The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Sunday reminded police personnel to uphold professionalism and avoid involvement in partisan politics, warning that those who do will face prosecution.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla emphasized that uniformed officers, particularly those members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), who engage in partisan activities will be held accountable and prosecuted. 

“I will not hesitate to have them charged and to make sure that the due process of law is observed. You have seen my record. I have a very low tolerance for malfeasance lalong-lalo na sa (especially in) PNP,” Remulla lamented. 

The DILG chief mentioned previous efforts against rogue members of the PNP tagged in the 990-kilo drug haul in Manila in 2022, warning he would exert the same disciplinary actions. 

“Yung mga kaso na 'yan ni-review ko kaagad at ngayon nakakulong na sila (I immediately reviewed those cases, and now they are in jail), so I will not hesitate,” he said.

In response, PNP chief PGen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the PNP has already been directed “to remain apolitical, impartial, and committed solely to maintaining peace and order” during elections.

“The PNP leadership does not and would never condone political partisanship within its ranks,” Marbil assured Remulla. 

Marbil also underscored the police force’s dedication to ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process this May. 

“The numbers speak for themselves. Our intensified operations are in full force and we will not let up. The PNP remains committed to safeguarding the electoral process by strictly enforcing the gun ban, neutralizing criminal activities, and preventing any attempts to disrupt the elections,” he said.

On the other hand, Remulla expressed full support for the PNP’s enforcement of the “Kontra Bigay” campaign, in coordination with the Commission on Elections. 

He said the campaign should also be parallel to DILG’s “Konta Tanggap” initiative to address issues of vote-buying during elections.