2,765 offending cops penalized in 2024

Metro Manila, Philippines - A total of 2,765 police personnel charged with administrative cases were penalized last year, with some 900 dismissed, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Sunday, Jan. 26.

Based on the PNP figures, about 5,000 police officers faced administrative charges last year, 2,691 of whom have been absolved from their cases. Those who faced penalties include a colonel, lieutenant colonels, and majors.

Of the penalized, 1,112 were suspended and 903 discharged from their posts.

“These figures demonstrate the unstinting commitment of the PNP leadership to cleanse its ranks of bad eggs while strictly adhering to due process. Our efforts reflect the PNP’s resolve to ensure accountability and maintain the trust of the Filipino people," the police force’s chief Gen. Rommel Marbil said in a statement.

“The PNP remains steadfast in its commitment to internal cleansing and organizational excellence. These efforts not only strengthen our institution but also reaffirm our dedication to serving and protecting the Filipino people with honor and integrity,” he said.

This year, 20 active cops have been placed under restrictive custody in relation to their supposed involvement in the P6.7-billion drug bust in 2022.

An Internal Disciplinary Mechanism, under the police’s reform agenda, adopts a three-point approach: preventive, punitive, and restorative.