Lawmaker suggests to admit K-12 grads at PNP

Philippine National Police Headquarters / Wikipedia Photo

MANILA – A lawmaker is seeking approval to permit K-12 graduates to be admitted to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Pampanga Rep. Joseller “Yeng” Guiao wrote House Bill 4967 or “An act broadening the opportunities by allowing graduates of K-12 Enhanced Education Program entry in the Philippine National Police, amending for the purpose the PNP law, RA (Republic Act) 6975 as amended by RA 8551”.

Currently, the law states that only applicants with a formal baccalaureate degree from a recognized institution of learning are allowed to enter PNP.

“Less than half of all high school graduates finish college or earn a baccalaureate degree due to financial constraints. Graduates of the K-12 Program, however, were assured that they stand a chance even without a college degree,” Guiao said.

According to Guiao, the K-12 Enhanced Program aims to counteract the increasing unemployment in the country by providing students with basic skills that will allow them to enter the workforce.

The proposed bill states that K-12 graduates may be allowed to enter PNP upon passing all examinations by PNP or National Police Commission and follow the general qualifications which include: at least one meter and sixty-two centimeters in height for male and one meter and fifty-seven centimeters for female; weight – not more or less than five kilograms from the standard weight corresponding to his or her height, age, and sex; and age – for new applicants, must not be less than 21 nor more than 30 years old.

The bill is now awaiting decision at the Committee on Public Order and Safety.