Number of police applicants increases by 4.52 percent

MANILA, Philippines — The recruitment program of the Philippine National Police has improved this year as the number of applicants for patrolmen and patrolwomen increased by 4.52 percent, the PNP said.

Based on PNP data, there are 52,373 people vying to fill the 8,589 available slots in the police force. In 2024, only 50,107 people filed their applications.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said the increase reflects growing public trust and the desire to serve in the country’s police organization.

“Only those who are truly worthy deserve to wear the badge and uphold the honor of our institution,” Nartatez said in a statement, adding that each applicant should embody integrity, courage and professionalism.

The attrition quota in the PNP is designed to address gaps caused by retirements, deaths, permanent disabilities and other forms of separation from the service.

The regular quota, meanwhile, aims to support the government’s goal of reaching the ideal police-to-population ratio of one police officer for every 500 people.