In a bold move to uphold integrity and discipline, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has dismissed 753 personnel from service for committing serious offenses between April 1, 2024, and February 12, 2025. This sweeping action underscores the PNP’s commitment to rooting out misconduct within its ranks.
According to an official statement released on Wednesday, the offenses leading to these dismissals range from absences without official leave (AWOL) to grave crimes such as robbery, extortion, and even carnapping. Notably, 493 personnel were dismissed for AWOL, making it the most common violation. Additionally, 38 officers faced expulsion for illegal drug use, while 18 were implicated in robbery or extortion, and 15 were found guilty of carnapping.
The crackdown didn’t stop there. Other dismissed personnel were involved in even more serious crimes, including graft, malversation, homicide, murder, and rape, according to the PNP.
A Broader Purge
The recent wave of dismissals is part of a broader effort to clean up the police force. Since January 1, 2022, a total of 2,598 PNP personnel have been removed from service for various violations. This sustained internal cleansing campaign reflects growing public pressure for police accountability and transparency.
Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, in his official statement, reinforced the PNP’s zero-tolerance stance against wrongdoing. “Our mission is to serve and protect the public, not to instill fear or abuse power. Any police officer found guilty of misconduct or illegal activities has no place in the PNP,” he declared.
Restoring Public Trust
The mass dismissals highlight the PNP’s resolve to restore public trust in law enforcement. Over the years, the Philippine National Police has faced mounting criticism over allegations of abuse and corruption. This recent purge signals a clear message: officers who engage in illegal activities will face the full consequences of their actions.
The PNP’s internal disciplinary mechanisms remain under intense scrutiny as the agency continues to confront issues of integrity. With hundreds of officers already dismissed and more investigations ongoing, the coming months will likely reveal whether these efforts will lead to a lasting cultural change within the force.
As the PNP intensifies its drive to uphold the highest standards of public service, all eyes remain on how far-reaching and effective these reforms will be in shaping a more trustworthy and accountable police institution.
