THE Philippine National Police headed by General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., yesterday reminded the public that the unauthorized use of police uniforms, insignia, or presenting oneself as a PNP officer is a serious criminal offense punishable under the Revised Penal Code.
“Alam natin, may ilan na nagkukunwaring pulis para sa kanilang pansariling kapakinabangan. Ito po ay hindi lamang labag sa batas, ito rin ay panganib sa ating mamamayan. Ang sinumang magtatangkang magsuot ng uniporme o magpanggap bilang miyembro ng PNP ay puwedeng makasuhan ayon sa batas,” said Gen. Nartatez.
The top cop issued the reminder in the wake of the controversy generated by a ‘vlogger’ wearing a police general’s uniform. The Police Regional Office 2 under Brigadier Gen. Antonio P. Marallag Jr. is currently investigating the incident.
According to PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tuaño, the PRO2, has sought the assistance of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 2 in determining the authenticity of the photograph showing a vlogger identified as Norman Mangusing, alias ‘Francis Leo Marcos’, in police uniform.
The official said that another vlogger posted the photo. “Hindi exemption ang pagigging vlogger because a police uniform is a symbol of authority,” Brig. Gen. Tuaño said.
Under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, unauthorized wearing of the PNP uniform or insignia carries a penalty of arresto mayor—ranging from one month and one day to six months.
Meanwhile, Article 177 punishes those who usurp official police functions under false pretenses with prision correccional in its minimum or medium period, or six months and one day to four years and two months imprisonment.
The PNP also reminded establishments that manufacturing, selling, or distributing police uniforms without proper authorization violates Executive Order No. 297. After due notice and hearing, violators may face closure of their business, confiscation of products, cancellation of licenses or permits, and administrative fines.
The PNP urged the public to report any suspicious activity or individuals misrepresenting themselves as police officers. By doing so, everyone helps protect communities from scams, fraud, and potential harm.
Napolcom to file raps vs blogger
The National Police Commission also sharply reacted to the controversial photo. Napolcom said yesterday it was considering filing a criminal case against vlogger Norman Mangusin for the illegal use of a police uniform.
Police Commissioner Atty. Rafael Vicente Calinisan said that Mangusin chose to make a mockery of the police uniform.
“We previously made a stern warning that the police uniform is not, and will never be, used as a costume. It will never be disrespected,” Calinisan said in a statement.
Mangusin, however, opted to ignore that advisory.
In a post, the vlogger, according to Calinisan, seemed to make “fun” out of a cop’s uniform.
In solidarity with the entire PNP, Calinisan said Napolcom will file criminal charges against Mangusin. By Alfred Dalizon and Joel dela Torre
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