PNP probes photo of vlogger in cop uniform

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan, Philippine News Agency

VLOGGER IN HOT WATER. Philippine National Police information chief and spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño points to a photo of a vlogger wearing a police uniform during a press briefing at Camp Crame on Wednesday (Feb. 11, 2026). He said the vlogger could be charged with violation of Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes the illegal use of uniforms and insignia. (Photo: PNA/Facebook)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating a photo circulating online showing a vlogger wearing a police uniform.

In a press briefing in Camp Crame on Wednesday, PNP information chief and spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the vlogger could be charged for violation of Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code.

The article penalizes unauthorized wearing of PNP uniform or insignia with imprisonment of up to six months.

“Base sa initial na investigation na lumalabas ng PRO (Police Regional Office) 2, ang liability ay nasa nagsuot ng uniporme. Ang posibleng violation niya ay Revised Penal Code Article 179, ito ay ang illegal use of uniforms and insignias (Based on the initial investigation by PRO 2, the liability falls on the person wearing the uniform. The possible violation is under Revised Penal Code Article 179, which is about the illegal use of uniforms and insignias),” Tuaño said.

Authorities are also tracing where the vlogger obtained the uniform.

Under Executive Order No. 297, establishments that illegally manufacture or sell police uniforms may face closure, confiscation of products, license cancellation and fines.

The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), meanwhile, is also looking into the incident “in solidarity with the PNP,” according to NAPOLCOM Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan

“I am directing our Legal Affairs Service (LAS) and our Inspection Monitoring and Investigation Service (IMIS) to coordinate with the PNP to file the appropriate charges and put a stop to this circus,” Calinisan said in a statement.

Aside from unauthorized use of police uniforms, the PNP also reminded the public that presenting oneself as a police officer is a serious criminal offense punishable under the Revised Penal Code.

Tuaño urged the public to report individuals misrepresenting themselves as police officers. By doing so, everyone helps protect communities from scams, fraud, and potential harm.