By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday said it plans to review the existing guidelines governing protective assignments amid concerns that some personnel may be tasked with functions beyond their official responsibilities.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the review aims to reinforce the professional role of police officers assigned to provide protection to politicians, businessmen, and other high-profile individuals.
“Our officers are trained protectors of human life and public safety, not personal errand boys or logistics aides for private errands. I remind all personnel that your loyalty belongs to the Constitution, the people, and the PNP. You must never allow your uniform to be degraded by tasks outside your legal mandate,” Nartatez said in a statement.
Part of the review process is the regular monitoring of the personnel deployed as security details in order to ensure that they continue to observe the rules and regulations in providing security, he said.
The statement was made after concerns were raised on the propriety of police officers being tasked to do things unrelated to their mandate of securing the personalities they were assigned to protect.
This was further highlighted by the recent court testimonies discussing “special tasking” involving a controversial personality.
Nartatez emphasized that the case highlights the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between official police functions and activities totally unrelated to security work.
“I direct all police security details to remain within the bounds of their official duties, exercise sound judgment, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity,” said Nartatez.
Protecting barangay workers
Meanwhile, Nartatez directed local police chiefs to strengthen coordination with barangay officials to identify security threats and address risks arising from their duties.
The PNP chief emphasized that barangay officials are key partners in community policing and crime prevention, thus, their role in maintaining peace and order also calls for stronger police support to protect their safety.
This is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen public safety and ensure that local law enforcement remains responsive to the security needs of communities and their officials.
“Protecting those who help keep our communities safe is part of our duty to protect the public. Through stronger police coordination and timely action, we can identify threats early and ensure that our barangay officials can perform their duties without fear,” Nartatez said.
The instruction came amid reports of violence directed against barangay officials, including a recent incident in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.
“An attack on a barangay official is an attack on the safety of the community they serve. We will pursue those responsible and strengthen our coordination with local officials to address threats before they turn into violence. Public service must never come at the cost of one’s life,” Nartatez said. (PNA)
