Press Release
December 15, 2016

Bam files bill to clean up police ranks

A senator wants to strengthen the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to instill better discipline and performance among policemen as they spearhead the fight against widespread proliferation of illegal drugs and other crimes.

"It is of utmost importance to ensure that all members of the PNP Police clamp down on crime and corruption while fully abiding by the law and respecting basic human rights," Sen. Bam Aquino said in Senate Bill No. 1285 or the PNP Internal Affairs Service Modernization Act.

Sen. Bam pointed out that the recent spate of alleged extrajudicial killings, including that of former Albuera Mayor Espinosa, exposes a crack in the system with the police themselves are implicated in cases of corruption, violence and illegal drug trade.

"This reveals the need for more stringent measures within the police force to ensure that they, first and foremost, live by the rule of law," said Sen. Bam.

The bill was endorsed by the IAS and was subsequently filed by Sen. Aquino to help the PNP's efforts to get rid of bad eggs in the organization.

The measure strengthens the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), with provisions for autonomy and independence in its administration and operations.

It mandates an IAS organization to instill discipline and enhance the performance of personnel and units of the Philippine National Police at all levels of its command.

"The bill expands the motu-propio investigation powers of the IAS to cover all acts and omissions by PNP officers which might discredit them or hinder them from rendering their services effectively," said Sen. Bam.

In addition, the measure mandates the prioritization of IAS functions, which promote character building, and carry out inspections, audits, intelligence operations and rehabilitation among officers.

By increasing the authority and mandate of the IAS within every branch of the PNP, Sen. Bam is convinced police will better protect the public and honor their duties.

"Now more than ever, it is important to maintain the integrity of the PNP and promote maximum efficacy in enforcing the law," Sen. Bam said, adding that good governance must start from the law enforcers themselves and we must create all the necessary measures to help our police force succeed.

In a recent Senate hearing, Sen. Bam expressed support behind the efforts of the current PNP leadership in cleaning its ranks from corrupt policemen, particularly those involved in illegal drugs.

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