PNP to get 20 more ‘generals’

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will soon have 20 more chief superintendents or one-star generals in its roster.

In Resolution No. 2003-013, the National Police Commission (Napolcom) has allowed the PNP to have 84 star ranks from the 64 previously prescribed.

However, the number of star ranks other than chief superintendents would remain the same.

Under the law, the PNP should have 11 directors (two-star), three deputy director generals (three-star) and one director general (four-star).

The PNP chief holds the rank of director general.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jose Lina Jr., who is also Napolcom chairman, said the increase in the number or chief superintendents is based on the PNP’s strength.

The resolution conforms to the ideal police-to-population ratio of 1:500 to ensure better police visibility and a more effective response to criminals, he added.

Lina said the Napolcom has directed the PNP Senior Officers Placement and Promotion Board to continuously monitor and review all star-rank positions to ensure no recommendation would be made unless a vacancy exists.

The increase in the number of chief superintendents is equivalent to three quarters of one percent of last year’s authorized police strength of 114,743, he added. – Marvin Sy