A TOTAL of 4,082 policemen have been slapped with various penalties, including dismissal from the service, since January last year due to various offenses, the PNP reported yesterday.
“This shows that our internal disciplinary mechanism is working,” PNP spokeswoman and concurrent PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Jean Fajardo said.
Fajardo said the erring cops were punished after being found liable for administrative charges arising from grave and minor offenses.
She said the policemen’s offenses included kidnapping, homicide, robbery-extortion, use of illegal drugs, failure to appear in court, and absence without official leave.
She said 935 of these policemen were dismissed from the service, 242 were demoted, 1,850 were suspended, 159 forfeited their salary, 680 were reprimanded, 110 were restricted, and 106 had their privileges withheld.
“Whether it’s simple misdemeanor or grave offenses… we are not tolerating these. We pursue charges against them and those found guilty of grave offenses are dismissed from the service,” said Fajardo.
“Based on our data, more than 900 (policemen) were dismissed from last year up to August 30 this year,” added Fajardo.
Fajardo said there are more policemen who have pending administrative charges but could not immediately give figures.
“As of August 30, that’s the number of resolved administrative cases with the penalty imposed,” said Fajardo, referring to the 4,082 policemen who were punished.
Fajardo said some policemen, especially those who committed grave crimes, were also criminally charged in court.
In a statement, Fajardo said the punishment of the 4,082 policemen “underscores the PNP’s unwavering vow to ensure that its personnel adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
“It leaves a powerful note that those who engage in unlawful activities and misdemeanors will face the appropriate consequences, including dismissal from the service when necessary,” said Fajardo.
Fajardo said the PNP remains steadfast in “maintaining the trust and confidence of the Filipino people.
“As it continues its mission to serve and protect, the PNP aims to build a force that truly exemplifies integrity, honor, and dedication,” said Fajardo.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said the PNP has been strengthening its internal disciplinary mechanisms and intensifying implementation of the PNP’s doctrine on command responsibility and police operational procedures.
“We are bringing across our message to the people that the PNP leadership strongly condemns any wrongdoing of its few misguided members,” said Acorda.
