PNP Clarifies Scope of Directive on Removal of Politically Branded Signages
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police on Sunday issued a clarification on its directive ordering the removal of politically branded signages, stressing that the policy applies strictly to materials displayed within PNP-owned and PNP-controlled properties nationwide.
In an official press statement, the PNP said the order covers police stations, camps, offices, and other facilities under its jurisdiction. The clarification comes amid public discussion and varying interpretations following the release of guidance on the removal of tarpaulins, posters, markers, and other promotional materials bearing political branding.
According to the PNP, the directive is anchored on Department of the Interior and Local Government Memorandum Circular No. 2026-006, and is reinforced by a PNP memorandum dated February 2, 2026. The policy instructs all police units to remove materials that display the name, image, initials, color motif, slogan, or identifying symbols of public officials, particularly when such materials are linked to government-funded projects, programs, and activities.
“The intent is clear and limited in scope,” the PNP said. “This directive refers only to signages and promotional materials displayed inside PNP premises. It does not extend to properties or spaces outside the control of the PNP.”
Upholding political neutrality
The police leadership emphasized that the move is part of long-standing efforts to maintain the political neutrality of the country’s law enforcement agency, especially as the nation moves closer to the 2028 national and local elections.
The PNP said that allowing politically branded materials inside police facilities — even when tied to legitimate government projects — risks creating perceptions of partisanship or personal endorsement, which could undermine public trust in the institution.
“Public service must remain free from personal or partisan promotion,” the statement read, adding that police facilities should not be used, directly or indirectly, to advance the image or political interests of any public official.
The directive covers signages regardless of format, including tarpaulins announcing infrastructure projects, posters highlighting assistance programs, commemorative markers, and similar materials that prominently feature elected officials or political figures.
Part of broader reform agenda
PNP officials framed the policy as consistent with the organization’s broader reform thrust under the banner “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.” The initiative emphasizes professionalism, transparency, and citizen-focused service.
By removing politically branded materials from police facilities, the PNP said it aims to reinforce the principle that government services are delivered by institutions — not by personalities — and are funded by taxpayers rather than individual officials.
“This is about institutional integrity,” the PNP added. “Police offices must project impartiality and professionalism at all times.”
Compliance and implementation
The PNP has directed unit commanders and heads of offices to ensure immediate and sustained compliance. Internal inspections are expected to be conducted to verify that all covered materials have been taken down from PNP properties.
Officials clarified that the directive does not prohibit the display of official government information, such as neutral project descriptions or mandatory notices, provided these materials do not carry personal branding, political slogans, or identifying features of public officials.
The clarification was signed by Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the Philippine National Police, who reiterated that the policy is preventive in nature and intended to protect the institution from being drawn into political controversies.
Public reaction
While some local officials and observers initially questioned whether the order would affect signages outside police facilities, governance advocates welcomed the clarification, noting that it aligns with existing “anti-epal” provisions in national policy that discourage self-promotion using public resources.
The PNP, for its part, urged the public and stakeholders to read the directive in full and avoid misinterpretations, emphasizing that its sole objective is to keep police spaces neutral, professional, and focused on public service.
“As guardians of the law,” the statement concluded, “the PNP must remain above politics — visibly and consistently.” ©️KuryenteNewd