More than 11,000 members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) took the first ever special qualifying exams for the two Moro groups of the National Police Commission (Napolcom).
The Napolcom's Special Qualifying Eligibility Examination (NSQEE) held at Cotabato City and Lamitan City on May 29 will give opportunity for MILF and MNLF members to join the Philippine National Police (PNP) as part of the government's peace agreement with the two former Moro rebel groups.
In a statement, Napolcom said 11,033 out of the 11,075 who applied showed up to take the exams.
A total of 1,616 applicants took the exams in Lamitan City, Basilan City while 9,417 in Cotabato City.
Examination results will be announced within 45 – 60 days.
The Napolcom, however, stressed that passing the NSQEE does not automatically guarantee their recruitment to the PNP.
"The NSQE will provide them the appropriate eligibility for the rank of Patrolman/Patrolwoman in temporary appointment," the statement read.
It explained that permanent appointment may only be given upon satisfaction of the prescribed educational requirement of baccalaureate degree which they have to obtain within 15 years upon entry to the PNP.