PNP backs Marcos veto of restructuring bill

FILE PHOTO: This photo taken January 24, 2024, shows Philippine National Police (PNP) officers gathering for the pre-launching of Bangon Pilipinas Kick-off Rally held outside the PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City. INQUIRER/LYN RILLON

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is supporting the decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto the bill for the institution’s reorganization.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the police force “understands the President’s concerns about maintaining fairness and equality in compensation for all officers, as well as avoiding unnecessary bureaucracy and potential security risks.”

“The Philippine National Police supports the decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to veto the proposed PNP reform bill,” she said in a statement Friday.

In vetoing the bill, Marcos cited potential distortion in pay due to a provision that would substantially raise the salary of Philippine National Police Academy cadets to the point of exceeding that of a police lieutenant.

READ: Marcos vetoes PNP restructuring bill

He also noted that the proposed law goes against the government’s rightsizing program as there may be different offices performing the same functions.

Fajardo said they will work with Congress to make sure that future proposals will not result in unfavorable effects on existing policies.

“We assure the public and the administration that the PNP will carefully consider the President’s observations,” Fajardo said.

“The PNP is committed to working closely with the administration and Congress to develop better legislation that strengthens the police force without any unintended drawbacks,” he added.

Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, a former PNP chief, sponsored the Senate version of the vetoed bill. He said he was “disheartened” that Marcos did not approve his proposal.