What fundamental principle must guide public officials in decision-making?

Public officials are expected to prioritize the public interest above personal interests in their decision-making processes. This principle is foundational to the ethical standards established in R.A. No. 6713, as it emphasizes the responsibility of public servants to act in ways that benefit the community and uphold the trust placed in them by the citizens they serve.

Choosing the public interest over personal gain ensures that officials make decisions that enhance the welfare of the community rather than serve their individual motives. This commitment is crucial for fostering public trust, maintaining integrity within government, and ensuring that all actions taken by officials align with the overarching goal of serving the public good. By adhering to this principle, public officials contribute to a more transparent, accountable, and responsible government.

In contrast, other options propose less appropriate guiding principles, such as prioritizing personal gain or attempting to find a balance that may weaken the commitment to serving the public effectively. Seeking approval from higher authorities can be important in some contexts but does not define the guiding principle for decision-making itself. Thus, focusing on public interest stands as a clear directive for ethical governance.