PNP sets rules on tattoos for personnel, aspiring cops

She said those cops with existing tattoos are required to execute an affidavit, declaring their tattoos which are not visible. (Pexels Photo)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) would regulate the bearing and sporting of tattoos for its personnel and those looking to join the force.

In a press conference at Camp Crame, Quezon City, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said these rules are stipulated in Memorandum Circular 2024-023 dated March 19, which covers both uniformed and non-uniformed personnel.

She said PNP personnel must have their “visible” tattoos removed.

“For some sinasabing creative art into (they say it is creative art), expression of oneself belief sa artistic side po nila (on their artistic side) but in every right, there are boundaries. Dito ay nasa loob tayo ng uniformed service kasi pangit na naka uniform ang pulis natin na tadtad ng tattoo (We belong to the uniformed service and it does not look good if police in uniform are full of tattoos),” Fajardo told reporters.

She said those cops with existing tattoos are required to execute an affidavit, declaring their tattoos which are not visible.

They should also state in their affidavit they cannot have additional tattoos, especially if these are visible.

The policy does not cover aesthetic tattoos such as but not limited to eyebrows, eyeliner or lips, Fajardo said.

The following tattoos are considered unauthorized:

–extremist tattoos
–ethnically or religiously discriminatory and offensive tattoos
–indecent tattoos
–racist tattoos
–sexist tattoos
–tattoos associated with prohibited or unauthorized groups

Cops who refuse to follow the policy will face administrative charges.

“They will face sanction under this particular memorandum. They will be subjected to pre-charge investigation,” Fajardo said.

She said aspiring police officers are also not allowed to have tattoos at all. Those who have existing tattoos will be given three months to have these removed.

“Remember, when you enter the PNP, you are expected na sumunod ka sa (to follow the) rules and regulations. If you cannot follow the regulations then maluwag po ang pinto ng PNP para kayo ay mag (the PNP’s door is wide enough for you to) resign. Hindi naman po sapilitan ang mag stay sa isang (It is not mandatory to stay in an) organization being governed by strict regulations,” she said.

She said the policy would take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette.