Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje tightened the ban on a number of social networking websites (SNWs) including Facebook and YouTube by ordering a software audit of all desktop and laptop computers connected to the internet server at the DENR Central Office in Quezon City.
Paje’s move came after reports reached his office that many of the DENR workers have been able to access the previously banned websites, using international proxy servers to bypass firewalls installed by the DENR’s Management Information Systems Division (MISD).
Last April, Paje issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 2011-04 prohibiting the use of Facebook, Twitter, Friendster, Multiply, Meebo, Bebo and other social networking websites, including online and offline games during office hours. The prohibition, according to him, is primarily to “increase productivity in the workplace.”
Noting, however, that there are employees using proxy software in the DENR Network to circumvent MC 2011-0I, Paje warned the employees anew. “
Anyone, regardless of employment status, caught using proxy software to access banned sites shall be subjected to Civil Service rules and regulations,” he said.
By virtue of Memorandum Circular No. 2011-06, Paje directed the MISD not only to conduct a software audit of all DENR computers but also remove all proxy software.
He likewise tasked Assistant Secretary for Internal Audit and Anti-Corruption Daniel Nicer to take action against employees caught violating his order.
Under Section C, Rule IV of Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 19, s. 1999, Resolution No. 991936 or the Revised Uniform Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service, a government employee committing an administrative offense will face a reprimand or warning for the first offense, suspension for the second and dismissal for the third offense. PAO, DENR
