President Marcos has lauded the officers of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their resolve to uphold the rule of law and for their dedication and service, especially for conducting operations as humane, truthful, and bloodless as possible.

Marcos said this as he joined the PNP in its 123rd Police Service Anniversary celebration at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Thursday, Aug. 8.

In his speech, the President hailed the PNP's achievements and reforms under Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil's leadership.

"I acknowledge the strong determination of our police to maintain peace, security, and harmony in our beloved country. I salute all of the officers and personnel of the PNP, under the leadership of General Marbil," he said.

"Police operations are now conducted as humane, truthful, and bloodless as possible," he added.

Despite this, President Marcos reminded police officers to be disciplined, transparent, and fair in their duties as "brave peacekeepers and protestors" of peace, order, and safety in communities, while ensuring the well-being, security, and dignity of every Filipino.

"Sa ilalim ng Bagong Pilipinas, ang ating kapulisan ay maasahan, malalapitan, at mapagkakatiwalaan (Under the Bagong Pilipinas, our police are reliable, approachable, and trustworthy)," he said.

"Erring and corrupt police personnel will face the appropriate sanctions. Remember, your mandate and place in public safety and service are at the core of your duty," he added.

Achievements and reforms

Marcos highlighted the drop in crime rates in formerly crime-prone areas due to the PNP's intensified patrol operations. He likewise mentioned that the PNP has responded to 99 percent of the calls for police assistance.

He cited the operationalization of the PNP Cybersecurity Operations Center, which intensified its cyber patroling and ensured that the police could handle the complexities of cybercrime.

The President said the PNP's joint operations with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on internal security have led to the neutralization of 1,951 members of local and communist terrorist groups

"These achievements were made possible because of the PNP's resolve to uphold the rule of law and the unparalleled dedication and service of our police officers," he said.

With this, President Marcos asked the PNP to support Marbil in his leading a "paradigm shift" where the police are not feared but welcomed in communities and communities work with police because of trust and not mere compliance.

Ensured support

President Marcos renewed the government's commitment to supporting the PNP, particularly the welfare of its officers and their families.

He added that his administration remains committed to supporting the PNP through the Comprehensive Capability Enhancement Program.

"We will also continue to provide additional logistical resources and advanced information technology tools to further empower our police force," Marcos said.

"As long as we are united by our common goal of protecting our people and ensuring that the rule of law reigns supreme, we are on track towards a safe, secure, and empowered Bagong Pilipinas," he added.

During the event, Marcos led the awarding of various personnel and units who have shown exemplary performance in the line of duty.  He also inspected the display of newly acquired PNP assets, including 20 units of personnel carriers, 299 units of light motorcycles, 193 units of light transport vehicles, 75 units of patrol jeep single cabs, and 155 units of light machine guns.