What should a public official do if they receive a gift that may be considered inappropriate?

The correct course of action for a public official upon receiving a gift that may be considered inappropriate is to return the gift or report it to the designated authority. This approach aligns with the principles set forth in R.A. No. 6713, which emphasizes integrity and transparency among public officials. The law aims to prevent any appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest that could arise from accepting gifts.

By returning the gift or reporting it, the official ensures that they remain in compliance with ethical standards and maintain public trust. This action reflects a commitment to uphold the integrity of their office and avoid situations that could undermine proper governance. It also allows for the appropriate authorities to assess the situation and confirm whether the gift indeed falls under the category of unacceptable gifts.

Keeping the gift for personal use or sharing it with colleagues could create perceptions of favoritism or unethical behavior, and donating it to charity may not resolve the underlying issue regarding its appropriateness. Therefore, returning the gift or reporting it is the most responsible and ethical decision a public official can make.