Poor People Prevent PNP From Enforcing Laws

The broken windows theory of policing has its fair shares of detractors and advocates. The theory goes:

visible signs of crime, antisocial behavior and civil disorder create an urban environment that encourages further crime and disorder, including serious crimes. The theory suggests that policing methods that target minor crimes, such as vandalism, loitering, public drinking and fare evasion, help to create an atmosphere of order and lawfulness.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broken_windows_theory

Recently the Philippine National Police tried out this theory with mixed results. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2209236/safer-cities-minor-offenses-breeding-ground-for-bigger-crimes

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said minor violations often lead to more serious crimes, underscoring the importance of discipline in building safer communities.

In just two days under the “Safer Cities” initiative, police apprehended nearly 25,000 residents in Metro Manila for low-level violations.

“These minor violations are often the breeding ground for bigger crimes, so we are nipping them in the bud,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement.

“Safety starts with discipline. When communities follow simple rules, we can focus on bigger threats together. Cooperation is key,” he added.

Earlier, the PNP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ordered tighter enforcement of rules against street drinking, going shirtless in public, and late-night karaoke as part of the “Safer Cities” initiative.

Increased police visibility, Nartatez said, would send a “strong message of our active role in crime prevention and instilling discipline.”

Data from the PNP show that 24,881 ordinance violators were apprehended in Metro Manila during the first two days of operations, from April 6 to 7.

Most offenses involved public drinking and smoking (8,075), going shirtless in public (2,672), curfew violations by minors (2,245), and noise complaints from karaoke (584).The remaining 11,305 cases covered various other ordinance breaches.

Of those apprehended, 6,369 were fined, 219 faced formal charges, and 18,293 were released with warnings.

Operations are ongoing across Metro Manila, with enforcement teams patrolling streets, parks, and transport hubs to identify offenders.“The goal is clear and simple: to make every street and every community safe for everybody,” Nartatez emphasized.

Despite the surge in arrests, the PNP chief assured the public that the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) is closely monitoring police conduct.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy for ‘hulidap’ or any form of abuse. Our IAS is open to any complaint,” he said.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier urged the public to document any alleged police abuses under the program.

National Capital Region Police Office spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo also said police are using body-worn cameras to ensure transparency and prevent abuse.

"Minor violations often lead to more serious crimes, underscoring the importance of discipline in building safer communities." That is the essence of the broken windows theory. It appeared to be a success. The laws against late night karaoke, public drinking, public smoking, and going shirtless were finally enforced. The vast majority of the people apprehended were given warnings and released.

Some had warned that enforcing the law would lead to human rights violations. Heaven forbid the cops stop late night karaoke so the neighborhood can sleep lest it violate the singers human right to sing loudly at 3 am. The PNP belayed those fears saying they would be wearing body cameras and they would have minders from the barangay present with them. 

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/983060/drinking-smoking-in-public-top-violations-as-over-24k-apprehended-in-safer-cities-ops-in-ncr/story/

Drinking and smoking in public places emerged as the top violations as authorities apprehended more than 24,000 individuals in the first two days of Safer Cities Initiative operations in Metro Manila.

At a press briefing on Wednesday, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) spokesperson Police Major Hazel Asilo said a total of 24,880 violators were recorded.

(In the past two days for Safer Metro Manila, we have a total of 24,881 total violators.)

Of the total number of violators, 219 were charged, 6,369 were fined, and 18,292 were just warned and released.

The most common offenses include drinking and smoking in public spaces with 8,075.

This was followed by curfew violations involving minors, public nuisance acts such as going shirtless in streets, illegal karaoke, urinating in public, and improper garbage disposal.

The Southern Police District (SPD) logged the highest number of violators with over 12,211. Muntinlupa topped the list, followed by Makati, according to Asilo.

According to the police, the increased visibility of officers is meant to deter crime and ensure compliance, amid some public concerns likening the operations to stricter past enforcement campaigns under the Duterte administration.

Human rights

The NCRPO said that measures are in place to avoid abuse of basic and human rights like body-worn cameras.

(To ensure transparency and to prevent abuse by our police officers, they are all equipped with body-worn cameras.)

(In case there is a violation, we can review the body-worn cameras and those who complain can come forward immediately and we will take immediate action.)

Barangay officials and concerned agencies are also present during the operations.

(Of course we have laws, just like our minors, for example, if they violate them, the intervention of other agencies is needed.)

(Our barangay officials are there so that it’s not just our police who judge the situation… They know their constituents.)

