By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
Over 6,200 police officers have been charged for various offenses ranging from conduct unbecoming of a law enforcer to grave misconduct as a result of an intensified internal cleansing program of the Philippine National Police (PNP) under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
PNP Internal Affairs Service (IAS) Inspector General Atty. Brigido Dulay on Wednesday said among the 6,256 police officers facing administrative charges since July 2022, 572 were already dismissed from the service, 260 were demoted, and 1,418 were suspended.
He said the benefits of the dismissed officers would be forfeited, and they would be perpetually disqualified to hold any other government posts.
Dulay said a colonel is the highest-ranking officer penalized under the ongoing internal cleansing program.
He advised all police officers to follow the rule of law and police operational procedures to spare themselves from trouble.
“We have rules that must be followed, this has long been the policy of the PNP. They just have to follow these rules because it is really hard to be charged with administrative charges,” Dulay said in a press conference.
“This is part of the reform process. The cleansing process is continuing and ongoing. This serves as a message that the IAS will run after those who would violate the law,” he added.
Dulay also urged the public to be vigilant and immediately report to IAS any illegal or suspicious activities involving purported police officers so that they may be prosecuted for the appropriate criminal charges.
“You can email us at [email protected] or call us at 0926-031-0279 for mobile and (02) 8723-0401 local 6665 for landline, and you may also visit any of our national, regional, district, provincial, and city offices in order to verify the status or report these unscrupulous individuals,” Dulay said.
Intensified campaign against criminals
Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has directed all police units to strengthen their campaign against high-value criminals and wanted individuals to ensure a safer environment for all citizens.
“Our paramount objective is the safety and security of every Filipino family and community. By apprehending these criminals, we are making significant strides in ensuring that our citizens can live without fear and in peace,” Marbil said in a separate statement.
Data from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) showed that from January 1 to July 15, the police operatives have arrested 6,250 wanted individuals.
Marbil said under PNP’s e-warrant system, 73,337 warrants of arrest have been uploaded, with the majority successfully served.
He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of police officers during operations, recognizing the sacrifices of 16 police officers who lost their lives and 40 others who were injured this year in various police actions.
“We honor the bravery and commitment of our men and women in uniform who risk their lives daily. Their dedication to their sworn duty to serve and protect is truly admirable,” he said.
