MANILA — Executive Secretary Ralph Recto challenged newly promoted Philippine National Police (PNP) generals on Thursday, November 12, to prioritize public safety and human rights, emphasizing that police officers must be trusted, accessible figures in every community.
Addressing the newly promoted officials, Recto stated that the public should experience the direct impact of police service through safer streets, prompt assistance, and strict adherence to citizen rights, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for the force.
“Isang pulis na hindi kinatatakutan kundi inaasahan,” Recto said, describing the ideal police force.
He added that hearing the phrase “Pulis po ako” should offer citizens a sense of security rather than apprehension.
Recto urged the officials to reward good performance, rectify errors, and ensure that individuals seeking help at police stations are treated with proper attention. He also underscored the importance of upholding suspects’ rights and due process during operations.
“Build the case. Make the arrest lawfully. Bring the accused before a court,” he said.
Highlighting law enforcement statistics, Recto noted a decrease of nearly 39,000 recorded crimes during the first 19 months of the Marcos administration compared to the preceding 19-month period. Furthermore, he reported a 32 percent decline in PNP focus crimes from July to October 2026 compared to the same months in 2025, pointing out that every crime prevented spares a family from harm.
He requested PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. to extend the government’s appreciation to officers securing local communities.
Turning to modern security challenges, Recto urged the generals to enhance personnel capabilities against tech-savvy criminals who exploit online platforms to victimize citizens and elude law enforcement.
He remarked that the true measure of their new ranks lies in the daily lived experiences of Filipinos, including safe neighborhood walks and prompt access to police assistance.
Reflecting on his legislative background, Recto mentioned past measures he backed as a senator to elevate police training, transparency, and recruitment—including placing the Philippine National Police Academy and the National Police Training Institute under direct PNP supervision, funding body-worn cameras for evidence collection and protection, and filing resolutions to optimize the police-to-population ratio to 1 officer per 500 residents.