The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a decisive crackdown on its own personnel, with four officers now facing potential dismissal for allegedly firing their guns to celebrate the New Year.
Officers Disarmed and Detained Across Regions
Acting PNP chief, Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., has ordered the immediate disarming and detention of three of the four implicated officers. The individuals under investigation include a police master sergeant stationed in Surigao del Sur, a police senior master sergeant based in Iloilo, and a patrolman from Parañaque City in Metro Manila.
A follow-up operation is actively underway to locate and arrest the fourth officer, a patrolman from Cagayan de Oro City, who remains at large. The regional directors of Caraga, Western Visayas, and the National Capital Region Police Office have been directed to carry out these orders.
Strict Warning from the Top Brass
In a stern message, Lt. Gen. Nartatez left no room for ambiguity regarding the consequences for the accused officers. "Once the investigation is completed and you are found liable, I will ensure that you are dismissed from the police service," he stated firmly.
This strong stance from the PNP leadership aligns with the directive from higher authorities. The police action directly follows orders from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to hold accountable anyone who compromises public safety.
A Firm Stand for Public Safety
The PNP's move underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards the dangerous tradition of celebratory gunfire, which poses a severe and often fatal risk to innocent civilians. The announcement, made in a news release on Friday, January 3, 2026, signals the institution's commitment to internal discipline and its mandate to protect the community.
By taking such firm action, the PNP aims to send a clear message that reckless behavior by its members will not be tolerated, especially during public celebrations where safety should be paramount.
