PNP: 2,181 cops axed under Duterte

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 2,181 police officers have been fired since President Duterte assumed office in July 2016, a Philippine National Police (PNP) official said yesterday.

Since 2016 until the first semester of 2018, 1,828 PNP personnel were dismissed from the service for serious infractions and another 353 were dismissed after failing drug tests or being found to be involved in the illegal drug trade, according to PNP spokesman Senior Superintendent Benigno Durana.

Durana said the dismissed police personnel were among 6,401 police officers meted administrative penalties for offenses ranging from involvement in criminal activities and cases, grave misconduct, serious neglect of duty, serious irregularity, malversation, dishonesty, and graft and corruption. 

He added that 3,589 police personnel were suspended, 362 demoted, 403 reprimanded, 147 penalized with salary forfeiture, 43 withheld privileges and 29 restricted to quarters. 

Aside from those penalized for administrative offenses, 498 other police officers were investigated for drug-related cases – including 266 who tested positive for drug use and 232 for involvement in drug activity. 

Durana said some police officers get involved in illegal activities to maintain a lavish lifestyle.

“Our salary is enough to sustain only one kitchen. If you have two to three wives or girlfriends, you will be in debt,” he said, adding that “being a good dad and a good husband means having only one wife, a father to kids with the same woman.”

He said the PNP must also educate police officers in financial literacy to make the most of their salary.