THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has issued a stern reminder to all Metro Manila police personnel emphasizing that public service must remain their foremost priority.
The directive follows recent public complaints concerning an alleged birthday celebration inside a police station, where officers were reportedly singing while citizens were left waiting for essential police clearance services.
NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano acknowledged that personnel occasionally celebrate personal milestones with colleagues.
However, he stressed that personal activities must never override official duties or disrupt the delivery of prompt public assistance.
“The people come first. Our uniform is a commitment to serve, and that commitment does not stop because there is a personal celebration. If there are citizens waiting for our services, we must attend to them first,” Abrahano stated.
To prevent similar incidents, Abrahano directed all unit commanders and supervisors to ensure that frontline desks remain fully operational and that personnel assigned to public-facing roles strictly stay at their posts.
He reminded supervisors that accountability starts from the top, holding them responsible for maintaining strict internal discipline and addressing conduct that erodes public trust.
The NCRPO warned that neglecting public duty without valid justification can lead to administrative charges such as neglect of duty or non-feasance.
Furthermore, improper performance of lawful obligations may constitute an irregularity in duty.
Under existing Philippine National Police (PNP) regulations, substantiated violations are subject to formal investigation and due process, with administrative penalties ranging from suspension and demotion to forced resignation or dismissal from the service.
The regional office assured the public that all reported incidents will be thoroughly evaluated and investigated.
Concluding his directive, Abrahano urged officers to honor the integrity of their uniforms, reminding them that every minute in service must be dedicated entirely to protecting and serving the public.
