PNP chief Marbil warns cops vs political partisanship

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Rommel Marbil warned active cops Tuesday from engaging in partisan politics, citing harsh sanctions to violators.

In a statement, Marbil said sanctions, which include dismissal from service, will be imposed on erring police personnel.

"Any active PNP member proven to be involved in partisan political activities will face sanctions, including possible dismissal, in accordance with existing policies and regulations,” he said.

Marbil clarified the PNP does not tolerate political partisanship among its active personnel following the statement of support of PNP Academy (PNPA) Class 1991 for the Vice President who is facing impeachment before Congress.

“The PNP leadership does not and will never condone political partisanship within its ranks. Our officers have sworn to serve the public, not political interests. Any claim to the contrary is far from the truth,” the PNP chief said.

PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo on Monday noted that three active police personnel from the same PNP class did not sign the statement of support for Duterte.

Fajardo said the alumni of PNPA Class 1991 who have retired from the service have the right to express their opinion as they are no longer part of the police ranks.

“My remarks specifically referred to the retired alumni of the class, who, as private citizens, are no longer within the PNP chain of command and are free to express their personal views,” Fajardo said in a separate statement on Tuesday.

“However, to be clear, active members of PNPA Class 1991— like all serving officers and personnel of the PNP— remain apolitical, non-partisan, and professional in the fulfillment of their duties,” she added.

Marbil said the PNP organization is professional and neutral amid “politically charged times.”

“Our duty is to the Filipino people. We are not influenced by political affiliations, and we remain steadfast in ensuring peace, order, and security for all. The public can trust that the PNP will uphold its core values of integrity, service, and fairness at all times,” Marbil said.

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives impeached Duterte, with 215 lawmakers endorsing the fourth impeachment complaint against the Vice President.

An additional 25 lawmakers signed the complaint, according to House Secretary General Reginald Velasco.

Duterte has stated she is preparing for the trial but has no plans to resign or appear during the proceedings.
—RF, GMA Integrated News