PNP partners with Lazada vs illegal sale of police uniforms
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its crackdown on the manufacturing and sale of its uniforms and insignias amid reports of their rampant use and their availability even to criminal elements.
On Monday, June 19, PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. signed an agreement with Lazada, one of the biggest and popular online selling platforms in the country, to ensure that no PNP uniforms and insignias will be available on its site.
“At the heart of this agreement is our shared determination to combat the proliferation of unauthorized selling of counterfeit and substandard pnp uniforms, insignias, and accoutrements,” said Acorda.
“We all understand the grave consequences that arise from the unauthorized manufacture, sale, and distribution of official pnp items. Not only does it compromise the integrity of our organization, but it also poses a serious threat to public safety and security,” he added.
The statement was made amid the reported use of PNP uniforms by criminal elements as they could be easily obtained despite the existing law that prohibits its manufacture and sale to the public through the Executive Order 297.
The EO regulates the manufacturing, sale, distribution, and use of pnp uniforms, insignias, and other accoutrements.
The EO explicitly prohibits the use of pnp items by individuals who are not active and bona fide members of the pnp. hence, it is our responsibility to uphold this order and ensure that our uniforms and accoutrements retain their rightful exclusivity.
With the Memorandum of Agreement with Lazada, Acorda said it would ensure that no online seller would be able to use the online platform in the sale of PNP uniforms and other items that are exclusively used by policemen.
“The signing of this mou represents a significant step towards eradicating these illicit activities. This solidifies our commitment to safeguard the proper use of these items,” said Acorda.
“Lazada, as one of Southeast Asia's leading e-commerce platforms, plays a vital role in providing an online marketplace for third-party sellers. their support and commitment to combating the unauthorized selling of PNP items are commendable,” he added.