BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – Police officers with relatives running in the 2025 midterm elections will be temporarily reassigned.
Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky, director of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), announced the measure to ensure neutrality and professionalism within the ranks of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“This move aims to avoid any perception of bias during the election period,” Wanky said.
Police officers related by consanguinity up to the fourth degree to candidates are required to declare these relationships to their Chief of Police and request reassignment.
The reassignment could involve transfers to other municipalities or provinces, depending on the circumstances.
“The process will be coordinated with their respective Chiefs of Police to ensure smooth transitions,” said Wanky.
After the elections, officers are expected to return to their original posts unless their reassignment proves more beneficial and leads to a permanent transfer based on mutual agreement, the PRO-6 director added.
Police personnel under the (PRO-6 have been reminded to remain politically neutral as the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for the 2025 elections started yesterday.
Wanky emphasized the importance of impartiality among officers during the election period, urging them to steer clear of partisan activities and avoid serving political figures.
“Our officers must remain apolitical and neutral,” Wanky stressed. “We need to intensify our preparations for the elections to ensure peace and order during the 2025 polls.”
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil also issued a directive to all local police units to stay vigilant and perform their duties effectively under the PNP’s Quad principle, prioritizing public safety throughout the election season.
“We are entering a crucial period as candidates for the 2025 elections begin filing their COCs. Every officer must understand that political neutrality is a core responsibility. Do not allow yourselves to be influenced or used by politicians,” Marbil warned.
He further emphasized that the PNP’s duty is to uphold law and order without bias, cautioning that officers engaging in partisan activities will face consequences.
“Any form of political interference, whether direct or indirect, will be met with swift and decisive action,” he added./PN