Authorities reported no major public resistance during operations, noting that most violators are aware of existing rules, according to Asilo.

Under the guidelines, first-time offenders are usually given warnings, while repeat violators may face fines, penalties, or community service. 

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced Monday stricter implementation of the ban on alcohol and gambling in public areas and other measures as it rollout its Safer Cities Initiative in Metro Manila.

At a press briefing, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the program will initially be piloted in the National Capital Region before expanding to other major urban centers nationwide.

This reports adds "urinating in public, and improper garbage disposal" to the list of violations along with public drinking and late night karaoke. However, due to the PNP's past performances under Duterte there was concern about enforcement. 

Well, no one needs worry anymore because this program has now been officially suspended for being anti-poor.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/983574/manila-police-safer-cities/story/

The Manila Police District (MPD) suspended its implementation of local ordinances under the Safer Cities Initiative in light of concerns that their provisions may have an “anti-poor” impact.

In a statement on Sunday, MPD spokesperson Police Major Philipp Ines said one particular provision being reported involves penalizing individuals for not wearing shirts in public places.

“In this regard, effective immediately, all operating units and personnel involved in Oplan Galugad and other anti-criminality operations shall refrain from taking punitive actions,” Ines said.

Instead, MPD personnel were directed to issue appropriate warnings and information dissemination, emphasizing proper decorum and community standards.

“This measure aims to uphold public trust and ensure humane and compassionate policing across all areas,” Ines said.

In a separate statement, the Philippine National Police logged 61,549 cases under the Safer Cities Initiative from April 6 to 11.

Drinking and smoking in public places ranked as the top violations with 18,904 cases, followed by roaming shirtless (5,894), curfew violations by minors (5,232), and karaoke beyond allowed hours (1,276), while other ordinance violations totaled 30,243 cases.

PNP said 39,205 individuals were warned or released, 21,317 were fined, and 1,027 cases were filed in court.

Of the 8,256 violators recorded in Metro Manila on April 11, PNP reported the following figures:

• Northern Police District (NPD): 2,155
• Southern Police District (SPD): 2,041
• Quezon City Police District (QCPD): 1,602
• Manila Police District (MPD): 1,269
• Eastern Police District (EPD): 1,189

On the same day, the top cases were drinking and smoking in public places (2,290), roaming without shirts (526), minors violating curfew hours (586), and karaoke beyond allowed hours (70).

A total of 3,800 individuals were fined, 145 were charged, and 4,311 were warned or released.

“Ang gusto natin, habang tumatagal, mas bumababa ang bilang dahil mas sumusunod na ang mga tao,” PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

(As time goes on, we want the number to decrease because more people are complying.)

Is there really a Major Philipp Ines? Is this a joke? The suspension of Oplan Galugad sure is. Of course crime happens poorer areas. Is there late night karaoke and public urination in Manny Pacquiao's neighborhood? The key issue appears to be the "no shirt" ordinance. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/11/mpd-halts-no-shirt-ordinance-enforcement-amid-backlash

The Manila Police District (MPD) has confirmed on Saturday, April 11, that it has temporarily halted the strict enforcement of a city ordinance penalizing individuals for going shirtless in public, following backlash over its perceived “anti-poor” impact.

In a directive dated April 11, 2026, the MPD instructed personnel involved in Oplan Galugad and other anti-criminality operations to refrain from issuing penalties related to the ordinance.

Instead, authorities have been directed to issue warnings and conduct information drives promoting proper public decorum and adherence to community standards.

The MPD said the move is part of efforts to promote a more humane approach to policing while maintaining public order.

Despite the adjustment, police clarified that enforcement of other city ordinances remains in place, including those covering curfew violations and the prohibition of drinking in public places.

This article says only the shirt ordinance is being waved while GMA says the tenure thing is off. Why the contradiction in reporting? Goodness knows the PNP can get a little rough but the laws need to be enforced whether the offenders are poor or rich. 

No Kidding! Part 3: PNP Integrity Education

Corruption is a perennial problem within the ranks of the PNP. Now the National Police Commission  and the Philippine National Police – Internal Affairs Service say the solution is tightening the police force’s recruitment processes and enhancing “integrity education.”

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2055222/recruitment-revamp-integrity-education-eyed-to-address-erring-cops

Tightening the police force’s recruitment processes and enhancing “integrity education” are being eyed in the wake of a number of police officers getting involved or tagged in illegal activities.

This was the response of the National Police Commission (Napolcom) and the Philippine National Police – Internal Affairs Service (PNP IAS) to a recent series of alleged violations by several Quezon City Police District (QCPD) officers.

