A satisfaction survey will be in place to ensure compliance amongst staff
Employees of a municipality in the Philippines have been ordered to smile while at work or risk facing disciplinary action. Mulanay Mayor Aristotle Aguirre signed Executive Order No. 002, Series of 2022, adopting a "SMILE Policy" for employees across all departments, offices, units, and sections of the local government unit.
According to the EO, the policy must be adopted by workers "to give sincerity by showing a feeling of calmness and friendly atmosphere" while they're serving the people.
"I ordered the adoption of SMILE Policy particularly in frontline services to our constituents," said Aguirre in a statement. "Wearing a smile as we serve the people lightens the burden of our countrymen."
The local government's Human Resource Management Office was tasked with providing specific administration and supervisory functions, which will be for "strict compliance" across all services as soon as it's ready, read the order. To monitor compliance, the HRMO will be putting out a Client Satisfaction Survey, with the policy to be included as part of the performance targets in the Office Performance Commitment Review.
Employees who violate the order may be subject to "administrative liabilities with reference to existing laws, policies, guidelines, rules, and regulations," according to the order.
The SMILE Policy was one of Aguirre's election promises in the 2022 polls. According to the mayor, he wants all his constituents to feel that they are being served by their public servants. The policy was made in line with the country's Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
Prior to this, a similar instruction went out in Silang, Cavite, after Mayor Kevin Anarna prohibited the municipal hall employees from frowning.
