Employment Dilemma

Good day. I would need some advise regarding my situation. I am a private school teacher who is now considered a regular employee. I believe that service to my fellowmen should not just be confined in the four corners of the classroom. I have been an active member and officer in our subdivision and at the same time am also holding an important position in my current employment. Despite the demands both from work and my other social commitments, I have never neglected my duties as a teacher. Just recently after much contemplation, I have decided to run for local government position in our barangay as counselor (have not filed for candidacy yet). This has reached my Principal and have verbalized that I should choose between my work and my aim to run for public service. Can the school just terminate me for merely filing candidacy? Would running for public office be considered moon lighting? Thanks.

are you a college or grade/high school teacher?

there is a Manual for Regulations for Private Schools which is issued by Dep Ed. Unfortunately, there is no online copy that I can find because it's as thick as a book. you should look it up and see what it says about moon lighting.

you should also look at your employment contract on what it says.

to my mind, the mere filing for a candidacy is not sufficient reason for termination. good luck.

Dear Atty.,

I am a High School teacher. I have been trying to look for a copy of that Manual but as you said there is no available copy online. As regards my contract, there is nothing specific on this in my contract but there is a stipulation that says, the contract may be terminated by either parties. Going back to my original question, would being a public servant be considered holding another job? Thanks again.

you should go to dep ed to get a copy. that's where my old firm got a copy.

i do not believe a bgy councilor position should be considered as interfering with your teaching duties. but i have to confess this is not my area of expertise.