Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. Photo from Office of the Chief PNP/Facebook
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Tuesday it was reviewing and strengthening policies at its academy following reports of an alleged hazing incident involving freshman cadets.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said reforms were being prepared to prevent similar cases and reinforce discipline within training institutions.
He said new long-term safeguards were being drafted and would undergo consultation with academic experts and other stakeholders before implementation.
Among the measures being considered are improved reporting systems for abuse, more frequent inspections, and enhanced leadership training for cadets.
The move came after an alleged incident on April 3, where at least 22 first-year cadets were reportedly subjected to abuse involving chemical substances.
Authorities later arrested three second-year cadets in connection with the case, with charges filed under the Anti-Hazing Act.
Investigators were also looking into the possible involvement of additional cadets who allegedly helped procure the materials used in the incident.
Nartatez said he has not ordered the relief of Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) officials, noting that they remain in their posts pending formal directives from his office.