The Philippine National Police (PNP) recently announced plans to hire 17,000 new police officers this year.
“The annual recruitment program has taken Philippine law enforcement to a higher level by closing the gap in the police-to-population ratio to within ideal limits set by law,” PNP officer-in-charge, Lt. General Archie Francisco Gamboa said. “We want the largest pool of applicants that we can muster.”
According to a PNP social media post, 10,000 slots were created as part of their regular annual recruitment quota, while an additional 7,000 spots were opened to replace law enforcement personnel who had retired, died, among other reasons for separation from the force.
Eligible candidates must be between 21 and 30 years old, a citizen of the Philippines, of good moral character, pass various physical tests, possess a formal baccalaureate degree from a recognized learning institution, pass various police examinations, must not have been dishonorably discharged from the military or dismissed from a civilian post, not convicted of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude, among other physical requirements.
Last week, following the New Year’s observance, Gamboa, expressed optimism for 2020.
“Each new year, we have before us a brand new book containing 365 blank pages,” he said. “Let us fill them with new stories of bravery, good deeds, accomplishments, and selfless service.”
“May the year of 2020 give us a renewal of strength,” the PNP official added./WDJ