“Baka kailangan pa mas stringent… [M]ahigpit na ang recruitment processes ng PNP. Pero given this spate of incidents na hindi naman natin pwedeng sabihing isolated, baka kailangan pa natin mas silipin pa,” Napolcom Vice Chairperson Rafael Calinisan said in an interview on Wednesday over dzBB.

(Maybe we need to be more stringent.  The recruitment processes of the PNP are already strict. But given this spate of incidents that we cannot call isolated, maybe we need to look into it even more.)

“Pansinin natin na medyo mga low-ranking ang mga nai-involve. Kakapasok pa lang nila sa serbisyo. Baka hindi nila gaanong naiintindihan yung gaano kalaki yung responsibilidad ng pagsuot ng ganyang uniporme,” Calinisan added.

(Notice that those involved are usually low-ranking officers. They’ve just entered the service. They might not yet understand just how big the responsibility is of wearing that uniform.)

One case involved a police officer breaking into three homes, threatening residents, and harming a grandmother and a minor in Barangay Damayan, Quezon City.

The officer, a staff sergeant, allegedly under the influence of liquor was supposedly searching for an individual who had spread rumors about him being involved in the illegal drugs trade.

Another case involved the QCPD investigation chief, a desk officer and a jail officer who allegedly escorted a female detainee to a hotel to meet her family.

Further, ten Quezon City police officers are under investigation for allegedly failing to declare a bag of suspected marijuana recovered during an operation and charging the individuals they apprehended only with illegal gambling instead of drug-related offenses.

“[K]ailangan talaga na paigtingin yung tinatawag namin na integrity education sapagkat maaaring minsan nakakalimutan yung kanilang tungkulin,” PNP – IAS Inspector General Brigido Dulay said in a press conference at Camp Crame also on Wednesday.

(We need to uphold what we call integrity education because it may be that sometimes their duties are forgotten.)

“[T]ama naman na dapat magkaroon ng edukasyon. Sa recruitment kasi, basic skills lang tinuturo. Pero yung integridad, professionalism? Yan naman ay hindi mo maaaring ituro lang sa classroom. Yan ay isinasaloob. Kapag isinasaloob mo, ibang proseso kailangan mo,” he added.

(It’s right that there needs to be education. Recruitment only teaches basic skills. But integrity, professionalism? Those cannot be taught in a classroom. That’s internalized. And when you internalize, you need a different process.)

Dulay said the PNP – IAS will launch an “integrity caravan” in the coming months in hopes of re-instilling the value into police officers.

Dulay also said that the number of erring police officers was not representative of the 225,000-strong national police force.

“Yung datos namin sa Internal Affairs Service, yung mga pulis natin na nasasangkot sa ganitong pangyayari, ito naman ay mga isang porsyento ng buong pwersa ng kapulisan,” he said.

(Our data at the Internal Affairs Service shows that police officers who are involved illegal activities make up only 1 percent of the whole police force.)

“Hindi ito justification para gawin ng mga pulis natin, pero para sa 99 porsyento ng mga kasama ko sa PNP na walang problema. Marami diyan, hindi naman sa operations. Nagtatrabaho nang matino, nagtatrabaho nang maayos,” he added.

(This isn’t justification for what the police did, but this is for the 99 percent of my comrades in the PNP who have no problems. Many of them are in operations. They’re just doing their jobs right.)

Dulay pointed out that there were 674 complaints lodged against police officers for alleged violations as of April 22, 2025.

He also reported that 1,897 cases were filed against police officers in 2023 and 2,073 cases in 2024.

Oh wow! The PNP needs to stringently assess recruits and educate current officers about integrity? No kidding!

But the thing is the PNP itself is a corrupt organization. Power corrupts. When an officer takes that oath and dons that uniform he is imbued with power. Let's go back 300 years to 1721 and read the words of Gaspar de San Augustin. 

43. They act tyrannically one toward another. Consequently, the Indian who has some power from the Spaniard is insolent and intolerable among, them —so much so that, in the midst of their ingratitude, some of them recognize it, although very few of them. 

 http://www.philippinehistory.net/views/1720sanagustin.htm

The PNP will never eliminate corruption from its ranks because corruption is endemic to the organization. It come with the territory. That does not mean they shouldn't rigorously assess all new recruits or teach current officers about integrity. They should. I thank the PNP for stating something so obvious. 

