Marbil: Amend DILG Act to address PNP organizational flaws

The Philippine National Police

MANILA, Philippines — Congress should amend the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Act of 1990, the law that established the Philippine National Police (PNP), to “address” the “organizational flaws” in the police force, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil said on Sunday.

He said Congress should “resolve systemic challenges that impede the force’s ability and capacity to respond swiftly and effectively” as this would help the PNP become a “flatter, more streamlined structure.”

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“The current hierarchical system often slows down decision-making, particularly in critical situations where prompt responses are vital,” Marbil’s statement read.

“[A] flatter organizational structure would improve accountability, as clearer roles and responsibilities would facilitate better oversight and performance monitoring, which are crucial elements in maintaining public trust and upholding law enforcement standards,” he added.

Marbil also pointed out that decentralizing the PNP would give lower-ranking officers the power to make decisions locally and reduce delays in operations.

“[W]hile Republic Act 6975 was groundbreaking at its inception, it must evolve to meet the demands of modern policing. By restructuring the PNP, the Philippines would move closer to building a police force that is efficient, accountable, and adequately equipped to serve the public in the 21st century,” he said.

Marbil also said streamlining the PNP would enhance communication throughout the organization.

“This kind of structure encourages leadership and initiative at all levels, inspiring creativity and innovation in tackling the country’s security challenges,” he added.