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MODULE 4
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
IN LAW ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION

INTRODUCTION

Professional conduct and ethical standards and a high degree of

honesty are more essential for officers and members of Philippine
National Police (PNP) than for any member of the society. This is so,
because they are entrusted with the enforcement of the rules,
regulations and ordinances created by City/Municipality and the laws
of the land created by the Congress that guide the conduct of
society. A policemen’s violation or infraction thereof, or his failure to
enforce it, dishonor the law and the authority he represents.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this lesson, the learner should be able to:
1. appraise and evaluate the importance of ethics in the Philippine National Police;
2. articulate the five pillars towards an ethical PNP members;
3. memorize the canons of the police ethics and the Professional Police
Principles;
4. enumerate the Tenets of Police Discipline
5. recite the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.
6. discuss the different ethical dilemmas in the law enforcement service such as
corruption, graft and the like.

MOTIVATION

TWO SMALL WORDS

-Credit to the owner
There are Two Words that when put together mean many different things to
many different people. Two Words that can put smiles on people’s faces or anxiety in
their hearts. Two Words that may strike hatred in some and love in others. Two Words
that are more than just words.

They are a title, an occupation and a career. Better yet, they are two words that
describe a lifestyle. A lifestyle like no other for the men and women who choose to
place a badge on their chest and promise to serve and protect.

A lifestyle that may require these persons to save, in a split second, someone’s
life while risking their own. A lifestyle that makes these persons face good and bad
every single day that others don’t see. A lifestyle that asks these persons to wake up
every morning without the assurance they will come home that night. Two words mean
all that. Two words that should forever be remembered. These two small words are
protect and serve.

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_________ __________.

MODULE 4 LESSON NOTES

DEFINITION OF TERMS

 Police Ethics- It is the practical science that treats the principle of human
morality and duty as applied to law enforcement.
 Moonlighting- An act of a member of the PNP pursuing or following any calling
or occupation, or the act of engaging in any business, which includes but not
limited to all activities, jobs, work, and similar functions, performed, engaged in or
undertaking by him, in or off duty hours with or without compensation, which is
inconsistent or incompatible with the PNP duties or functions. Such as a bouncer,
security guard, driver, bodyguard, confidential agent, watchman and any other
occupations of similar nature, in any enterprise or establishment, public or
private, which will prejudice the interest of law enforcement and public safety.
 Ethical standard – it refers to the set of conducts and behavior governing a
group, a class or organization.
 Police customs and social decorum – a set of norms and standards practiced
by members during social and other functions.
 Nonfeasance/Neglect of Duty- It is the omission of some act, which ought to be
performed. It is the omission or refusal without sufficient excuse, to perform an
act or duty, which as a peace officer’s legal obligation to perform.
 Misfeasance/Irregularities in the Performance of Duty- It is the improper
performance of some act which might lawfully be done.
 Malfeasance- It is the performance of some act which ought not to be done. It is
the doing either through ignorance, inattention or malice, of that which the officer
had no legal right to do at all, as when he acts without any authority whatsoever,
or exceeds, ignores, or abuses his powers.
 Incompetency- It is the manifest lack of adequate ability and fitness for the
satisfactory performance of police duties. This has reference to any physical and
intellectual quality, the lack of which substantially incapacitates one to perform
the duties of peace officers.
 Oppression- Imports an act of cruelty, severity, unlawful execution, or excessive
use of authority.
 Dishonesty- It is the concealment or distortion of truth in a manner of a fact
relevant to one’s office or connected with the performance of his duties.
 Disloyalty to the Government- Consist of abandonment or renunciation of
one’s loyalty to the Government of the Philippines, or advocating the overthrow of
the government.
 Public Official- Includes elective and appointive officials and employees,
permanent or temporary, whether in the career or non-career service, including

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military and police personnel, whether or not they receive compensation or not,
regardless of amount.
 Public Officer or Employee- It means any person holding any public office or
employment by virtue of an appointment, election or contract, and any person
holding any office or employment, by appointment or contract in any state-owned
or controlled corporation.
 Gift- It refers to the thing or right disposed gratuitously, or any act of liberality in
favor of another who accepts it, and shall include a simulated sale or ostensibly
onerous disposition thereof. It shall not include an unsolicited gift of nominal or
insignificant value not given in anticipation of, or in exchange for a favor.

