Police Brig. Gen. Jovencio S. Badua, Jr., director of the Police Regional Office- 4B, warned tailoring shops and other businesses engaged in the manufacture and sale of police uniforms against making their products available to non-members of the police force.

Badua issued the warning following the controversy stirred by a civilian vlogger who used a police uniform allegedly in creating a content for his social media flowers.

The vlogger showed a photo of himself wearing the PNP’s ceremonial blue police uniform, which is a violation of the law on the illegal use of uniforms or insignia.

“The police uniform is a symbol of trust and selfless service to the people, which is why we must protect its integrity and ensure that those who misuse or falsely claim it are held accountable,” said Badua.

He said those who would be caught selling police uniforms and other accouterments could be held liable for violation of Executive Order No. 297 and may resulting business closure, confiscation of products, cancellation of permits, and administrative fines.

For civilians using police uniforms illegally, he said they could be held liable for violation of Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code which is punishable by up to four years imprisonment.

Earlier, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. warned the public, particularly content creators, against the unauthorized use of police uniforms and other insignia representing a law enforcer especially for social media content and other publicity stunt.

"We are taking this matter seriously, we are now conducting an investigation on this matter to determine accountability and to send a message that there are consequences for the unauthorized use of police uniforms," said Nartatez.

For his part, Badua said he already ordered the conduct of operations against illegal use and sale of police uniforms, particularly those impersonating legitimate law enforcers in Region 4B.

The region covers the provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan, or Mimaropa.

He said their focus is also on individuals who pose as police officers to extort money, scam residents, or intimidate vulnerable sectors.

“We are committed to protecting the good image of the PNP and the safety of our communities, which is why anyone who misuses the uniform or falsely claims to be a police officer will be held fully accountable under the law,” Badua said.

He also encouraged the public to immediately report any suspicious individuals wearing police uniforms or claiming to be PNP personnel through the nearest police station, or the official hotlines and verified social media pages of the regional office.

“Our communities are our strongest allies; when citizens stay engaged and share information with us, we can better protect everyone and prevent scams, harassment, and other crimes,” he said.