There is No Rule of Law in the Philippines

Can everyone stop pretending the rule of law exists in the Philippines? Here is another example of many that such a state does not exist in this country.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/943095/3-on-motorcycle-killed-in-collision-with-truck-in-negros-oriental/story/

Three persons on a motorcycle were killed after they collided head-on with an oncoming truck in Barangay Poblacion in Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental.

According to a report on "24 Oras," CCTV footage from the area showed the motorcycle speeding moments before the crash. 

The three riders ended up under the truck and died on the scene.

The Zamboanguita police said the victims’ families have decided not to press charges against the truck driver. The owner of the truck has reportedly pledged to assist with funeral expenses.

It would seem that if the motorcycle was speeding then they are at fault and not the driver of the truck.  But that is not for me to determine. That is not for the family to determine. That is for THE LAW to determine. And yet because the family has decided to not press charges this guy is going to walk away scot-free. 

The term "Rule of Law" generally applies to the state. Here is what Francis Fukuyama says in Political Order and Political Decay. 

The institutions of the state concentrate power and allow the community to deploy that power to enforce laws, keep the peace, defend itself against outside enemies, and provide necessary public goods. The rule of law and mechanisms of accountability, by contrast, pull in the opposite direction: they constrain the state’s power and ensure that it is used only in a controlled and consensual manner. The miracle of modern politics is that we can have political orders that are simultaneously strong and capable and yet constrained to act only within the parameters established by law and democratic choice.

Political Order and Political Decay, Francis Fukuyama, pg. 22, ebook

But the rule of law must be extended to every sector of society. Everyone must be subject to the same laws. It is the state who is the enforcer of the law. In this case the state is represented by the PNP. But the PNP has delegated their power to the victim's family. It is not for them to decided the fate of the driver. He must be subject to the laws of the land. If he is not then there is no point in having laws. 

This is not just a policing failure. It is a systemic breakdown of the rule of law. It signals that how others feel matter more than what the law says. That’s not justice. That’s not order. That’s not a state.

In countries where the rule of law prevails, a person involved in a fatal collision would be investigated, and the evidence—CCTV, witnesses, forensic reports—would be weighed by prosecutors. There, the question is not “do the victims forgive him?” but “did he break the law?”

In a functioning rule of law system, crimes are offenses against the public order, not merely against individuals. That’s why the state prosecutes vehicular homicide even if no one files a complaint. When prosecution is contingent on personal feelings,  justice is replaced with sentimentality.

More "Isolated Incidents" In The Philippines

Every single time a horrible crime happens the PNP makes the bizarre decision to comfort the public by saying, "Don't Panic. This is an isolated incident." Let's look at two of these recent isolated incidents. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/16/killing-of-slovakian-tourist-in-boracay-an-isolated-incident-police

The Police Regional Office-6 said that the killing of a Slovakian tourist at world-famous Boracay Island in Malay town, Aklan province is an isolated incident.

“We are considering this as an isolated incident,” said Police Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, PRO-6 chief.

Police continue to hunt for the suspects in the killing of Michaela Mickova whose body was discovered on March 12.

The 23-year-old tourist was originally declared missing and she was found half-naked with a stab wound to the stomach in an abandoned chapel.

Wanky visited the crime scene last week and ordered the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) and the Malay Municipal Police Station (Malay MPS) to prioritize the investigation.

Police Lt. Col. Mar Joseph Ravelo, Malay police chief, denied reports that one of the suspects have been arrested. 

Ravelo said that the suspect was caught selling an illegal firearm last Saturday night.

He said on Sunday, March 16, that the suspect arrested in Barangay Balabag had nothing to do with her death.

Police Col. Arnel Ramos, Aklan police chief, assured the resort-island remains to be a safe destination.

“Boracay Island remains a safe and secure tourist destination. We are steadfast in our commitment to maintain public safety and order, especially for tourists,” Ramos said.

In this case it might very well be an isolated incident. There aren't many murders being reported in Boracay. But obviously tourists are concerned because a murder did happen. But how does dismissing what happened reassure anyone? 

Instead of saying "were on it" they are saying forget about it. It's an isolated incident. Go back to sleep. Please keep spending those tourist dollars and pesos in Boracay.  Salamat po." That is not reassuring. 

This next case is even more messed up.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/04/12/2435381/pnp-fil-chinese-traders-stay-calm

In the wake of the recent kidnap-slay of Filipino-Chinese steel magnate Anson Que and his driver Armanie Pabillo, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Marbil assured members of the Filipino-Chinese community of their safety and security.

Marbil and other senior PNP officials met with representatives of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) at Camp Crame yesterday to address concerns within the Filipino-Chinese community following the kidnapping cases that have raised worries within the business sector and the general public.