ETHICS IN THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP)

The PNP Professional Conduct and Ethical
Standard are based from existing laws covering public
servants as embodied in the Constitution, Revised
Penal Code, RA 6713 (The Code of Conduct and
Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees),
and other related statutes. The ethical conduct and
standard of the PNP is further enhanced to fit in their
nature of their creation as embodied in the Constitution
which is civilian in nature but military in manner .
Source: https://google.com

FIVE PILLARS TOWARDS AN ETHICAL PNP MEMBER

1. Background of the applicants – this includes the qualification like educational
attainment and morality.
2. Type of training – strengthening the behavior of the selected applicant is
believed to be the objective of the PNP training.
3. Response to training – trainees’ obedience to legal orders is indispensable in
undergoing the training.
4. Determination – trainees’ determination to pursue the required training.
5. Ability to rise when fall – It is but natural to fail but what matter is the ability to
rise especially when put in hot water. Facing the consequences of our action is a
sign of maturity.

CANNONS OF POLICE ETHICS

1. Primordial (start) Police Responsibility - The primary objective of police is the
prevention of crime.

2. Limitation of Police Authority- As an upholder of the law, policemen must know

the limitation in enforcing the law, thus:
a. He must be aware of the limitations which the people, through law, have
placed him.
b. He must recognize the center of the democratic system of government,
which gives person or group of persons, absolute power.

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c. He must ensure that he does not pervert its true character.

3. Knowledge of the Law and other Responsibility - The policeman shall

assiduously apply himself to the principles of the laws, which he is sworn to
apply.
a. He will make certain of his responsibilities in the particular field of
enforcement, seeking aid of his superior in matters technically or in
principles not clear to him
b. He shall make special effort to fully understand his relationship with law
enforcement agencies, particularly on matters of jurisdiction, both
geographically and substantively.

4. Use of Proper Means to Obtain Proper Ends

a. The policeman shall be mindful of his responsibility to have strict
selection of methods in discharging the duty of his office.
b. Violation of law or public safety and property on the part of the officer are
intrinsically wrong. They are self-defeating if they instill in the public mind.
c. The employment of Illegal methods, no matter how worthy the end, is
certain to encourage disrespect for the law and its officers, If the law is to
be honored, it must first be honored by those who enforce it.
d. It is the proper performance of duty not the nobleness of the objective or
mission which should guide every police officer.

5. Cooperation with Public Officials

a. The policeman shall cooperate fully with other public officials in the
performance or authorized duties, regardless of party affiliation or
personal prejudices.
b. He shall be meticulous in law, however, in assuring himself as property,
under the law, such actions shall guard against the use of his office or
person whether knowingly or in any improper or illegal action.

6. Proper Conduct and Behavior

a. The policeman shall be mindful of his special identification by the public
as an upholder of law.
b. The community and the service require that the policeman leads the life
of decent and honorable person, following the career of policeman gives
no special pre-requisite.
c. being a law enforcement officer is a noble profession, it follows that
every law enforcer must think, act and speak with decency and
appropriately.

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7. Conduct towards the Community

a. The policeman shall be mindful of his responsibility to the
community
b. He shall deal with individuals of the community in the manner calculated
to instill respect for its law.
c. He shall conduct his official life in a manner that will inspire confidence
and trust.
d. He will do neither personal preference nor prejudice but rather a duly
appointed officer of the law discharging his sworn obligation.

8. Conduct in Arresting Law Violator

a. Policeman shall use his powers to arrest in accordance with the law and
with due regard to the rights of the citizen concerned.
b. He shall, at all times, have a clear appreciation of his responsibilities and
limitation regarding the detention of the accused.
c. He shall conduct himself in such a manner as will minimize the possibility
of having to use force.
d. He shall cultivate a dedication to the people and the equitable upholding
of the law whether in the handling of the accused or law-abiding citizen.

9. Firmness in Refusing Gifts or Favors

a. Policeman representing the government bears heavy responsibility of
maintaining, in his conduct, the honor and integrity of all government
institution.
b. He shall guard against placing himself in a Position in which the public
can reasonably assume that special consideration is being given.
c. He shall be firm in refusing gifts, favors or gratitude, large or small, which
can be public mind, be interpreted as capable of influencing his judgment
in the discharge of his duties.

10. Attitude towards Police Profession

a. Policeman shall regard the best possible of his duties as a public trust
and recognize his responsibilities as a public servant.
b. He shall strive to make the best possible application of science to the
selection of the crime and in the field of human relation.
c. He shall strive for effecting leadership and public influence in matters
affecting public safety.
d. He shall appreciate the importance and responsibility of his office and
hold police work to be an honorable profession rendering valuable service
to his community.
e. Through study and experience, a police officer can acquire the high level
of knowledge and competence that is essential for the efficient and
effective performance of duty. The acquisition of knowledge is a never-

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ending process of personal and professional development that should be

pursued constantly.

11. Impartial Presentation of Evidence

a. Policeman shall be concerned equally in the prosecution of the accused
or for the defense of the innocent
b. He shall ascertain what kind of evidence and shall present such evidence
impartially and without malice.
c. He shall ignore social, political and all other distinction among the person
involved, strengthening the tradition of reliability and integrity of an
officer’s word.

