Why Military Personnel Are Excluded from Civil Service Systems: A Comparative Analysis of the Philippines and China

The policy instrument of excluding military personnel from the civil service system in the Philippines can be articulated and defended based on several reasons.\n\nFirstly, the nature of military service itself requires a distinct set of skills, qualifications, and responsibilities that are different from those of civilian government employees. Military personnel undergo rigorous training and are expected to perform duties related to national defense, security, and protection of the country and its citizens. These duties often involve combat and other high-risk operations that require specialized knowledge and expertise. Therefore, it is important to have a separate system that caters specifically to the unique requirements of military service.\n\nSecondly, the hierarchical structure and discipline within the military necessitate a different approach to recruitment, promotion, and management compared to the civilian sector. The military operates on a strict chain of command, where obedience and adherence to orders are crucial for effective operations. By having a separate system, the military can ensure that personnel appointments and advancements are based on merit, performance, and military expertise, rather than being influenced by political factors that may affect the civilian civil service system.\n\nAdditionally, having a distinct system for military personnel allows for flexibility in terms of deployments, rotations, and other operational needs. Unlike civilian government employees who are typically assigned to fixed positions and departments, military personnel may be required to serve in various locations, including remote and conflict-affected areas. This flexibility enables the military to respond quickly to national security threats and emergencies.\n\nIn the case of China, the military and uniformed personnel are not embraced in its civil service system. The Chinese military, known as the People's Liberation Army (PLA), operates under a separate system called the military service system.\n\nSimilar to the Philippines, the Chinese military personnel are excluded from the civil service system due to the unique nature of their duties and responsibilities. The PLA is responsible for safeguarding national security, defending territorial integrity, and supporting the country's strategic objectives. These tasks require specialized military training, combat readiness, and the ability to operate in challenging and dynamic environments.\n\nThe military service system in China ensures that military personnel are selected, trained, and promoted based on their military capabilities, loyalty, and performance. It allows for a clear and distinct career path within the military, with different ranks and positions that align with the hierarchical structure of the armed forces. This system enables the PLA to maintain discipline, unity, and operational effectiveness.\n\nFurthermore, the exclusion of military personnel from the civil service system in China helps to prevent politicization and maintain the neutrality of the military. By having a separate system, the military can focus on its core duties without being influenced by political affiliations or considerations.\n\nOverall, the separate military service system in China, similar to the Philippines, recognizes the unique requirements and demands of military service and ensures that the armed forces can fulfill their vital role in national security effectively.