The Philippine National Police (PNP) has enforced stringently its policy against tattoos among members of the organization. 

In a memorandum circular issued by the PNP National Headquarters, members of the organization are prohibited strictly from being inked or tattooed in parts where it cannot be covered by their garments or uniforms.

For tattoos that can be covered, the member must sign an undertaking on the details of the tattoos and is barred from getting a new one.  

As of posting time, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 has conducted an inventory on the number of members who have tattoos and their identities.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Ace Pelare, PRO 7 spokesperson, pointed out that the PNP respects tattooing as an art form and the fondness of certain persons about tattooing as a form of self-expression, but the PNP has rules and regulations to be respected and adhered to as well. 

In a press conference on April 23, 2024, it was further learned that the directive includes efforts to erase visible tattoos or those that cannot be covered fully by clothes or garments.

The stringent policy is expected to affect today’s crop of aspiring policemen as they will not be allowed to join the organization if they have tattoos.

As for the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO), there are a few members who have already had tattoos.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Mercy Villaro, MCPO information officer, said they are waiting for further directions on requiring inked members to seek removal or erasure of visible tattoos.