PROFESSIONAL POLICE PRINCIPLE

1. Prevention of crime and disorder
2. Cooperation of community
3. Unreasonable force reduces community cooperation
4. Use of Reasonable Force When Persuasion Is Not Sufficient
5. Impartial Enforcement of Laws
6. The Community Are the Police
7. Police Should Not Usurp Judicial Powers
8. Reduction of Crime and Disorder
9. Rule of Enforcement Impartially Observed
10. Police Discretion

TENETS OF DISCIPLINE
All policemen at all levels shall adhere to the eight tenets of discipline, which
include the following:
1. One of the first signs of discipline is the stage of orderliness and cleanliness of
the policeman’s place or work. If a police station is unkept, people cannot expect
the kind of positive responds to their needs.
2. All police actions must be characterized by courtesy and discipline.
3. All objectives of the PNP must always be for the Public interest and not private
interest. The people must feel that they are welcome to approach any member of
the PNP for assistance.
4. All citizens must be treated with dignity and respect.
5. All police actions must be in accordance with the law. Respect for human rights
and other laws of the land must be primordial concern in the exercise of Police
duties.
6. Basic police service must be rendered, equitably for all citizens and must not give
in exchange for any favor, reward or condition.
7. Involvement of police personnel in syndicated crime particularly illegal gambling
must not be tolerated.

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8. There is no substitute for leadership by example. Police Commanders, as model

of public service, must show proper behavior not only to their subordinates but
also to the people.

LAW ENFORCEMENT CODE OF ETHICS

As a law enforcement officer, my

fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to
safeguard life and property; to protect the
innocent against deception, weak against
oppression or intimidation and the peaceful
against violence or disorder: and to respect the
constitutional rights of all men, liberty, equality
and justice.

I will keep my private life unsullied as an

example to all; maintain courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn or ridicule;
develop self-restraint and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others. Honest in
thought and in deed both my personal and official life. I will be exemplary in obeying the
laws of the land and regulations of my organization. Whatever I see or hear of a
confidential in nature or is confided to me in my official capacity will be kept ever secret
unless revelation is necessary in the performance of my duty.

I will never act officiously or permit personal feelings, prejudices, animosities or

friendship to influence my decision; with no compromise for crime and with relentless
prosecution of criminals. I will enforce the law courteously and appropriately without fear
or favor, malice or ill will, never employing unnecessary force or violence and never
accepting gratuities in return.

I recognize the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith and I accept it as a

Public trust to be held so long as I am true to the ethics of police service. I will never
engage in acts of corruption or bribery, nor will I condone such acts by other police
officers. I will cooperate with all legally authorized agencies and their representatives in
the pursuit of Justice.

I know that I alone is responsible for my own standard or professional

performance and will take every reasonable opportunity to enhance and Improve my
level of knowledge and competence. I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives
and ideals, dedicating myself before God and my chosen profession…. Law
Enforcement.

WHO IS A FILIPINO POLICEMAN?

 A Filipino policeman is a protector
and a friend of the people.
 His badge is the symbol of the
citizen’s faith and trust, his uniform a mirror of
decorum and integrity.

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 His whole human person an oblation of enduring love for homeland,

fellowmen and God.

Photo from Philippine National Police Facebook

 A Filipino policeman emulates the valor of Lapu-lapu, serenity of Rizal, the leadership
of Aguinaldo, the courage of Bonifacio, the idealism of Del Pilar, the wisdom of Mabini
and the fortitude of Gomez, Burgos and Zamora.
 A Filipino policeman has oath for his republic to uphold: to defend the constitution,
honor the flag, obey the laws and duly constituted authorities. He has covenant with
his people to comply: to safeguard and protect them even beyond the call of duty.
And he has a legacy for his family to fulfill: to bequeath unto them the one and only
treasure of his life – an unblemished name.

The Policeman and his Badge

Pointedly enough, it is precisely upon grounds of reliability

and unreliability, fidelity or infidelity in the performance of his
duties that the badge of a policeman assumes paramount
significance.

This is because the badge could either be the symbol of

the citizen’s faith and trust in the policeman or the harbinger of
their contempt and derision for him, all depending upon efficiency
or inefficiency in the execution of the policeman’s task or
mission.

But whatever it may be, the salient point remains that the
policeman’s badge stands out as the embodiment of his entire personality, both as a
citizen and a public servant, yes, a badge that beckons the policeman to commit himself
to the democratic way of life and, even more, to maintain the principle of public
accountability.

Furthermore, the badge flashes incessantly to the mind and heart of the
policeman his inescapable concern, commitment and obligation to uphold at all times the
constitution and be loyal to his country, people and organization over and above loyalty
to any other person or organization.

