SOME 5,000 police officers have been dismissed from service amid the intensified internal cleansing of the Philippine National Police (PNP) under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, PNP Chief Dionardo Carlos said on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.
Carlos said from July 2016 to December 2021, the PNP-Internal Affairs Service (IAS) investigated a total of 37,124 administrative charges filed against cops.
He said majority of the cases have been resolved, with 35,297 cases tagged as closed.
More than 20,000 police personnel have been meted with penalties, including demotion, suspension and dismissal from the service.
“It is with deep sadness to know that the PNP is stained with erring cops. These undesirable members of the organization must face the consequences of their actions. But their demeanor must not be construed as a system bloodline. We give appreciation to our principle-minded comrades who continue to advocate for righteousness,” Carlos said.
“I ask each PNP personnel to keep your morale high. This is an opportunity to challenge yourselves of proving your worth as efficient and credible law enforcers. Remember what you’re here for. Go back to your core. You are not only trained with the appropriate skills, but you are embedded with the values that keep you grounded and upright,” he added.
Carlos said the PNP’s internal cleansing remains in high gear in order to continue regaining the trust of the public.
He said every complaint concerning our members, regardless of its severity, is given enough attention in the quest for justice.
“Public service means embracing scrutiny; an integral part of our mission to grow together as a mature organization,” said Carlos.
“The PNP does not hide in the shadow of excuses that there is no perfect organization, but it submits itself to intensifying its policies in a dynamic working environment,” he added. (SunStar Philippines)