The PNP has documented 13 kidnapping cases since January. Eight of the incidents involved Chinese nationals as victims.

Marbil assured the FFCCCII that the PNP is exerting all efforts to arrest Que’s killers and suspects in other kidnapping cases as he urged the federation members to stay calm.

“We are mobilizing all investigative assets and leveraging every capability to ensure these incidents do not recur,” Marbil said in a statement.

The PNP and FFCCCII have agreed to establish a collaborative program focused on proactive measures to detect potential threats.

Among these are enhancing coordination with territorial police units, strengthening surveillance efforts in key business hubs and providing safety briefings to member companies and communities.

Marbil maintained that the country remains safe for business and travel despite Que’s killing, stressing the PNP remains vigilant and responsive to any threat to peace and order.

“We call for calm and unity. These isolated incidents do not define our nation,” he said.

The federation along with several other business groups issued a strongly worded statement last Thursday, decrying Que’s murder and saying the recent kidnappings are not “isolated incidents.”

They demanded “swift and unrelenting” action as they rejected “empty platitudes, the hollow theories, the bureaucratic inertia that too often follow such horrors.”

“We call for an unyielding reinforcement of the rule of law – not through rhetoric, but through resolute, systemic reform,” the groups declared.

Special task force

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said an inter-agency task force will be created to handle kidnapping cases.

Remulla said the task force will be composed of the Department of Justice, Department of the Interior and Local Government, the PNP, National Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Immigration.

“The creation of the task force is paramount. The aim here is to have a higher visibility, leadership that people can talk to if there is a problem,” he said at a press conference, noting that a lot of people have doubts about law enforcement.

Remulla said hotlines will be set up where people can call in tips, report crimes and whatever else the community may need.

The Supreme Court will also be asked to create special courts to handle kidnapping cases.

Remulla said the creation of the task force will be “drawn up” and the result will be announced next week.

POGO henchmen

A group of Chinese nationals acting as henchmen of illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) are being investigated for their possible involvement in the murder of Que and his driver.

The special investigation task group formed by the PNP is looking at the group’s connection with Que’s killing as their signature is the same as other killings they allegedly perpetrated.

Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, spokesperson for the PNP, said the way Que and his driver were killed is similar to the fate of another Chinese national and his driver who were killed and his body dumped somewhere in Rizal province sometime in 2024.

Que and Pabillo were found hogtied, their faces covered in duct tape and their bodies placed inside a nylon sack in Barangay Macabud in Rodriguez, Rizal on Wednesday morning.

They were killed by strangulation, similar to the two other victims last year.

“There is similarity in another incident involving also a Chinese national last year, we may be looking at the same modus operandi,” Fajardo said at a news briefing in Camp Crame.

The Chinese nationals were tagged by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission as the muscle group of POGO operators.

Fajardo said the group’s function is to threaten people who owe POGO operators money. “They are the ones who collect allegedly from those who have debts in relation to POGO operations,” she said.

At a previous briefing, Fajardo said they are looking at whether Que’s death is related to POGOs but she did not elaborate.

Members of the muscle group were also used by POGO operators to torture employees who fail to reach their daily quota, with some incidents caught on video.

While the SITG has yet to establish the number of suspects in Que’s murder, Fajardo said it could not have been executed by just two or three persons.

‘Don’t mock kidnappings’

Meanwhile, Malacañang asked Honeylet Avanceña, the common-law wife of detained former president Rodrigo Duterte, not to mock the recent spate of deadly kidnappings in the country.

At a press briefing yesterday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro was asked to comment on Avanceña’s apparently sarcastic statement congratulating the Marcos administration for the recent spate of high-profile kidnappings and killings.

“We do not make fun of this kind of a situation. For Ms. Honeylet Avanceña, please don’t create an issue because lives are at stake here. Lives were lost. Do not make an issue and make fun of the government,” Castro said in Filipino.

“We don’t know why Ms. Honeylet has this attitude. It’s as if she is happy that there are incidents like these in the country,” Castro said.

Low crime rate

House assistant majority leader and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong defended the PNP’s report showing a decline in the national crime rate, adding that Que’s case should not be used to discredit nationwide data.

“One incident cannot just overrun and overhaul the data gathered by the PNP,” Adiong said.

According to PNP chief Marbil, their data show a 26.76 percent drop in focus crimes –  from 4,817 cases between Jan. 1 and Feb. 14, 2024 down to 3,528 in the same period this year.

Year-on-year data also reflected a 7.31-percent decrease in focus crimes, from 41,717 cases in 2023 to 38,667 in 2024.

