IN a move to ensure an apolitical police force, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil has ordered the reassignment of over 1,300 police officers who have declared they have relatives running in the 2025 elections.

Shortly after the October 1-8 period for the filing of certificates of candidacy ended, Gen. Marbil directed all police units to remain vigilant, perform their duties efficiently and ensure public safety.

At the same time, he reminded every officer that political neutrality is a core responsibility.

The PNP chief emphasized the police force’s responsibility to uphold law and order without any bias or political partisan bias, reiterating that any officer found engaging in partisan activities or compromising the integrity of the police force will be dealt with accordingly.

“The PNP is tasked with protecting the democratic process, not participating in it. We will not tolerate any officer who compromises our commitment to neutrality and fairness,” he warned.

The PNP chief also reminded police officers that their conduct reflects the PNP’s dedication to earning public trust, noting that the nation is closely observing how the PNP ensures public safety during this significant political exercise.

“It is our duty to ensure that the election process remains peaceful, orderly and secure. Every police officer must remember their oath to serve the people, not politicians,” he pointed out.

Gen. Marbil also encouraged the public to cooperate with the PNP during the election period and to report any irregularities involving law enforcement personnel.

PNP spokesperson Brigadier Gen. Jean S. Fajardo said that Camp Crame has reassigned as of last week 1,308 out of 1,586 policemen who have declared they have relatives running in the midterm polls.

The official cited a report from the PNP Directorate for Personnel and Records Management that a total of 1,586 police officers and men have declared they have relatives up to the 4th degree of consanguinity or affinity who have filed their COCs for the May 12 elections.

Gen. Marbil maintained that it was “only right to remove or reassign police officers from areas where their relatives will run for the upcoming polls.”

The official said the move is part of the PNP leadership’s effort to shield police officers from partisan politics. She also described the reassignment as a normal procedure in the PNP.

According to her, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-Cordillera has the highest number of reassigned police officers with 180, followed by the PRO-9 with 144; PRO Bangsamoro Autonomous Region with 122; and PRO-6 with 118.

Brig. Gen. Fajardo said that all police escorts assigned to politicians and private individuals will also be recalled during the election period.

Fajardo said that police officers and men are obligated to declare their relatives seeking elective posts in 2025.

In particular, policemen assigned in areas where their relatives are running for local positions need to be transferred to other places to prevent possible politicking.

“Our goal is to deliver a safe and credible election. With the cooperation of the public and the dedication of our police force, we will succeed in ensuring that the 2025 elections are fair and peaceful,” said Gen. Marbil.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon