The Taguig City government has reminded officials and employees that habitual absenteeism and tardiness are grave offenses that may lead to suspension or dismissal from service.

The Schools Division of Taguig and Pateros circulated a memorandum issued by Jeanette Clemente, head of the Human Resource Management Office, emphasizing that punctuality and regular attendance are essential in ensuring efficient public service.

In the memo, Clemente “reminded that punctuality and regular attendance are expected from all government officials and employees in the performance of public service.”

Clemente noted that some employees continue to incur repeated absences and tardiness, which negatively affect office operations and service delivery.

Habitual absenteeism and habitual tardiness, she said, are considered grave offenses and are punishable by suspension of six months and one day to a year for the first offense, and dismissal from the service for the second offense. 

Under the 2025 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service (RACCS), habitual absenteeism is defined as unauthorized absences exceeding the allowable 2.5 days monthly leave credit for at least three months in a semester, or three consecutive months in a year.

Habitual tardiness, meanwhile, refers to being late ten times a month for at least two months in a semester, or two consecutive months in a year.

Clemente directed all officials and employees “to strictly observe official working hours and proper attendance procedures. Department Heads are likewise instructed to closely monitor attendance and ensure compliance with the Civil Service and office rules and regulations.”