Cops told not to use new ranks yet

FILE: The memorandum signed by Police Lieutenant General Pancratius Camilo Cascolan recalling all internal orders pertaining to the effective use of the new rank classification. (Contributed photo via PNA)

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said police officers have to stop using their new ranks and revert to their old ones in all forms of communication, pending the release of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 11200.

In a memorandum dated March 7, which was signed by PNP Lieutenant General Pancratius Camilo Cascolan, all internal orders pertaining to the effective use of the new rank classification had been recalled.

“This pertains to the directive to recall all memoranda already issued implementing the New PNP rank classification and/or those about to be disseminated. All communication shall reflect the old rank until the approval and effectivity of the implementing rules and regulations of RA No. 11200,” read the memorandum.

PNP spokesperson, Police Col. Bernard Banac, said the use of the new rank will be on hold pending the approval and release of the IRR, and the release of the abbreviation of the ranks.

“Hold in abeyance lang muna ‘yung paggamit namin internally, pending approval and release of IRR within 30 days, that will specify the policies, proper abbreviations, and their usage in written communications. But for the public and media, wala naman pagbabawal na gamitin ang new ranks as enumerated in the newly approved law, para sa pagtawag sa ating mga kapulisan (For the meantime, it is held in abeyance internally pending the approval and release of the IRR. The public and media may use the new ranks in addressing our police officers),” Banac said in message sent to reporters Thursday night.

The PNP also said there would be a formal announcement and ceremonial donning of the new rank classification once its implementation starts.

On February 8, President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed into law RA 11200, which standardizes the way PNP officers are called.

The new law also clarifies the command and responsibility in the PNP for effective and efficient supervision and control among its uniformed personnel.

Earlier, Banac, welcomed the President’s move, noting that it will improve police performance output and productivity. He added that the modified classification would also make it easier for the public to understand the police ranking.