“We call for calm and unity. These isolated incidents do not define our nation"???

Sorry not sorry but there have been 13 kidnapping incidents since January eight which have involved Chinese victims. That is called a trend. And yet the PNP says these are all isolated incidents which "do not define our nation." LOL! Who are Chinese nationals supposed to unify around? 

Maybe these are all isolated incidents and the crime rate is plummeting. But these words don't comfort anyone. Especially the Chinese who are regularly targeted by...THE CHINESE! They can thank Duterte for legalizing POGO's.

The point here is the PNP very quick to dismiss heinous crimes as something to not be worried about. Their motive is not factual but an attempt to calm the public and retain tourist dollars. That is very disingenuous. 

Stupid PNP Antics

Cops around the world engage in stupid antics as a way to connect with the public and relieve stress. The Philippine National Police as well as the Department of Justice is no exception. Here are a few of their latest stupid antics.

K-9's are an important part of policing. Recenlty one dog was promoted to corporal. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/7/fur-tastic-promotion-shih-tzu-police-dog-gets-promoted-with-200-cops-in-rizal

"Tiger at your service!”

A Shih Tzu-Poodle mix police dog named "Tiger" stole the spotlight as netizens were amused by its promotion together with more than 200 police personnel during the simultaneous oath-taking in Taytay, Rizal, on Thursday, Feb. 6.

The Rizal Police Provincial Office (Rizal PPO) said the event was part of the nationwide oath-taking, donning, and pinning of ranks for 2nd-level uniformed personnel for the 2024 calendar year, with local ceremonies held at the Parade Ground of the Rizal PPO.

Tiger was promoted to corporal and has been courageously serving alongside the Rizal PPO in their field responses.

“Tiger brought joy and excitement to the newly promoted personnel and their families,” it said.

According to PNP, the event is part of the regular promotion cycle for Calendar Year 2024, recognizing the dedication and exemplary service of personnel who have shown outstanding commitment to law enforcement.

We are not told exactly what this dog did to earn a promotion. From the sound of it he did nothing except exist and make people happy. Why is the PNP taking a shih-tzu on patrol? Is he sniffing for drugs? That does not seem likely or it would have been reported. 

Prank calls to 911 are such a nuisance that DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla is recommending LGUs purchase motorcycles so PNP officers can investigate if a call is legitimate before sending in the calvary.  

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243645

Provincial governors must acquire motorcycles for local police to ensure immediate response to reports through the country’s 911 emergency hotline, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said.

In a news release on Saturday, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the purchase of new motorcycles would allow the police to quickly verify the legitimacy of reported incidents, considering that 60 percent of total reports to 911 were prank calls.

“I ask you for only one thing: Buy motorcycles. Give that to the police and let them verify if the call is legitimate or not,” he was quoted as saying during the 7th General Assembly of the League of Provinces of the Philippines in Pasig City on Friday.

Remulla said it is a small investment for the governors to ensure that government resources will not be wasted.

During his four terms as Cavite governor, he acquired 800 police cars as logistical support to respond quickly to calls for assistance.

He said the national government would shoulder all expenses for the launching of the nationwide integrated 911 system, adding that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered adjustments to the national budget to support the initiative.

“The only investment of LGUs is I ask you to give policemen access to motorcycles para (for) first response, laging pulis, para madetermine talaga ang nangyayari (it’s always the police, to determine what’s really happening),” Remulla said.

He said towns will be provided with firetrucks and ambulances for quick response during emergencies.

"The 911 is worthless if you only call but there is no response. It’s just like you’re only complaining. So, we have to capacitate LGUs to be able to respond,” Remulla said.

The DILG is eyeing the launch of the integrated 911 emergency response system by June in the Greater Manila area, Cebu and Mindanao.

The 911 replaced the old Philippine emergency hotline117 in 2016.

Calls coursed through 911 include those that require police assistance, fire reports, emergency medical assistance, search and rescue, and even those that concern chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive materials.

One has to wonder why the PNP does not have a supply of motorcycles or cars or trucks on hand. These vehicles are necessary for patrolling the road and enforcing traffic laws. Sadly the roads are full of dangerous drivers because the PNP do not enforce traffic laws. But isn't it sad that so many Filipinos are prank calling 911 the this suggestion has to be made? Are prank callers being charged with a crime?

