The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Friday that it is preparing its units and personnel for the deployment of new artificial intelligence(AI)-enabled body-worn cameras aimed at strengthening documentation, evidence preservation, and accountability during operations.

The initiative aligns with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to enhance the use of technology in law enforcement while maintaining public trust and transparency.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the updated technology will provide officers with a more reliable record of their field encounters and daily operations.

“The AI-enabled body cameras will enhance the PNP’s capability to document police operations with clearer and more reliable footage,” Nartatez said in a statement.

“This will help preserve evidence, support investigations, and promote greater accountability among our personnel,” he added.

During a House Committee on Appropriations briefing on the proposed budget for the DILG, Remulla confirmed that the PNP is procuring between 10,000 and 20,000 new AI-enabled units this year.

The procurement process has already been bid out, with plans to purchase additional cameras annually. The new units feature upgraded lenses and higher visual resolution optimized for AI processing.

Nartatez stressed that the expanded technology safeguards both citizens and law enforcement officers by creating an objective record of every interaction.

“This technology will protect not only the public but also our police officers by providing an objective record of what transpired during police encounters and operations,” Nartatez said.

He added that the PNP will ensure all personnel operate the devices in full compliance with existing laws and privacy guidelines.