Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos said over the weekend that the evaluation and processing of promotions for third-level police officers will now be completed within 30 days upon receipt of complete documentary requirements.

 The National Police Commission, or Napolcom, issued Resolution 2023-1704, which prescribes a 30-day timeline to complete the processing of recommendations for the promotion of police officers from the rank of police colonel to lieutenant general.

 Abalos, who is the concurrent ex-officio chairperson of Napolcom, said there is a need to impose a strict timeline to promote efficiency and transparency and avoid partiality in processing the recommendations for promotion of the third-level officers.

He said that as police officers ensure the safety of the people, there is also a need to repay their service with the government taking care of their promotions.

 Section 14(e) of Republic Act 6975, as amended, authorizes Napolcom to develop policies on the promotion of members of the Philippine National Police.

 The said NAPOLCOM Resolution also states that only the Office of the PNP Chief and its designated focal person or office shall be provided with access to the information and status of recommendations for pending PNP promotions.

 The concerned PNP focal person or office is also advised to utilize such information with the utmost confidentiality under RA 0173, or the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

 After Napolcom’s evaluation and also the confirmation of the Civil Service Commission, the promotional folders and documents will then be forwarded to the Office of the Executive Secretary before the approval of the President.