The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has warned aspiring police officers that reckless driving and disregard for traffic regulations could jeopardize their future careers in law enforcement. NAPOLCOM Vice Chairman and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan issued the warning after seeing social media posts showing individuals wearing criminology intern shirts allegedly riding motorcycles without helmets and violating road safety rules. Calinisan said the commission would seek to identify those involved and could refuse to process their applications for police service or allow them to take NAPOLCOM examinations, emphasizing that individuals aspiring to enforce the law must first demonstrate respect for it.
In a Facebook statement, Calinisan urged the public to submit photographs and videos of suspected violations so the commission could review the incidents and identify the individuals involved. He also called on colleges and universities offering criminology programs to strengthen student discipline, improve their curricula, and address misconduct before graduates enter the police recruitment process. The official criticized institutions that prioritize producing graduates without adequately developing the character and professionalism expected of future law enforcers. His remarks form part of a broader push to improve accountability and standards among prospective members of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The warning raises questions about how traffic offenses and other disciplinary concerns should be considered when assessing applicants for public service. While Calinisan has expressed his intention to prevent habitual violators from entering the PNP, NAPOLCOM has not publicly confirmed a new blanket disqualification rule based solely on photographs or social media reports. Any formal recruitment restriction would need to follow applicable eligibility rules and appropriate verification procedures. For aspiring officers, the issue underscores a basic expectation of police service: those seeking authority to enforce public safety regulations should demonstrate responsible conduct long before receiving a badge.
Image from NAPOLCOM