On February 23, 2026, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), led the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony in front of the PNP National Headquarters at Camp BGen Rafael T Crame, Quezon City, where he delivered a strong message to the entire police organization. In his address, he set the tone for the week by commending police personnel nationwide for their unwavering commitment to duty and underscoring the organization’s continuing drive toward operational excellence, integrity, and professionalism.
As PNP begins another week of service, Police General Nartatez expressed his appreciation to officers on the ground whose daily efforts safeguard communities and maintain public order. He emphasized that beyond statistics and reports are police officers working tirelessly, often under challenging conditions, to ensure peace and security across the country.
Highlighting key accomplishments from the previous week, the Chief cited the swift solving of a murder case in Binondo, Manila, through the immediate arrest of the suspects. In Cebu, coordinated operations resulted in the seizure of approximately Php138 Million worth of smuggled goods, delivering a significant blow to illicit trade networks. Meanwhile, at Mandaue Port, authorities dismantled an illegal fuel operation valued at Php20.5 Million, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals involved in the unlawful activity.
In the campaign against illegal drugs, PNP also intercepted approximately Php133 Million worth of illegal substances at Ninoy Aquino International Airport within a span of seven days. Police General Nartatez stressed that these figures are not merely numbers but concrete outcomes, products of coordination, intelligence-driven operations, discipline, and decisive leadership. According to him, such results are clear indicators of what professionalism within the organization can achieve.
The PNP Chief likewise commended the Special Action Force (SAF) team for its outstanding performance in the UAE SWAT Challenge held from February 7 to 11, 2026, in the United Arab Emirates. From placing 25th last year, the team improved significantly to 14th place this year, an achievement he attributed to rigorous preparation, discipline, and relentless training. He also recognized Police Major Inar Vic Florece for graduating at the top of his class during the International Police Exchange Program at the Abu Dhabi Police College, besting 51 other international officers from 35 countries. These accomplishments, he noted, demonstrate that Filipino police officers can compete and excel on the global stage.
While celebrating these milestones, Police General Nartatez also addressed internal challenges confronting the organization. He made it clear that the misconduct of a few will never define the PNP, but neither will it be tolerated. Every action of a police officer, he reminded the ranks, reflects on the entire institution. He urged personnel to protect the badge, the uniform, and most importantly, the trust of the Filipino people.
Looking ahead, the Chief discussed the expected public assemblies related to the so-called “Trillion Peso March,” which will coincide with the 40th Anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. He assured that deployments are already in place and that the PNP’s operational posture remains clear: to respect constitutional rights, ensure public safety, and enforce the law without bias. He directed all deployed personnel to remain professional, neutral, and disciplined, to exercise maximum tolerance, avoid unnecessary confrontation, and resist provocation. He emphasized that true strength in policing lies in restraint and sound judgment.
In concluding his message, the PNP Chief reminded personnel that the EDSA Anniversary symbolizes the country’s democratic institutions and adherence to the rule of law. As members of the Philippine National Police, officers must remain non-partisan, uphold the Constitution, and continue serving the people with integrity. He called on the entire organization to stay focused, sustain operational excellence, and consistently demonstrate that PNP is capable, accountable, and committed to genuine public service.
