Napolcom to resolve cases ASAP vs erring cops

MANILA, Philippines — The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has committed to resolve administrative cases against erring police officers within 60 days from the filing of complaints, in response to the directive of President Marcos and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to intensify efforts at cleansing the Philippine National Police.

Napolcom vice chairman and executive officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan made the announcement at a media forum on Friday at the Department of the Interior and Local Government central office.

“The slow pace of case resolution at Napolcom is no longer acceptable and can no longer continue. The public will no longer believe in us,” Calinisan said, stressing the urgency of restoring public trust in the police force.

He emphasized that the directive, although newly announced, is already being implemented, citing the dismissal of Patrolman Francis Steve Fontillas and the resolution of two long-standing cases that had been pending for 21 and 18 years, respectively.

He said an inventory of thousands of pending administrative cases is ongoing, with Napolcom targeting zero backlog by December 2025.

Drawing from his previous role as chairman and executive officer of the Quezon City People’s Law Enforcement Board, Calinisan maintained that the goal is both realistic and necessary.

“Under the leadership of Secretary Remulla, Napolcom’s promise in our time is the prompt resolution of cases,” he added.

While assuring that the welfare of the police remains a priority, Calinisan emphasized that there will be no tolerance for misconduct.

“This is not the reflection of who our police truly are. So for those behind these repeated incidents, prepare yourselves for Napolcom. Prepare yourselves for the disciplinary authorities because we will make an example out of you. Your good days are over,” he warned.

Calinisan also urged the public to report cases of abuse, saying that transforming the police organization requires accountability from all sectors of society.