved questions about the conduct in question. Thus, the best course of action is to engage constructively with the complaint and the investigatory process.