Cops are not ‘errand boys’: PNP to review guidelines on protective assignments

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will review its guidelines on protective assignments to ensure police officers tasked to guard politicians, businessmen and other high-profile individuals are not being used as personal errand boys.

PNP chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the review will include regular monitoring of police personnel assigned as security details to ensure they perform only duties related to their official mandate.

“Our officers are trained protectors of human life and public safety, not personal errand boys or logistics aides for private errands,” Nartatez said in a statement.

“I remind all personnel that your loyalty belongs to the Constitution, the people, and the PNP. You must never allow your uniform to be degraded by tasks outside your legal mandate,” he added.

The planned review comes amid concerns over police officers being asked to perform tasks unrelated to their responsibility of protecting the personalities assigned to them.

The issue was further highlighted by recent court testimonies discussing alleged “special tasking” involving a controversial personality.

Nartatez said the case underscores the need to establish clear boundaries between legitimate security work and activities unrelated to police functions.

He directed all police security details to remain within the scope of their official duties, exercise sound judgment, and uphold professionalism and integrity.

“Their actions must always be anchored on the law and their sworn duty, not on the personal demands of the individuals they protect,” he said.