The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) announced on Thursday that it has issued Office Order No. 2025-012, dated 2 June 2025, streamlining the process of summary dismissal proceedings for police administrative cases. The new directive mandates resolution of cases within sixty (60) working days from the filing of a complaint.
Signed by NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Atty. Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan, the order outlines a strict, day-specific timeline for each stage of the process — from initial evaluation, formal charges, and hearings, to final case resolution.
Atty. Calinisan said the overhaul reinforces NAPOLCOM’s mandate under Republic Act No. 6975, as amended by RA 8551, to ensure swift justice and maintain professional standards within the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“This is justice with urgency. By setting clear timelines and holding everyone accountable to them, we ensure that complaints against police officers are resolved promptly — without delay, without injustice,” Calinisan said.
“Our goal is simple but bold: no case shall drag on. We act fast, fair, and fearlessly,” he emphasized.
Key reforms under the new order include:
Complaint evaluation within one (1) working day
Pre-charge investigation initiated within two (2) working days
Counter-affidavit submission by respondents within five (5) working days
Investigation and draft charge submission within five (5) working days
Issuance of formal charges and assignment of hearing officer within one (1) working day each
Summons served within two (2) working days
Answer filed by respondent within seven (7) working days
Pre-hearing conference within three (3) working days
Position papers filed within seven (7) working days
Clarificatory hearing, if necessary, within two (2) working days
Investigation report submitted within seven (7) working days
NAPOLCOM En Banc decision within fourteen (14) working days
Calinisan said the reforms are intended to speed up internal disciplinary actions, restore public trust, and boost morale within the police force by ensuring timely and fair resolutions to administrative complaints.
The order takes effect immediately and remains in force pending the revision of NAPOLCOM Memorandum Circular No. 2016-002, which currently governs disciplinary rules and procedures of other police oversight bodies such as IAS, PLEB, RDs, and the CPNP.
Calinisan added that the initiative underscores NAPOLCOM’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and timeliness in administering justice within the police service.