The Policeman and his Uniform

The gestures and attitudes of internalizing and externalizing could

aptly project to the fore the fierce relevance and significance of the uniform
of the policeman.

This is because what a policeman has internalized or ingested

in terms of discipline, conduct, insight and decorum is externalized or
unfolded by his uniform on points of among others, physical appearance,
social graces, professional bearing, and personal comportment.

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More importantly, the uniform be speaks not only of the authority and
prerogatives of the peace keeper and law enforcer donning or wearing such uniform but,
equally worthwhile, the intellectual, moral and spiritual cast and mold of the person
inside that uniform. Just as what abounds in the heart is spoken by the mouth, so what
values and virtues are acquired and ingested, or not ingested and acquired, as the case
may be, are bound to have a repercussion or reflection on his uniform.

If a policeman is neglectful or remiss in his interior breeding, upbringing, and

posturing, there surges the imminent and potential likelihood that such shortcomings
would find shape and form in his untidy, sloppy and repulsive uniform.

Indeed, a well-meaning and disciplined member of the force realizes without

being told that the citizenry looks upon and discerns the policeman as distinctively a man
among gentlemen and a gentleman among men, a circumstance and factor that prompts
such citizenry to hail as a gratifying sight when the men and women in the police service
wear their uniform properly wherever they may be.

The Policeman and his Oath

In raising their hand in solemn

attestation and affirmation of their oath,
our new breed of peace keepers and
law enforcers, imbued and invigorated
as they are with their collateral concern
and commitment to socio-economic
development and nation-building, have
plunged themselves, in consortium with
the other relevant agencies and
instrumentalities of the Republic, into a
Photo from Mindanao Daily Mirror
vast battlefield on which to wage
constructive wars.

It is with greater relevance to have to point out just the same the sacrificial
implication of the oath engendering a beatific irony, if we are to consider the fact that
while on one hand the member of the police service is impliedly exhorted under his oath
to love his country and endear his family, on the other hand, when, in response to the
same oath, the supreme cause of his official duty exacts upon him to offer his very life,
he cannot help but leave behind him forever his endeared family and his beloved
country.

This is because this sacrificial human victim is very much a part and parcel of
one profession, the police profession, whose oblation to GOD, country and people finds
its august limits only in death.

To the present-day members of the nation’s police service, the oath of loyalty to
GOD, country and people could also serve as reminder of their comrades who died in
line of duty or otherwise met their untimely demise in the hands of the enemies of
societies, yes, offering their lives so that their countrymen could live in peace, solace,
and security that they have learned to enjoy and cherish.

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CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARD

What are the purposes of the COPCES?

- Foster the individual efficiency, behavioral discipline and organizational effectiveness,
as well as respect for constitutional and human rights of citizens, democratic
principles and ideals and the supremacy of civilian authority over the military;
- Set the moral tone and norms of professional conduct in the police service;
- Provide moral and ethical guidance to all PNP members; and
- Enlighten members of the police service of what behavior is really acceptable to
define what is permitted and what is prohibited.

Guiding Policies and Principles towards Professionalized and Dedicated Law

Enforcers.
- Public office is a public trust
- All public servants must at all times be accountable to the people
- Serve with utmost responsibility, integrity, morality, loyalty and efficiency
- Respect to human rights and dignity as a hallmark of a democratic society
- Bear faithful allegiance to the legitimate government
- Support and uphold the Constitution
- Respect the duly constituted authority and be loyal to the police service

1. PNP ETHICAL DOCTRINE

The PNP Ethical Doctrine was called from the PNP Code of Professional
Conduct and Ethical Standards (COPCES). The adoption of the PNP Code of
conduct as an Ethical Doctrine reinforces the former as an effective instrument in
the moral values' internalization in the PNP.

2. THE PNP CORE VALUES

The police service is a noble profession which demands from its
members specialized knowledge and skills, as well as high standards of ethics
and morality. In this regard, the members of the PNP must adhere to and
internalize the enduring core values of the PNP such as;
a. love of God.
b. respect for authority.
c. respect for women.
d. respect for sanctity of marriage.
e. responsible dominion and stewardship over material things
f. truthfulness

3. THE POLICE OFFICER’S CREED

a. God believer

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I believe in God, the Supreme Being, a great provider, and the creator of
all men and all dear to me. In return, I can do no less than love Him above all,
seek his guidance in the performance of my sworn duties and honor Him at all
times.

b. Respect for Authority

I believe that respect for authority is duty. I respect and uphold the
constitution and the laws of the land and the applicable rules and regulations. I
recognize the legitimacy and authority of the leadership, and follow and obey
legal orders of my superior officers.

c. Love and service to people

I believe in selfless love and service to people. Toward this end, I commit
myself to the service of my fellowmen over and above my personal convenience.

d. Respect for sanctity of marriage and rights of women

I believe in the sanctity of marriage and respect for women. I shall set the
example of decency and morality and shall have high regard for family life and
chastity.

