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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'T-shirt sa preso naman?': Partygoer in trouble for using police uniform in Halloween party as PNP conducts probe

'T-shirt sa preso naman?': Partygoer in trouble for using police uniform in Halloween party as PNP conducts probe

Published Nov 3, 2025 10:55 am
This photo of what authorities described as unauthorized use of sleeve-cut police uniform did not sit well with the Philippine National Police (PNP) which is now conducting investigation into the illegal use of the police uniform which it said is punishable by law. ([photo: Napolcom chair Ralph Calinisan Facebook)
This photo of what authorities described as unauthorized use of sleeve-cut police uniform did not sit well with the Philippine National Police (PNP) which is now conducting investigation into the illegal use of the police uniform which it said is punishable by law. ([photo: Napolcom chair Ralph Calinisan Facebook)
He may have impressed fellow partygoers with his outfit, but a number of policemen were offended by how he used their uniform as a Halloween costume. And now, these angry cops are suggesting that he should try another one—that shirt for those who are sent to jail.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now conducting an investigation into the illegal use of its uniform for what it described as a clear violation of the law, particularly Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes the illegal use of uniforms and insignias.
This also prompted Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. to urge the public to respect the police uniform, which he described as a symbol of authority and sacrifice.
Nartatez emphasized that the uniform is a symbol of authority and sacrifice that must not be trivialized as a Halloween costume, “The PNP uniform symbolizes service, sacrifice, and integrity.”
“Our uniform is a symbol of our duty to serve and protect the public, this should not be used as a costume or for any gimmickry,” he stressed.
Nartatez was reacting to a photo posted by a netizen regarding a partygoer cut the sleeves of a PNP uniform and used it as a Halloween costume.
This was called out by National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer (VCEO) Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan who emphasized a violation of the law.
“This use of PNP uniform as a Halloween costume is TOTAL DISRESPECT for our men in uniform,” Calinisan posted in his Facebook account.
The partygoer was already identified and already issued a public apology but Napolcom was determined to summon him to explain and educate on respect on symbols of government authority.
On the part of Nartatez, he acknowledged the public apology issued by the partygoer on social media, but emphasized that the situation highlights the need to educate the public on the proper regard for official symbols of authority.
“We appreciate the apology and urge everyone to take this issue as a learning opportunity. The uniform represents the trust and responsibility vested in our police officers, it should always be treated with respect,” said Nartatez.
In trouble
In a press briefing, Nartatez said the incident is now being investigated by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for violation of the Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes the illegal use of uniforms and insignias.
Part of the investigation is to determine where the partygoer obtained the police uniform which he used in the Halloween party.
Nartatez, however, ordered concerned police units to run after those who illegally sell police uniforms.
He said he also instructed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to monitor online platforms and coordinate with e-commerce sites to detect and remove unauthorized listings selling official or imitation PNP uniforms.
“We remind the public that unauthorized use of the PNP uniform is punishable by law,” said Nartatez.
Significant leap
For Nartatez, the PNP has gone a long way to address negative perceptions on the police—from portrayal in the movies as always late in responding to the crime up and doing away with degrading symbolisms being associated with the police.
He cited for instance a memorandum of agreement with the movie industry on the use of police uniforms in television shows and movies.
Past PNP leaders also repeatedly appealed to the parents not to use the police to scare their children, and even formulated policies to bring the police closer to the public.
Nartatez then urged the public to be mindful and respectful of all symbols of authority.
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