Warning aired on use of AFP, PNP uniforms

CEBU, Philippines - The Central Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said civilians wearing military and police uniforms could be arrested and sent to jail.

Col. Jerry Lim, commander of 3rd Civil Relations Group, said any person caught wearing military and police uniforms will be fined from P100 to P2,000 or receive an imprisonment of one month to two years.

Republic Act 493 prohibits civilians from wearing military and police uniforms.

“The unauthorized act also demeans the privilege, honor and integrity attached to wearing of uniform by authorized personnel,” Lim said.

He explained that wearing of military or police uniforms may even pose danger to uniformed operatives in the conduct of their duty.

“On the other hand, any person who shall publicly and improperly make use of any insignia, uniform, dress pertaining to uniformed personnel of the AFP or PNP of which he is not a member may be punished with the penalty of imprisonment of one month and one day to six months under article 179 of the Revised Penal Code,” Lim added. – Niña G. Sumacot /LPM (THE FREEMAN)