PNP Demands All Policemen Maintain Sound Body
All policemen, from generals to the lowest-ranking officers, must maintain a sound body that meets public standards, officials said on Tuesday, June 10. The Philippine National Police (PNP) stressed the importance of physical fitness as a reflection of discipline and professionalism.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo shared that National Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III firmly highlighted this policy. “As they say, a sound body, sound mind, thus the physical appearance of the police should already reflect discipline. That is what our Chief PNP wants,” Fajardo stated.
Strict Physical Fitness Tests Uphold Discipline
Torre, at 55 years old, reportedly can still perform 100 push-ups, setting a strong example for all personnel. The PNP has a strict policy: those who fail the physical fitness test twice will not qualify for promotion. This rule will be enforced rigorously.
“This will be very challenging to our personnel who have already gained extra weight but as the Chief PNP said, ‘I don’t care, I will not command what kind of exercise you need and if it needs to consult your doctors on the kind of exercises that you need but I have to see that you are exerting efforts to lose weight,’” Fajardo added.
Historical Efforts to Maintain Policemen’s Fitness
This is not the first time a PNP chief has pushed for policemen to maintain physical standards. Under former chiefs like Panfilo Lacson, policemen were required to keep a 34-inch waistline. Jesus Verzosa mandated climbing a 10-story building using stairs. Archie Gamboa introduced Body Mass Index standards, while Debold Sinas consulted fitness instructors to develop exercise routines.
Gen. Torre promised that all factors including age and height will be considered when designing exercise challenges. However, the ultimate goal remains: to have a body acceptable to the public.
Surprise Fitness Tests and Accountability
Fajardo warned that policemen should take this directive seriously. Gen. Torre might conduct surprise physical fitness tests, including push-ups. If a policeman fails a random test, the previous physical fitness data will be reviewed, and supervisors who approved a passing score without merit will be asked to explain.
“One thing is clear,” Fajardo said, “Torre will not interfere with how policemen lose weight, as medical conditions must be considered. But as a general rule, the Chief PNP said, ‘I want every policeman to be fit.'”
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