GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The city government has rolled out revised administrative disciplinary rules aimed at strengthening safeguards against sexual harassment and related misconduct within the local bureaucracy.

Through Executive Order No. 16, Series of 2026, Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao approved updated guidelines that define clearer procedures, reinforce investigative mechanisms, and outline stronger administrative actions against offenders among city officials and employees.

Clearer definition, broader coverage

The executive order classifies sexual harassment as an administrative offense when committed in work-related settings or in contexts involving education and training. The move aligns local disciplinary rules with national standards on workplace conduct and accountability, reinforcing zero-tolerance policies within government institutions.

City officials said the revised rules aim to provide a more responsive and structured framework for handling complaints, ensuring due process while protecting complainants from retaliation.

Formalizing the investigative body

A key feature of the order is the formal establishment of a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI). The committee is mandated to receive complaints, conduct fact-finding and formal investigations, and submit its report and recommendations within 10 days after the termination of proceedings.

The creation of a standing CODI institutionalizes a mechanism that is both accessible and time-bound — two elements often cited by governance advocates as crucial in addressing harassment cases efficiently.

Under the order, the committee’s findings will guide the next steps in the disciplinary process, including possible sanctions.

Preventive suspension powers

The executive order also authorizes the city mayor, acting as disciplinary authority, to impose preventive suspension on a respondent. This may be done upon petition of the complainant or motu proprio, based on the recommendation of the CODI.

Preventive suspension is intended to prevent interference with the investigation, protect witnesses, and preserve the integrity of the proceedings. However, officials clarified that such suspension does not constitute a finding of guilt and remains subject to due process.

Balancing accountability and due process

Legal observers noted that strengthening administrative rules signals the city’s commitment to workplace safety and professional conduct. At the same time, the guidelines emphasize procedural fairness, ensuring that both complainants and respondents are afforded their rights during investigations.

The updated measures come amid broader nationwide efforts to tighten enforcement of anti-sexual harassment policies in government offices and public institutions.

City Hall has yet to release detailed implementing guidelines, but officials said orientation sessions and internal dissemination will follow to ensure that all employees are informed of the revised procedures.

With the issuance of Executive Order No. 16, the General Santos City government positions itself to address harassment complaints more decisively — anchored on transparency, accountability and adherence to due process.