PNP vows due process for erring cops

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police yesterday said it is reinforcing internal procedures to ensure that investigations of erring PNP personnel strictly observe constitutional rights and established legal processes.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the policy aims to strengthen discipline within the police organization while preventing premature judgment and external pressure from influencing ongoing cases.

Nartatez said due process and transparency must work together in pursuing accountability within the police service.

“Transparency and due process are not mutually exclusive. They are the dual pillars of true administrative justice,” he said.

He added that police personnel are entitled to fair and impartial proceedings based on evidence such as closed-circuit television footage and witness accounts, rather than public opinion.

Nartatez also said accountability should not come at the expense of institutional procedures, as the organization continues its internal cleansing program.

He directed PNP internal affairs units to expedite administrative investigations while ensuring that safeguards are observed in handling complaints against police personnel.

“To our citizens, I assure you that the PNP does not tolerate abuse, and we are aggressively pursuing our internal cleansing program with strict accountability,” he said.

Nartatez also assured police personnel that the PNP leadership remains supportive amid increased public scrutiny, particularly on social media.