Marbil vows legal aid for cops facing court cases

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police eyes outsourcing a law firm to help PNP personnel facing court cases related to their duties, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil said yesterday.

Marbil underscored the importance of providing legal assistance to police officers.

He advocated for assistance from external sources such as the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund Association Inc. and the Public Safety Savings and Loan Association Inc.

“I am pushing for improved legal aid to address the challenges faced by our police officers,” Marbil said at a press briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

He emphasized the need to augment the legal service capabilities of the PNP amid the limited number of lawyers available to support the national police’s workforce.

“In the performance of their duties, police officers often face countercharges that can burden them financially,” Marbil said.

The PNP chief also emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of police officers to ensure their well-being and effectiveness in serving the public.

PNP’s publicist Col. Jean Fajardo said they are coordinating with different organizations to raise funding and hire additional legal professionals to bolster support for police officers.

She underscored the financial strain faced by police officers involved in legal proceedings.

“The acceptance fee alone for legal representation can be substantial, not to mention the legal costs and travel expenses,” Fajardo said.