The whole world knows Filipinos love to dance. That explains why the Irish embassy is teaching Irish dancing to female prisoners. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244026

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has partnered with the Irish Embassy in the Philippines to facilitate a dance workshop for female persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

In a news release on Thursday, the DOJ said the workshop was held at the Correctional Institution for Women compound in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday with Irish Ambassador to the Philippines Emma Hickey and Embassy of Ireland in the Philippines Head of Consular Naomi McElroy in attendance.

The activity intends to promote health and wellness through the art of Irish dance and introduce the Irish culture to female inmates, serving as an avenue to strengthen Filipino-Irish international relations.

This is in line with the Marcos administration’s commitment to upgrading human rights in the country and improving the lot of the country’s inmates, including their reintegration into mainstream society.

"This Dance Workshop is a symbol of our collective commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration, and a celebration of second chances," Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez said.

The Irish envoy, meanwhile, expressed elation for being part of the activity.

"I’m delighted to be here with you as I have heard great things about the programs underway at CIW. Thank you for the wonderful welcome you have given my team and I," she said.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla thanked the Irish ambassador for the “noble event” for the “reforming sisters behind bars.”

“Your diplomacy speaks volumes, we look forward to more partnerships with Ireland in the near future," he said.

The dance workshop was supported by the Samahan ng mga Pilipina para sa Reporma at Kaunlaran (SPARK) Philippines Inc., a non-profit organization that champions the development of women and youth as full partners in gender equality.

How exactly does teaching Irish dance to female prisoners improve their lives? Will female ex-cons be forming Irish dancing troupes and touring the nation? And who was teaching the dancing? Did the Irish embassy fly in a group to teach these ladies to do the River Dance? 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is alive and well in the Philippines. 20% of the PNP force is female and the PNP Chief says this reflects an improvement in law enforcement.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1244007

The rising number of female police officers reflects the significant improvement in the country’s law enforcement service formerly dominated by male officials, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said on Thursday.

Marbil said the PNP is now composed of 42,757 female officers serving in various capacities, or 20 percent of more than 200,000 personnel.

“This is a testament to the PNP’s commitment to gender equality and professional excellence. No longer are women just part of the PNP—they are driving its transformation,” Marbil said in a statement.

Based on existing recruitment rules emphasized by the National Police Commission (Napolcom) in its memorandum issued in 2021, the PNP should allocate 10 percent of its annual recruitment quota to women.

There is a pending bill before the House of Representatives to increase the annual recruitment quota to at least 20 percent.

Marbil said 151 female officers hold key command and operational positions.

“These women are not just making history—they are shaping the future of policing. They have shattered ceilings, proven their mettle, and are leading from the frontlines. Leadership is not about gender; it is about competence, vision, and the unwavering commitment to serve,” Marbil said.

One of them is Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, the first female PNP spokesperson who now also holds the record of being the first-ever female Regional Director. She is the concurrent director of the Police Regional Office in Region 3 (Central Luzon).

Brig. Gen. Jezebel D. Medina also holds the top post of the PNP Health Service while Police Brig. Gen Portia Manalad heads the Women and Children Protection Center.

Brig. Gen. Maria Leonora Camarao is now also the Regional Director of the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) in the National Capital Region while Col. Vina Guzman, the current PNP Academy Commandant of Cadets is expected to be promoted to one-star general as she holds a Brigadier General-equivalent position.

Across various leadership levels, Marbil said a total of 103 police colonels and 35 police lieutenant colonels hold strategic positions.

Marbil said two women now serve as chiefs of police in Makati City and Mandaluyong City while five female police officers currently hold the top PNP post in five provinces— Aurora, Guimaras, Antique, Siquijor, and Leyte Sur.

Zamboanga City, a critical urban hub, is under the command of a female City Director — Col. Kimberly Molitas.

Marbil also reaffirmed the PNP’s steadfast commitment to empowering female officers by ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement, leadership training, and professional growth.

He emphasized that the organization will continue to foster a culture where excellence and not gender defines success.

You know, come to think of it, I don't recall ever hearing about a female cop shooting a drug user. That's a good thing right? But note that the PNP Chief says they want "to foster a culture where excellence and not gender defines success" after lauding the hiring and promotion of female cops! 

Valentine's Day has come and gone and with it the stupidest PNP antic of all, handing out flowers, chocolate, and balloons to the public. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/2/15/rizal-cops-serenade-hand-out-flowers-chocolates-and-balloons-on-valentine-s-day

Police serenaded the public as they handed out flowers, balloons and chocolates in Taytay, Rizal on Valentine’s Day.

The men and women of the Rizal Police Provincial Office (PPO) gave roses, red balloons, and chocolates to passersby in Taytay, Rizal as the Rizal PPO band members sang love songs on February 14 in Taytay. 