Notes:
 Marriage is a special contract of permanent union between a man and a
woman entered into in accordance with law for the establishment of
conjugal and family life. It is the foundation of the family and inviolable
social institution whose nature, consequences and incidents are governed
by law and not subject to stipulation, except that marriage settlements
may fix the property relations during the marriage within the limits
provided by the Family Code.
 The family, being the foundation of the nation, is a basic social institution
which public policy cherishes and protects. Consequently, family relations
are governed by law and no customs, practice or agreement destructive
of the family shall be recognized or given effect.
Article 149, Family Code

e. Responsible dominion and stewardship

I believe in the responsible dominion and stewardship over material
things. I shall inhibit myself from ostentatious display of my property. I shall
protect the environment and conserve nature to maintain ecological balance. I
shall protect private and public properties and prevent others from destroying it.

f. Trustworthiness
I believe in the wisdom of truthfulness. I must be trustworthy and shall
speak the truth at all times as required by my profession.

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PNP STAND ON BASIC ISSUES

The deployment and employment of the PNP personnel require the organization
and its members to bare their stand on the following basic issues.

1. PNP Image – The image of any organization affects the esprit d’ corps, morale and
welfare of the members, and sense of pride to the organization. In view thereof, all
members of the PNP should conduct themselves in manner that would not place the
PNP core values in vain and possess the following virtue:
a. Honor
b. Honesty
c. Integrity
d. Humility
e. Valor
f. Charity
g. Justice
h. Loyalty to the service

Note:
 Every member of the PNP must always bear in their minds that every improper
and unlawful performance of their duties will not only put them into bad light but the
PNP organization as well.

2. Career Management, the Key to Professionalism – The proper implementation of

the PNP’s Career Management will greatly enhance the personnel professionalization
process with regards to procurement, training, promotion, assignment, placement,
awards and retirement. The PNP shall formulate a stringent policy and strictly implement
the human resources development system, compatible to the equitable distribution of
procurement, fair promotion, rationalized approach in assignment, skill development,
immediate grant of reward and award, and decent living upon retirement.

3. Police Management Leadership – The effectiveness of law enforcement is reflective

of the managerial capabilities and competent leadership of the men and women who run
the PNP organization. These attributes must therefore be one of the primary bases for
consideration in the selection of personnel for employment and deployment purposes.

Note:
 It is important for the PNP to have good leaders with good managerial capabilities
to make the organization achieve its mandate.

4. Equality in the Service – There shall be judicious and equitable distribution of

opportunity to prove one’s worth in the police service. The problem on inequity thru class

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orientation and factionalism, both real and perceived, premised on favored assignment,
inequitable opportunity of training, unfair granting of promotion, and untimely awarding of
achievements, will create an atmosphere of demoralization. The result is inefficiency and
lack of teamwork to the detriment of the organization. It behooves. Therefore, on the
PNP leadership address the situation. The civilian character of the organization requires
adherence to the rule on merit and fitness system and to dissociate the above process
from class orientation and factionalism.

5. Delicadeza - In consonance with the requirements of honor and integrity in the PNP,
all members must have the moral courage to sacrifice self-interest in keeping with the
time-honored principle of delicadeza.

Illustration
 PO1 Santos responded to the call of service when his assistance was solicited by
the victim of robbery-snatching even he is already off-duty.

6. Police Lifestyle - The PNP shall promote and maintain a lifestyle for its members
which the public will find credible and respectable. The public expects a police officer to
live a simple and dignified life. They must be free from greed corruption and exploitation.

Notes:
 PNP members must always remember that the life of a police officer is not the
same with the extravagant life of a businessman. He must live with a lifestyle
commensurate to his profession.
 Lifestyle which is acceptable to the eyes of the public must be promoted to each
member of the PNP including high-ranking officials.
 High-ranking PNP officials must likewise observe this and set themselves as
examples to their subordinates.

7. Political Patronage - PNP members shall inhibit themselves from soliciting political
patronage on matters pertaining to assignment, award, training, and promotion.

Notes:
 Police officers are not politicians, hence, let them live free from politics.
 PNP officials must not use politics to acquire advantage for the purposes of
promotion and other benefits.

8. Human Rights - All PNP members must respect and protect human dignity and
man’s inalienable rights to life, liberty and property.

Note:
 PNP officers are considered protector of rights and must not violate the rights they
sworn to be protected.

9. Setting Example- All PNP members shall set good example to the public as law
abiding citizen.

Note:
 There is a great impact to citizenry when our law enforcers became law violators.

