Napolcom backs proposed 57-year retirement age
The National Police Commission (Napolcom) expressed support for the proposed increase in the compulsory retirement age of uniformed personnel from 56 to 57, citing the value of experience and institutional knowledge in strengthening the country’s uniformed services.
Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan said during a Senate hearing that experienced personnel contribute valuable knowledge, leadership and practical skills gained through years of public service.
Retaining them would help sustain organizational continuity and allow senior personnel to guide and mentor younger officers, he said.
Calinisan explained that any extension of the compulsory retirement age must be accompanied by appropriate health assessments, physical fitness standards and personnel welfare measures to ensure that those who remain in service can continue performing their duties effectively.
Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, filed Senate Bill 2395 in August to raise the compulsory retirement age of Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel to 57.
The measure would allow those with less than a year remaining in service when it takes effect to retire at 56.
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Senate Bill 2396 proposes the same adjustment for Bureau of Jail Management and Penology and Bureau of Fire Protection personnel.
During a 23 October 2026 hearing of the Senate committee, representatives of the three uniformed services and Napolcom expressed support for the proposals, while the Civil Service Commission said it was generally supportive.
The agencies cited the opportunity to retain experienced personnel and give their leadership more time to implement planned reforms.
The PNP also said the proposal would align its retirement policy with that of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, which has a compulsory retirement age of 57.
The Department of Budget and Management deferred to Congress on the measures while finalizing its position paper. It projected initial savings of P10.74 billion in 2027 from deferred retirement and terminal leave benefits.