The proposed P700-million allocation for the recruitment of 2,000 new patrolmen and patrolwomen will help address personnel gaps and strengthen police presence in communities, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Monday.

“Every police officer counts in our mandate to serve and protect our people. And the recruitment of more policemen means more manpower to secure streets and communities, enforce the law and quickly respond to emergencies and calls for assistance,” Nartatez said.

The Department of Budget and Management said the proposed 2027 national budget includes funding for the additional police personnel to fill existing vacancies and help achieve the desired population-to-police ratio.

“If we can add more personnel, police visibility and crime deterrence will improve,” Nartatez said. “This can translate to a more peaceful, safe and orderly society.”

Nartatez said the recruitment aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to strengthen the police force by addressing manpower shortages and improving police visibility.