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Illustration:
 PO1 Santos always obey and observe traffic laws rules and regulations, setting
himself as a model to the public that police officers are likewise a law abiding
citizen.

STANDARD OF POLICE PROFESSIONALISM

All members of the PNP shall perform their duties with excellence, competence,
integrity, intelligence and expertise in the application of specialized skill and technical
knowledge.

Professionalism refers to the conduct and qualities that characterize a particular

profession. Professionalism in policing necessitates viewing the position of
police officer as a profession, rather than simply as a job. A profession is a calling that
requires specialized knowledge and particular academic training.

POLICE PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

All members of the PNP shall observe the following professional police conduct:

1. Commitment of Democracy
a. Uniformed PNP members shall commit themselves to the democratic way of
life and values and maintain the principles of public accountability.
b. They shall at all times uphold the constitution and be loyal to our country,
people and the police organization.

2. Commitment to Public Interest

a. PNP members shall always uphold public interest over and above personal
interest.
b. All government properties, resources and powers of their respective offices
must be employed and used effectively, honestly and efficiently, particularly
to avoid wastage of public funds and revenues.

3. Non-Partisanship
a. PNP members shall provide service to everyone without discrimination
regardless of party affiliation in accordance with existing laws and
regulations.

4. Physical Fitness and Health

a. All PNP members shall strive to be physically fit and in good health at all
times. Towards this end, they shall undergo regular exercises and annual
medical examination in any PNP hospital or medical facility.

5. Secrecy Discipline
All PNP members shall guard the confidentiality of classified information
against unauthorized disclosure, including confidential aspect of official business,
special orders, communication and other documents, roster or any portion
thereof, contents of criminal records, identities of person who may have given

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information to the police in confidence and other classified information on

intelligence materials.
a. Official Business
Members of the PNP Shall treat official business confidential and shall not
impart the same to anyone except those for whom it is intended, or as
directed by their superior officer, or as required by law.

b. Special Order
PNP members shall not divulge to any unauthorized person any special
order or classified document which they may be made accessible to or may
receive or may pass their hands.

c. Roster
PNP Members shall not divulge the roster or any portion thereof to any
individual, firm or corporation, or similar entity.

d. Criminal Record
Contents of criminal record shall not be exhibited or divulge to any person
other than duly authorized police officers or upon approval of their superior
officers, or as required by law.

e. Identify of Person
PNP members shall respect the confidence of persons who may give
information or seek the aid of the police names and business or addresses be
not made public except when required by law, or which it is absolutely
necessary in the performance of duty.

6. Social Awareness
All PNP members and their immediate family members shall be
encouraged to actively get involved in the religious, social, and civic activities
to enhance image.

7. Non- Solicitation of Patronage

All PNP members shall seek self-improvement through career
development and shall:
a. Not directly or indirectly solicit influence or recommendation from politicians,
high-ranking government officials, and prominent citizens, persons affiliated
with civic or religious organizations with regard to their assignments,
promotions, transfer or related advantage.
b. Nor shall they initiate any petition to be prepared and presented by citizens in
their behalf.
c. Moreover, they shall advise their immediate relatives not to interfere in the
activities of the police service particularly in the assignment and
reassignment of personnel.

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d. Not, at any time, suggest, solicit or recommend to any party or accused with
pending case, the employment of any particular bondsman or counsel for his
defense or release.

8. Proper Care and Use of Public Property

a. Members shall be responsible for the security, proper care and use of public
property issued to them and/ or deposited under their care and custody.
Unauthorized use of public property for personal convenience or gain and
that of their families, friends or relatives are strictly prohibited.
b. Retiring, reassigning, or dismissed members of the PNP shall
immediatelysurrender their badges, service firearms, identification cards,
other insignia of office, and other property of the PNP which may be in their
possession or under their responsibility.
c. All recovered property, used in the commission of crime or alleged to be so,
property legally seized, found or surrender and those found on the person of
a prisoner; shall be properly tagged and immediately delivered to the proper
custodian for disposition.

9. Respect for Human Rights

a. In the performance of their duty, PNP members shall respect human dignity
and uphold human rights of all persons.
b. He shall not inflict, investigate, or tolerate extra-judicial killing, arbitrary arrest,
any act of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment.
c. He shall not invoke superior order or exceptional circumstances such as state
of war, a threat to national security, internal political instability or any
committing such violation of human rights.

10. Devotion to Duty

a. All PNP members shall perform their duties with devotion, and manifest
concern for public welfare.
b. He shall refrain from engaging in any activity which shall be in conflict with
their duties as public servants.
c. He shall not rein sickness or Injury or Physical incapacity to avoid
performance of duty.
d. He shall not leave his assigned jurisdiction of official business, except by
permission of his superior officer or other competent authority, unless such
permission is not practical as in hot pursuit of a criminal, in which case a
report must be made immediately thereafter.

