President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday called for integrity, discipline and a “zero-tolerance” stance against corruption and human rights abuses as he addressed graduates of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 2026.
Speaking at the 47th commencement exercises in Cavite, Mr. Marcos told the new police officers they must help restore and strengthen public trust in law enforcement.
“While the nation’s trust in the police force has climbed in these last years, there is still room for improvement,” the President said, noting that some Filipinos continue to harbor doubts about the police.
“Our security is weakened when the hands sworn to protect are tainted,” he added.
The President reiterated his directive to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to maintain a visible presence in communities and uphold disciplined conduct, including expanding the “Cops on the Beat” program.
He also instructed the PNP and the National Police Commission to strictly enforce a zero-tolerance policy against wrongdoing.
“There is no room in this profession for those who bend or break the law,” President Marcos said, adding that erring officers must face prompt and objective investigations.
The President said thousands of investigations into police personnel have already been conducted, resulting in disciplinary actions, as part of broader efforts to improve accountability and transparency within the force.
He emphasized the need to bridge gaps between the police and the public through regular community engagement, noting that trust can be rebuilt through visibility, professionalism, and fairness in enforcing the law.
The commander-in-chief also cited nationwide “moral recovery sessions” conducted within the police ranks to strengthen ethical and spiritual foundations.
“Ang tunay na lakas ng ating kapulisan ay nasa kalinisan ng inyong dangal at prinsipyo,” he said.
(The true strength of our police force lies in the purity of your honor and principles.)
Addressing the graduates, Mr. Marcos urged them to serve as “guardians of peace” and help cleanse the ranks of misconduct.
“Help to cleanse your ranks so that wrongdoings of a few will not destroy the reputation that you have worked so hard to achieve,” he said.
He reminded the new officers that their oath is to the Republic and the Filipino people, urging them to set aside personal interests in the performance of their duties.
President Marcos also pointed to global conflicts as a reminder of the fragility of peace and order, underscoring the role of law enforcement in maintaining stability.
The “Silang Paglaom” Class of 2026 formally joined the ranks of the national police force following their graduation.
