PEF Guidelines for Political Conduct
- Purpose
These guidelines provide a framework for the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) to uphold
political neutrality during elections. They ensure all stakeholders understand their roles in
maintaining PEF’s commitment to being non-political and non-partisan while encouraging
informed civic engagement. - Scope
These guidelines apply to all PEF staff, management, and Board members, covering activities
related to political elections, both personal and organizational in nature. While PEF may engage in
non-partisan efforts like voter education, these initiatives are designed to stay neutral. Other
political activities, such as advocacy or lobbying, are outside the scope of this guideline and may
require policies to support PEF’s mission and non-partisan stance. - Policy Statement
Since its founding in 2001, PEF has been committed to non-partisanship. While PEF collaborates
with national and local government institutions on development initiatives, it avoids partisan
activities such as endorsing candidates, soliciting votes, or mobilizing partners and associated
organizations for political purposes. Board members, management, and staff are directed to
engage in the democratic process in a personal capacity only. - Political Neutrality in Personal Conduct
To protect PEF’s reputation, all internal stakeholders— including Board members and staff—are
expected to:
- Avoid using their PEF affiliation in political activities or statements.
- Exercise caution on social media, ensuring that personal political views are clearly stated as
their own and do not represent PEF’s stance.
Scenario: Participation of PEF Board and Staff in Political Rallies/Events
The PEF Board and staff may attend pre-election and post-election rallies or events, provided they
do so in a personal capacity. In these instances, they must refrain from wearing shirts or apparel
that display the PEF logo. However, they may wear shirts that support responsible electoral
participation, such as those featuring messages like “Vote Wisely” or other similar themes.
- Commitment to a Positive Image
All PEF members should promote a positive image of the Foundation, aligned with its mission to
improve the lives of marginalized Filipinos. - Use of Organizational Resources
o PEF resources (e.g., funds, time, materials) must not be used for political campaigns or
candidate promotion.
o PEF’s name or logo must not appear in any materials or media associated with political
parties or candidates. This provision should also be included in partnership agreements
to ensure compliance by all parties.
o Employees must not use PEF email, official social media channels such as Facebook and
Instagram, and other communication channels to endorse or discredit political parties or
candidates, ensuring the Foundation’s impartiality.
o PEF may support non-partisan voter education initiatives as long as they do not endorse
any political party or candidate. - Communication Guidelines
o Official statements: The Communications team will prepare all official statements on
elections, vetted by the Executive Director to ensure alignment with PEF values.
o Media interviews: Requests for media interviews should go to the Executive Director or
Board Chair. All media interactions must reflect PEF’s non-partisan, non-political stance.
o Personal communications: Staff should clarify that personal opinions do not reflect PEF’s
views. - Training and Awareness
PEF may offer training on responsible, non-partisan political advocacy to help staff understand
their roles and foster informed civic engagement. - Compliance and Accountability
o Reporting violations: Employees are encouraged to report violations of these guidelines
to their supervisor or HR.
o Consequences: Violations may lead to disciplinary actions, such as warnings or
reprimands, as determined by management. - Policy Maintenance
The policy will be reviewed as needed to ensure its relevance and any revisions will require
endorsement by the Executive Committee and approval by the PEF Board.
o Contact: Inquiries about this policy can be directed to the Executive Office or
Communications team.
o Related Policy: PEF’s Code of Conduct emphasizes integrity, respect, and accountability.
Adhering to the Code is vital for maintaining PEF’s non-partisanship and positive
reputation.