11. Conservation of Natural Resources

a. Policemen shall help in the development and conservation of our natural
resources for ecological balance and posterity as these are inalienable
heritage of our people.

12. Discipline
a. They shall conduct themselves at all times in keeping with the rules and
regulations of the Philippines.

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13. Loyalty
a. Above all, policemen must be loyal to the Constitution and to the police
service as manifested by their loyalty to their superiors, peers and
subordinates as well.

14. Obedience to Superior

a. Policemen of lower ranks must be always courteous and obedience to their
superior and other appropriate authorities within the chain of command.
b. No members shall use abusive, insulting, or indecent language to another
member.

15. Command Responsibility

a. In accordance with the Doctrine of Command Responsibility, immediate
commanders shall be responsible for the effective supervision, control and
direction of their personnel.
b. He shall see to it that all government resources with laws and regulations and
safeguard against losses thru illegal and improper disposition.

POLICE ETHICAL STANDARDS

All PNP members shall observe the police ethical standards, which pertain to
established and generally accepted moral values. Ethical standard to be observed are
the following:
1. Morality
a. All PNP members shall adhere to high standards of morality and decency and
shall set good example for others to follow;
b. In no instance during their terms of office shall they be involved as owner,
operators, manager or investor in any house of ill-repute or illegal gambling
den or other places devoted to vices;
c. Nor shall they patronize such places unless on official duty, and not tolerate
operations of such establishment in their respective areas of responsibility.
d. They shall be faithful to their lawfully wedded spouse.

2. Judicious Use of Authority

All PNP Members shall exercise proper legitimate use of authority in the
performance of duty.

3. Integrity
Policemen shall not allow themselves to be victim of corruption and
dishonest practices in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 6713
and other applicable laws.

4. Justice
All PNP members shall strive constantly to respect their rights as human
beings, parents, children, citizens, workers, leaders or in other capacities and to
see to it that others do likewise.

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5. Humility
a. All PNP members shall recognize the fact that they are public servants and
not the master of the people and toward this end; they should perform their
duties without arrogance.
b. They should also recognize their own inadequacies, inabilities and limitations
as individuals and perform their duties without attracting attention or expecting
the applause of others.

5. Orderliness
All PNP members shall follow logical procedure in accomplishing task
assigned to them to minimize waste in the use of time, money and efforts.

6. Perseverance
Once a decision is made, all PNP members shall take legitimate means
to achieve the goal even in the face of internal or external difficulties, and despite
of anything which might weaken their resolve in the course of time.

POLICE CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

The PNP adopts the generally acceptable customs and traditions based on the
desirable practices of the police. These shall serve as an inspiration to the PNP
endeavor to attain its goals and objectives.

Definitions

- Customs- Is a rule of conduct formed by repetition of acts, uniformly observed as

social rule, legally binding and obligatory.

Established usage or social practices carried on by tradition that have obtained the
force of law.

- Traditions- bodies of belief, stories, and customs usages handed down from
generation to generation with the effect of an unwritten law.

- Courtesy- a manifestation or expression of consideration and respect for others.

- Ceremony- a formal acts established by customs or authority as proper to special

occasion.
- Social Decorum- a set of norms or standard practice d by members during social
and other functions.

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Police Customs on Courtesy

1. Salute- the usual greeting rendered by uniformed members upon meeting and
recognizing person entitled to salute.
2. Salute to the National Color and Standard- members stand at attention and
salute the national color and standards as it passes by them or lowered during
ceremonies.
3. Address/Title- junior in rank address senior members who are entitled to salute
with word “Sir/Mam”.

Police Customs and Courtesy Calls

1. Courtesy Call of Newly Assigned/Appointed Members- PNP members who are

newly appointed or assigned in a unit or command call on the chief of the unit or
command and to other key personnel for accounting, orientation and other
purposes.
2. Christmas Call- PNP members pay a Christmas call on their local executive in their
respective area of responsibility.
3. New Year’s Call- PNP members pay a new year’s call on their superiors or key
officials on their respective area of responsibility.
4. Promotion Call- newly appointed PNP members call on their unit heads. On this
occasion, they are usually given due recognition and congratulations by their peers
for such deserved accomplishment.
5. Exit Call- PNP members pay an exit call in their superior in their command when
relieved or reassigned out of the said unit or command.
6. Courtesy of the Post- the host unit extends hospitality to visiting personnel who
pays respect to the command or unit.
7. Rank-Has-It-Own Privilege (RHIP)- PNP members recognize the practice that
different ranks carry with them corresponding privileges.

