PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has issued a “Go Back to Basics” guidance to strengthen professionalism among policemen and restore public trust in the police force.
Marbil detailed his guidance last Monday during a command conference at the PNP national headquarters in Camp Crame.
“It’s time we return to the fundamentals of public service. If we want to move forward as a professional organization, we must first strengthen our basic systems and correct practices that hinder progress,” Marbil said.
Marbil tasked PNP Deputy Chief for Administration Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez to oversee the implementation of his guidance.
The PNP Public Information Office, in a statement, said the “Go Back to Basics” guidance of Marbil is a “set of internal reforms aimed at reinforcing discipline, enhancing professionalism, and addressing persistent gaps within the PNP.”
Under the guidance, Marbil said the recruitment of policemen must be transparent, merit-based and free from any form of irregularity or undue influence.
He condemned malpractices in the recruitment process, stressing that no amount of money, favoritism or political backing should be a factor in determining who gets to wear the police uniform.
Marbil said such acts undermine the integrity of the PNP and erode public trust, adding that people who are qualified, competent and dedicated to public service should be allowed to join the PNP. He said the credibility of the PNP starts with the quality of recruits.
Marbil also raised concern over financial arrangements, including with loan sharks, that place an undue burden on policemen undergoing training. He said such “exploitative schemes” should be eliminated as these put trainees to excessive financial or personal obligations, undermining their morale and welfare, and the overall integrity of the PNP.
He also said frontline units should be prioritized, adding they should be provided with adequate resources, equipment and support.
Marbil also cited the need to enhance operational capabilities to ensure an effective and timely response to public safety concerns.
He also called on police commanders to lead with integrity and actively guide their men in upholding discipline and professionalism.
Marbil also ordered the suspension of the junior and senior leadership courses and ordered that mandatory training programs for officers and non-officers be revisited to ensure they are aligned with the PNP’s strategic goals.
Marbil said all foreign training and educational trips should also be discontinued. He said funds for these training and trips should be reallocated to “more impactful programs.”
“Every training, deployment, and policy must reflect the needs of our people and the reality on the ground. We must ensure that what we do truly contributes to peace, order, and public trust,” said Marbil.
Marbil said his “Go Back to Basics” directive is not just a policy statement, noting that it is a firm commitment to restore the core values of public service.
