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What counts as bribery?

Bribery is offering, giving, asking for or accepting something of value to influence how a public official does their job.

This is general information, not legal advice. Laws and procedures change. For advice about your situation, talk to a lawyer or the Public Attorney's Office.

In plain terms

If a government employee asks for — or accepts — money, a gift or a favour in exchange for doing (or not doing, or speeding up) something that is part of their job, that is likely bribery. It doesn't matter whether the amount is small or whether it's called a “tip”, “merienda”, “pampadulas” or “processing fee”.

The main laws

  • Revised Penal Code, Articles 210–212 — direct bribery, indirect bribery, and corruption of public officials (the person who gives the bribe).
  • Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) — including requesting or receiving gifts in connection with a government transaction.
  • Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (RA 6713) — rules on gifts and conflicts of interest.
  • Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act (RA 11032) — against fixers, red tape and delays.

Both sides can be liable

Under Philippine law, the person who gives a bribe can also commit an offence. Many people pay because they feel they have no choice. If you paid, you can still report — consider reading how to report safely and talking to a lawyer.