PNP dismisses over 900 cops in 2024

MANILA, Philippines — More than 900 police officers were dismissed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) due to various offenses in 2024. 

In a statement on Sunday, January 26, the PNP reported that its data for 2024 showed 5,457 personnel faced administrative charges across 3,751 cases.

Of those charged, 2,765 received penalties, while 2,691 were exonerated. 

Among the penalized officers, a significant number of high-ranking officials faced consequences: 1,112 were suspended, including a colonel, 19 lieutenant colonels, 29 majors, 30 captains and 22 lieutenants.

The 903 dismissals include five lieutenant colonels, six majors, 12 captains and five lieutenants.

Other penalties imposed affected 108 officers with demotion, 103 with salary forfeiture, 423 with reprimand, 82 with restriction and 34 with withholding of privileges.

Aside from these, PNP Chief Rommel Marbil also placed under restrictive custody 20 police officers who were charged over the multi-billion drug bust in Manila in 2022.

“These figures demonstrate the unstinting commitment of the PNP leadership to cleanse its ranks of bad eggs while strictly adhering to due process. Our efforts reflect the PNP’s resolve to ensure accountability and maintain the trust of the Filipino people," Marbil said in a statement.

To address backlogs and improve efficiency in handling disciplinary cases, the PNP said that it implemented the Zero-Backlog Program.

“The PNP remains steadfast in its commitment to internal cleansing and organizational excellence. These efforts not only strengthen our institution but also reaffirm our dedication to serving and protecting the Filipino people with honor and integrity,” Marbil said. 

Additionally, 1,663 police personnel participated in seminars on disciplinary policies, further equipping them with the skills to handle administrative cases "with efficiency and procedural precision."