Which principle is emphasized in R.A. No. 6713 regarding public service?

The principle of transparency and accountability is a cornerstone of R.A. No. 6713, also known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. This principle ensures that public officials operate in a manner that is open and accessible to the public, fostering trust and confidence in government processes. Transparency involves the availability of information regarding decision-making processes and actions taken by officials, which in turn allows citizens to hold these officials accountable for their performance and ethical behavior.

Public officials are encouraged to disclose pertinent information regarding their work and the services they provide, which strengthens democratic governance. By promoting transparency, the law aims to prevent corruption and misuse of power, while accountability ensures that officials are responsible for their actions and that there are repercussions for unethical conduct.

This principle significantly contrasts with profit maximization, which typically relates to private sector practices rather than public service. Political favoritism undermines the impartiality required in public service, and limited citizen involvement runs counter to the democratic ideals that R.A. No. 6713 seeks to uphold. Overall, emphasizing transparency and accountability embodies the commitment to ethical standards that guide public officials in serving the public interest.