Almost 44,000 police officers have been promoted across the country in the latest mass promotion of 2nd level officers in the Philippine National Police (PNP).

In his speech during the ceremonial oath-taking, donning and donning of ranks at Camp Crame in Quezon City, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Jr. urged the 43,823 police officers who were promoted to support the radical internal cleansing in the organization through the mass courtesy resignation of 3rd level officers, or from the rank of full colonel to four-star generals.

"Let us all be reminded that for as long as we are in the police service, we are in the PNP organization, no PNP personnel should be involved in the use, possession, manufacture, trade or sell of any illegal drugs," said Azurin.

"That should be a no, no to every PNP personnel and you should always try to bear that in mind," he added.

Those promoted were the ranks of Corporal to Police Executive Master Sergeant for the Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCOs) and from the rank of Lieutenant to Major.

Similar ceremonial donning of ranks were held in 17 Police Regional Offices across the country.

Those promoted were 406 Majors; 3,568 Captain; 273 Lieutenant; 1,707 are Executive Master Sergeant; 3, 507 for Chief Master Sergeant; 3, 033 Senior Master Sergeant, 5,046 Master Sergeant; 11, 711 Staff Sergeant; and 14,562 Corporals.

The regular promotion program ensures a streamlined rank structure of the entire 227,00-strong police organization according to the staffing pattern approved by the National Police Commission.

"Your promotion today defines success and it is anchored with huge opportunity and motivation to further impart your ideals, wisdom and vision," said Azurin.

"So as you move up to the career ladder, it is important to remember that with greater authority comes greater accountability and as future leaders of the PNP, it is your duty to serve as role model to your fellow officers, a leader with integrity, professionalism and respect of laws," he added.