Men, women, and kids alike received the Valentine items from the police during the PPO’s annual activity on Valentine’s Day. 

At the PPO camp, Col. Felipe Maraggun, police director, also serenaded female personnel in the morning before heading out to different police stations for his usual daily routine of activities.

The giving out of Valentine gifts to the public has been an annual tradition of the Rizal PPO men and women during this time of the year.

What a waste of money which would be better spent on motorcycles to check on 911 calls. 

Blowing up Illegal Firecrackers

What do you do with illegal firecrackers? Douse them with water and toss them in the trash? Well, in the Philippines you blow them up!

https://mb.com.ph/2025/1/8/police-destroy-seized-firecrackers-in-cagayan-valley

The Police Regional Office-2 destroyed 1,347 illegal firecrackers seized during the Yuletide season in the Cagayan Valley region on Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 7.

Police Brig. Gen. Antonio Marallag Jr., PRO-2 chief, said the destruction aimed to eliminate hazards posed by illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

“This initiative not only complies with laws and regulations but also protects the community from the dangers associated with firecracker-related injuries and accidents," Marallag said.

"This annual event is a crucial part of our efforts to educate the public about the risks of illegal fireworks and to encourage safer celebration practices,” Marallag added. 

The Bureau of Fire Protection assisted the police in the destruction of the banned firecrackers valued at P38,000.

Setting off illegal firecrackers? Bad. Setting off illegal firecrackers by the PNP? Good. Ridiculous. Why not defuse them and douse them with water? Surely there are safer ways to destroy firecrackers than by blowing them up. 

Don't tell that to the Zamboanga PNP. 

https://mb.com.ph/2025/1/7/zamboanga-city-police-destroy-seized-firecrackers

Several cartons of firecrackers confiscated by the police here during the holiday season were destroyed on Tuesday, Jan. 7. 

A Zamboanga City Police Office statement said the disposal was carried out in coordination with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal-9 and other concerned agencies in Barangay Muti here, more than 50 kilometers away from the central business district.  

“This operation is part of the ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and maintain peace, especially in times of community celebration. The firecrackers, which were previously seized during routine operations last Yuletide season, were safely and efficiently disposed of by the EOD-9 team, in accordance with established safety protocols,” police said. 

Zamboanga City Police Office spokesperson Police Major Albert Alfaro disclosed these firecrackers were seized based on an ordinance banning their sale and use. 

These were destroyed in the area far from the town proper to prevent a repeat of the huge explosion that happened in Barangay Cabatangan last July. 

In the past, seized firecrackers were destroyed in front of City Hall.  

What is safe about setting off illegal fireworks in front of City Hall? NOTHING!! Here is what happened last year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228556

A total of 27 persons, including 19 uniformed personnel, were wounded in an explosion of firecrackers that were for disposal in Zamboanga City on Monday afternoon.

In a report on Tuesday, the Zamboanga City Police Office said the victims consisted of eight civilians, six police officers, three Philippine Coast Guard members, five Bureau of Fire Protection personnel, and five members of the Philippine Marine Corps.

Of the 19 uniformed personnel, one is in critical condition while four were "severely wounded," according to the report.

Meanwhile, the other victims sustained minor injuries and were all discharged from the hospital.

Initial investigation showed members of the Regional Explosive Canine Unit (RECU) 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) transported the firecrackers using a marked vehicle with plate number 092805 to the disposal site in Zone 2, Barangay Cabatangan, Zamboanga City.

RECU members were about to dispose of the firecrackers when these prematurely exploded at the site at about 5:35 p.m. on Monday.

The firecrackers were seized in the aftermath of an explosion in a pyrotechnic warehouse in the city's Barangay Tetuan on June 29.

Responding personnel of the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office provided the victims with first aid and brought to hospitals those hurt badly in the explosion.

HAHA!!! Let's not pretend that isn't funny because it is hilarious! These morons think the proper way to dispose of fireworks is to blow them up and they got what they deserved. 

If you Google "how to dispose of fireworks" this the very first result. 

Three Steps to Safe Fireworks Disposal

1. Soak. Completely submerge fireworks in a bucket of water. Allow to soak overnight.
2. Wrap. Double wrap soaked fireworks in plastic wrap or plastic bags so they do not dry out.
3. Dispose. Place wrapped bags in regular household garbage and take to your local solid waste facility.

Only in the Philippines do authorities destroy illegal fireworks by blowing them up instead of defusing and disposing of them.