A tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed Monday by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to strengthen the rule of law, enhance police professionalism, and uphold the rights of every Filipino.

The MoA signing, held at the NAPOLCOM headquarters in Quezon City, was signed by IBP National President and Chairperson of the 27th Board of Governors, Atty. Allan G. Panolong; PNP DIDM Director P/Brig. Gen. Matthew Baccay, who represented PNP Acting Chief P/Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.; and NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Atty. Rafael Calinisan.

"This is just like retooling our policemen on national scale. From the recruits siguro, to prepare (them also) to be competent," Panolong told the Daily Tribune after the signing.

He added that the MoA will establish a strategic and enduring partnership that advances the rule of law, strengthens police professionalism, and safeguards the rights and welfare of both law enforcers and legal practitioners.

“The Parties recognize that effective law enforcement requires not only operational competence but also a deep and evolving understanding of legal principles, constitutional safeguards, and human rights standards,” Calinisan on the other hand said.

“It also seeks to institutionalize a proactive, holistic, and sustained legal education program for PNP personnel, designed to enhance their legal literacy, procedural acumen, and ethical awareness,” Calinisan added.

The parties’ unified goal is to resolve and empower law enforcers and legal professionals alike in the pursuit of justice, peace, and national development.