The Philippine National Police (PNP) has called on the public to uphold respect for official police uniforms following backlash over a Halloween costume incident in Makati City, where a partygoer was seen wearing a modified version of the PNP attire.

In a statement on Monday, Acting PNP Chief P/LtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., reminded the public that the police uniform is “a symbol of service, sacrifice, and integrity” and should never be used as a costume or novelty outfit.

“The PNP uniform symbolizes service, sacrifice, and integrity. Ginagamit natin ito bilang tanda ng ating tungkulin na maglingkod sa bayan kaya hindi ito dapat gawing costume o pantawid-gimik lang (We use this as a symbol of our duty to serve the nation, so it should not be treated as just a costume or a gimmick),” Nartatez said.

The PNP’s top official’s reminder came after National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan raised concerns over photos circulating online of a private individual who reportedly cut the sleeves off a PNP uniform to wear it as a Halloween costume.

“This use of PNP uniform as a Halloween costume is total disrespect for our men in uniform,” Calinisan wrote in a Facebook post.

The partygoer later apologized on his social media account, tagging Calinisan, who then shared the post as well.

Nartatez also acknowledged the partygoer’s public apology but said the controversy should serve as a learning opportunity for all.

“We appreciate the apology and urged everyone to take this issue as a learning opportunity. The uniform represents the trust and responsibility vested in our police officers, it should always be treated with respect,” he said.

Meanwhile, Nartatez has ordered its Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to monitor online platforms and coordinate with e-commerce sites to remove unauthorized listings that sell or distribute police uniforms or their imitations.

“We remind the public that unauthorized use of the PNP uniform is punishable by law. Hindi ito laruan at hindi ito dapat gamitin sa mga okasyong pampatawa o kasuotan lang,” Nartatez warned.

The PNP reiterated that the proper regard for uniforms and symbols of authority reflects the public’s respect for the institutions they represent.

“We urge everyone to be mindful and respectful of all symbols of authority,” the PNP chief added.

Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code addresses the unlawful use of uniforms or insignia, which includes the unauthorized wearing of an official uniform by anyone who is not a member of the PNP.