THE Philippine National Police (PNP) headed by General Rommel Francisco Marbil has underscored its commitment to comply with the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) Memorandum Circular No. 3-2025 that prohibits government employees, including policemen, from engaging in partisan political activities in relation to the May 12 elections.

This includes refraining from liking, sharing, or commenting on political posts on social media—actions that could be seen as supporting or opposing a candidate or political party.

These activities are now prohibited by law for all government workers in order to preserve the neutrality and integrity of public service during the election season.

Aligned with the guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has emphasized the importance of a neutral government, the PNP assured the public that it will adhere strictly to these rules.

The President has made it clear that public servants must be impartial, especially during elections, to maintain the public’s trust and ensure free and fair elections.

Gen. Marbil said he has ordered all officers and men of the 232,000-strong police force to fully comply with the CSC memorandum.

He added that the PNP is committed to reaching this directive across all its units nationwide.

Violations will not be tolerated, and penalties, including suspension or dismissal from service, will be enforced as per CSC guidelines, he also said.

“As we approach the elections, the PNP will stay focused on its primary mission: to ensure peace and order, protect the public and uphold the law—without any political interference.

The PNP stands firm in its dedication to a safe, fair and transparent election process,” the PNP chief said.

Gen. Marbil said that Comelec-supervised PNP checkpoints nationwide continue to be operational, along with the strict enforcement of the nationwide gun ban to curb potential election-related violence.

The official has assured the public of the PNP’s commitment to securing the entire campaign period until its conclusion on May 10.

“The PNP is fully prepared to safeguard the democratic process and ensure a peaceful campaign period.

We will not tolerate any election-related violence or illegal activities that threaten the integrity of the elections.

Our security forces are ready to respond to any untoward incidents,” he said.

The PNP chief also reminded all candidates, political parties, and the general public that vote-buying and vote-selling are serious offenses under Batas Pambansa Blg. 881 or the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines.

As the election season continues, the PNP urges the public to remain vigilant, report any election-related violations and cooperate with authorities to uphold a clean, honest and peaceful electoral process, said PNP Public Information Office chief, Colonel Randulf T. Tuaño.

Early this month, Gen. Marbil and top Comelec and Armed Forces of the Philippines officials signed a memorandum of agreement to further enhance their cooperation to ensure an orderly and peaceful May 12 polls.

The event also featured the turnover of the budget allocation for the PNP’s election-related security operations.

Present during the MOA signing were General Marbil, PNP Deputy Chief for Administration, Lieutenant Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr, AFP Vice Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida and Comelec chairman George Erwin Garcia.

The collaborative effort between these key institutions aims to strengthen security measures and ensure smooth operations during the election period.

Following the signing, Garcia turned over the cheques for the allocated budget to the PNP, which will be used for election-related security operations.

The funding is critical for providing logistical support, personnel deployment, communication systems and overall operational readiness during the election period.

In his remarks during the MOA signing, Gen. Marbil emphasized the commitment of the police force to ensure the safety of voters.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon