PNP supports President Marcos’ veto of Police Reform Bill

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police yesterday expressed support for President Marcos’ decision to veto the PNP reform bill, saying it is the prerogative of the Chief Executive.

In an interview over the weekend with dzBB, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said that they understand the President’s concerns and will work closely with Congress to develop a better version of the legislation.

“The veto by the President is within his prerogative, and this is not the first time a president has exercised this power. We support the President’s decision and understand his concerns, particularly regarding specific provisions,” Fajardo said.

One of the contentious issues in the bill was the proposed salary adjustment for newly appointed police officers, which aimed to raise the entry-level pay to Salary Grade 21.

Fajardo explained that the integration of the Philippine National Police Academy under the PNP and the changes in appointment and rank categories contributed to the complications.

She said that the PNP acknowledges the President’s observations and aims to align the bill’s details with existing civil service policies.

Fajardo also addressed provisions in the bill that aimed to institutionalize new positions within the PNP, similar to the unified command structure of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The goal, Fajardo said, was to harmonize police operations across regions.

The PNP also agrees with the President’s emphasis on rightsizing and streamlining the organization to ensure more officers are deployed on the ground for patrol duties.

Despite the veto, the Fajardo gave assurance that the morale of the PNP will not be affected.

“We remain committed to our duties. This is an opportunity for the PNP to take a second look at the proposed reform bill. We will collaborate with Congress to address the contentious provisions and push for a new version of the bill,” she said.

Fajardo said that the PNP is open to dialogue with lawmakers to advance the reform bill and ensure that the necessary provisions are improved.