Introduction to General Information
The General Information section tests your knowledge on topics of national importance that are relevant to your role as a public servant. While it carries a smaller percentage than other sub-tests, mastering it can provide the crucial points needed to pass the exam. The focus is not on trivial facts but on foundational knowledge about the Philippine government, law, and society.
Exam Tip: Focus on understanding the principles behind the laws and articles, not just memorizing section numbers. Questions are often situational.
Part 1: The 1987 Philippine Constitution
This is the fundamental law of the land. You need to be familiar with its basic structure and key provisions, especially those concerning public office and citizens' rights.
Key Articles to Study
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Article II: Declaration of Principles and State Policies
- Section 1: The Philippines is a democratic and republican State. Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them.
- Section 27: The State shall maintain honesty and integrity in the public service and take positive and effective measures against graft and corruption.
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Article III: Bill of Rights
- This article guarantees the fundamental rights of every Filipino.
- Due Process and Equal Protection (Sec. 1): "No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws."
- Freedom of Speech and Expression (Sec. 4): Guarantees the right to speak freely and publish without prior censorship.
- Right against Unreasonable Searches and Seizures (Sec.2): Protects individuals from arbitrary searches by the government.
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Article XI: Accountability of Public Officers
- Section 1: "Public office is a public trust." Public officers and employees must, at all times, be accountable to the people, serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency, act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives.
- This article also covers the grounds for impeachment of high officials (President, VP, Supreme Court Justices, etc.) and the roles of the Ombudsman and Sandiganbayan.
Practice Question (Constitution)
- The principle that "public office is a public trust" is enshrined in which article of the 1987 Constitution? a) Article II: State Policies b) Article III: Bill of Rights c) Article IX: Constitutional Commissions d) Article XI: Accountability of Public Officers
Answer: (d) Article XI
Part 2: Republic Act No. 6713 - Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees
This law establishes the standards of behavior expected from everyone in government service.
Eight (8) Norms of Conduct
Every public official and employee shall observe the following standards:
- Commitment to Public Interest: Prioritize the public's interest over personal interests.
- Professionalism: Perform duties with the highest degree of excellence and skill.
- Justness and Sincerity: Remain true to the people at all times.
- Political Neutrality: Provide service to everyone without unfair discrimination, regardless of party affiliation or preference.
- Responsiveness to the Public: Provide prompt, courteous, and adequate service to the public.
- Nationalism and Patriotism: Be loyal to the Republic and to the Filipino people.
- Commitment to Democracy: Uphold the Constitution and put loyalty to country above loyalty to persons or party.
- Simple Living: Live a modest life appropriate to their position and income.
Prohibited Acts and Transactions
- Receiving Gifts: Public officials are prohibited from soliciting or accepting gifts, gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value in the course of their official duties.
- Outside Employment: Prohibited if it conflicts with or is incompatible with their official duties.
Practice Question (R.A. 6713)
- A municipal clerk receives a small, unsolicited token of appreciation from a citizen he assisted. Under R.A. 6713, what is the most appropriate action? a) Accept the gift as it is a token of gratitude. b) Refuse the gift politely and explain the government's policy against it. c) Accept the gift and share it with officemates. d) Ask the citizen to give a larger gift next time.
Answer: (b) The law makes it clear that employees shall not accept gifts. The value is irrelevant; the principle of refusing them is what matters.
Part 3: Republic Act No. 3019 - Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act
This law specifically defines and penalizes corrupt actions by public officers.
Key Corrupt Practices
- Persuading or inducing another public officer to commit a violation of rules.
- Directly or indirectly requesting or receiving any gift, present, or percentage for himself or for any other person, in connection with any contract or transaction with the government.
- Having a direct or indirect financial interest in any business, contract, or transaction in which he takes part in his official capacity.
Part 4: Other Relevant Topics
Environmental Management and Protection
- Knowledge of basic environmental laws is sometimes included.
- Key Agencies: Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
- Concepts: Climate change, waste management (R.A. 9003 - Ecological Solid Waste Management Act).
Peace and Human Rights Issues
- Basic understanding of peace processes and human rights concepts.
Current Events
- While less frequent, questions about major national and socio-economic issues may appear. A general awareness of the news in the months leading up to the exam is helpful.
Final Practice Question
- A government employee who prioritizes serving a relative over other people in the queue is violating which norm of conduct under R.A. 6713? a) Professionalism b) Political Neutrality c) Justness and Sincerity d) Commitment to Public Interest
Answer: (d) Commitment to Public Interest. This also touches on (c) Justness and Sincerity. The core violation is placing personal/family interest above the public's equal right to service.