PNP Chief Stresses Police Visibility in Communities
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has firmly instructed police commanders not to “hide in their offices” but to actively engage with the community. He emphasized the importance of officers being visible and accessible to the public.
This directive came following a command conference aimed at improving the PNP’s five-minute response time target and optimizing officer deployment. The key phrase “don’t hide in offices” encapsulates the chief’s call for more proactive policing.
“Dapat nasa labas ang ating mga pulis at hindi nakatago sa opisina. The community must see you, feel your presence, and rely on your swift response,” Torre said. (Our police officers should be outside and not hiding in their offices. The community must see you, feel your presence, and rely on your swift response.)
He further underscored, “If you are not on the streets responding in five minutes, you are not doing your job.”
Ensuring Equipment Readiness for Swift Response
In addition to urging more visible policing, the PNP chief directed regional communications and electronics units to maintain and ensure the functionality of radios and other essential equipment. This move aims to support officers in meeting their response goals efficiently.
During the conference, simulation exercises were conducted involving ten units from regional police offices across Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Central Visayas, and the Davao Region. These drills tested the capability of units to meet the critical five-minute response time target.
Accountability Measures for Response Failures
Last Monday, Gen. Torre relieved eight police chiefs in Metro Manila for failing to meet the five-minute response standard. This assertive action highlights the PNP’s commitment to improving public safety through accountability and rapid intervention.
The chief’s message is clear: police must step out of their offices, be present in the community, and respond swiftly to calls for help. Such visibility and promptness are crucial in strengthening public trust and enhancing law enforcement effectiveness.
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