In the structure of local government units (LGUs), certain positions are considered coterminous, meaning their tenure is directly linked to the appointing authority. These roles are not permanent and automatically end when the appointing official leaves office. Understanding coterminous positions in LGU administration is crucial for grasping how appointments, trust-based assignments, and political transitions affect the local public service system. These roles serve significant administrative and advisory functions and are often essential in executing the programs and policies of elected officials.
Understanding Coterminous Positions
Definition and Nature of Coterminous Appointments
Coterminous positions in an LGU are appointed roles that exist only for the duration of the term of the appointing official. Once that official’s term ends due to election, resignation, expiration, or any other reason the individuals in these positions are automatically separated from service unless reappointed by the incoming official. These roles are typically classified under the co-terminus with the appointing authority” category by the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Relevance to Local Governance
These positions allow elected local officials, such as governors, mayors, or other chief executives, to form teams composed of individuals they trust. It is a way to ensure that the official’s programs and goals are effectively supported by a staff that aligns with their vision and management style. Coterminous appointments help facilitate smoother governance transitions and political leadership shifts.
Common Coterminous Positions in Local Government Units
There are several types of coterminous positions typically found within municipal, city, or provincial governments. These roles range from administrative support to strategic advisory posts.
Executive Assistants
Executive Assistants play a key role in managing the daily activities and correspondence of the LGU’s chief executive. These positions are coterminous because they require a high degree of trust and confidentiality. They help coordinate schedules, prepare communications, and provide direct support in executive-level decisions.
Chiefs of Staff
Often found in the offices of governors or mayors, Chiefs of Staff oversee staff operations and ensure that the executive’s agenda is effectively implemented. This position is crucial in policy coordination and internal office management, and it is coterminous because the role serves at the discretion of the elected official.
Local Government Operations Officers (Temporary Assignments)
In some cases, an LGU may temporarily assign a Local Government Operations Officer to a coterminous position to work directly under the appointing official. Though the base position may be career, the specific assignment may become coterminous based on the nature of the appointment.
Private Secretaries
Private Secretaries are responsible for managing the confidential and personal documents of the local chief executive. Because the duties involve handling sensitive information and coordinating private schedules, the position is typically coterminous and ends when the principal leaves office.
Technical and Administrative Aides
These aides support the mayor or governor with technical research, clerical tasks, and fieldwork. Their job functions are tailored to the preferences of the elected official, making them coterminous in nature. They often serve during political campaigns and continue in office once their official is elected.
Information Officers
Information Officers are responsible for handling communication, public relations, and media engagements for the LGU executive. Their role in projecting the image and message of the administration makes them highly dependent on the trust of the appointing authority.
Project Development Officers
Project Development Officers may be appointed to handle special projects that align with the priorities of the current leadership. Their term ends when the appointing official’s term does, as their work is closely linked to the executive’s platform and funding initiatives.
Criteria and Considerations in Coterminous Appointments
Trust and Confidence
The most important factor in coterminous appointments is trust. These positions require individuals who can work closely with elected officials, handle sensitive matters, and maintain confidentiality. Political alignment and loyalty also often play a role.
Non-Career Service Category
Coterminous positions are typically categorized as non-career service by the Civil Service Commission. This means that incumbents are not entitled to permanent security of tenure, unlike regular government employees. However, they still must meet basic eligibility and qualification standards set by the agency or CSC.
No Automatic Reappointment
When the appointing official’s term ends, coterminous employees are not automatically reappointed by the next official. Even if the same person is reelected, they must issue a new appointment to renew the staff member’s position. Otherwise, the position is considered vacated.
Impacts on Local Governance and Personnel
Flexibility for Political Leadership
Coterminous appointments provide elected officials with the flexibility to form a working team that shares their goals and values. This setup can lead to more efficient administration and faster decision-making, particularly when implementing flagship projects or reforms.
Job Insecurity and Staff Turnover
One downside of coterminous positions is the lack of job security for those appointed. Since tenure depends entirely on the appointing official, a change in leadership may result in immediate staff turnover. This can disrupt continuity and institutional memory in LGUs.
Opportunities for Young Professionals
Despite the temporary nature, coterminous roles often attract young and dynamic professionals who are looking for experience in government service. These positions can serve as stepping stones for future careers in public administration or political consultancy.
Civil Service Regulations on Coterminous Positions
Classification and Guidelines
The Civil Service Commission defines and regulates coterminous appointments to prevent abuse and ensure fairness. While the CSC allows political discretion in these appointments, it still requires that minimum qualifications are met. Appointments must be documented and submitted to the appropriate oversight bodies.
Separation from Service
When the appointing authority’s term ends, the coterminous employee is considered separated from service without need for further notice or administrative proceedings. However, they may still claim terminal leave benefits and other entitlements, depending on their length of service.
Reappointment Rules
If a coterminous employee is reappointed under a new term or administration, the reappointment must be made official with new documentation. Continuous service is not assumed and benefits such as service credits or leave balances may be affected unless specified by law.
The list of coterminous positions in LGUs illustrates how political leadership shapes the staffing and direction of local government. These positions allow elected officials to appoint individuals who support their mandate and help realize development goals. However, the temporary nature of these roles also means that incumbents must be prepared for transitions. Whether as Executive Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, or Technical Aides, coterminous personnel play a vital role in the day-to-day functions of governance, shaping public policy through direct collaboration with local leaders. Their work may be behind the scenes, but it is crucial to the effective operation of every LGU across the Philippines.