Police Customs on Ceremonies

1. Flag Raising Ceremony- The PNP members honor the flag by raising it and
singing the National Anthem before the start of official day’s work.
2. Flag Retreat Ceremony- At the end of the official day’s work, the PNP members
pause for the moment to salute the lowering of the flag.
3. Half-Mast- The flag is raised at half-mast in deference to deceased uniformed
members of the command.
4. Funeral Service and Honors- Departed uniformed members, retirees, war
veterans, PC/INP members are given vigil, necrological services and graveside
honors as a gesture of farewell.
5. Ceremonies Tendered to Retirees- In recognition to their long and faithful and
honorable service to the PNP, a testimonial activity is rendered to their honor.
6. Honor of Ceremony- Arrival and Departure honor ceremonies are tendered to
visiting dignitaries. VIP’s, PNP officer with grade of Chief Superintendent and above
and AFP officers with the equivalent grade, unless waived.

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7. Turn-over Ceremony- The relinquishment and assumption of command or key

position of command is publicly announced in a turn-over ceremony by the outgoing
and incoming officer in the presence of the immediate supervisor or his
representative.
8. Wedding Ceremonies- During marriage of PNP members, a ceremony is
conducted with participant in uniform and swords drawn.
9. Anniversary- The birth or institutional establishment of the command or unit is
commemorated in an anniversary ceremony.

Police Customs on Social Decorum

1. Proper Attire- PNP members always wear appropriate and proper attire in
conformity with the occasion.
2. Table Manners-PNP members always observe table etiquettes at all times.
3. Social Graces- PNP members should conduct themselves properly in dealing with
people during social functions.
4. Uniform/Appearance- the public looks upon the PNP members as distinctively a
man among men. It is a welcome sight when the PNP members wear their uniform
wherever they may be, since disciplined PNP members are the best exemplified by
those who are in neat appearance and wearing the prescribed uniform, they must
therefore observe the following, to wit;
4.1 Wearing of prescribed uniform;
4.2 Wearing as part of the uniform, awards, and decorations earned in accordance
with the prescribed rules and regulations.
4.3 Adherence to haircut prescribed by rules and regulations.
5. Manner of Walking-Every PNP member is expected to walk with pride and dignity.

Other Police Customs

1. Visiting the Sick- PNP members who are sick in the hospital, their residence or any
place of confinement are visited by their immediate commanders or other available
officers of the unit in order that their needs are attended to.
2. Survivor Assistance to Heirs of Deceased Members- When PNP members die, a
survivor officer is designated to render maximum assistance to their legitimate
bereaved family until all benefits due shall have been received.
3. Visiting the Religious Leader- PNP officers visits religious leaders in their area of
assignment to establish or maintain rapport or cooperation between the different
religious leaders and the PNP.
4. Athletics- All PNP members indulge in physical fitness activities to insure that their
proper physical appearance and bearing are maintained with waistline
measurement always smaller that the size of his chest and in conformity in the
standard set forth by the organization.
5. Happy Hours- Usually on Friday or any other day suitable for the occasion, PNP
members gathered together at their PNP club for light hearted jesting or airing of
minor gripes.

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Police Traditions

1. Spiritual Beliefs- The PNP members are traditionally religious and God-loving
person. They attend religious services together with the members of their
family.
2. Valor- History attest that the Filipino law enforcers have exemplified the traditions of
valor in defending the country from aggression and oppression. They sacrificed their
limbs and lives for the sake of their countrymen whom they have pledge to serve.
3. Patriotism- The PNP members are traditionally patriotic by nature. They manifest
their love of country with a pledge of allegiance to the flag and a vow to defend the
constitution.
4. Discipline- the discipline of the PNP members are manifested by instinctive
obedience to lawful orders and through spontaneous action towards attainment of
organizational objectives guided by moral, ethical, and legal norms.
5. Gentlemanliness- The PNP members are upright in character, polite in manners,
dignified in appearance, and sincere in their concern to their fellowmen.
6. Word of Honor- the PNP members’ word is their bonds. They stand by and commit
to uphold it.
7. Duty- The PNP members have historically exemplified themselves as dedicated
public servants who perform their tasks with deep sense of responsibility and self-
sacrifice.
8. Loyalty- the policemen are traditionally loyal to the organization, country, or people,
as borne by history and practice.
9. Camaraderie- the binding spirit that enhances the teamwork and cooperation in the
police organization, extending to the people they serve, is manifested by the PNP
members’ deep commitment and concern to one another.

What are the Contemporary Ethical Issues in the Police Service?

1. Corruption
2. Protection of illegal activities
3. Direct involvement in illegal activities
4. Intern Payoffs
5. Police misconduct
6. Political Patronage
7. Human Rights violations
8. Extravagant lifestyle
9. Lack of discipline
10. Immorality
11. Incompetency
12. Disloyalty to the service

Professional Conduct and Ethical Standards| Module University of Antique