Report PNP Chief Enforces Fitness Mandate: One Year to Shed Weight

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Picture courtesy of PhilStar

 

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Nicolas Torre III, has issued a stern directive to police officers: lose excess weight within a year or face dismissal. This comes as part of his commitment to enforcing strict physical fitness standards across the force.

 

Citing Republic Act 6975, Torre emphasised that officers must maintain a weight within five kilograms of the ideal for their height, age, and sex. This initiative spans from senior officials to patrol-level officers, emphasising the importance of discipline and professional appearance.

 

For officers with medical conditions, Torre proposes either a complete disability discharge or a shift to administrative roles, pending consultation with the National Police Commission.

 

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo explained that while weight loss is imperative, how officers achieve it remains their choice, with allowances for medical concerns. The focus is on calculating body mass index (BMI) and striving for health within reasonable parameters.

 

Additionally, Torre signalled a crackdown on response efficiency, having already removed eight Metro Manila police chiefs for failing to meet a five-minute response time in emergencies. Further non-compliance could see more commanders relieved from duty, with vacant positions aimed to ensure swift peace and order management.

 

Two provincial directors have already faced scrutiny for missing the response target, though Torre has withheld their identities to avoid public embarrassment. He assures officers will have opportunities to rectify their shortcomings and reapply for command roles.

 

In Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Negros, directors received warnings after underperforming in simulation exercises, highlighting Torre’s unwavering dedication to reforming both fitness and operational effectiveness within the PNP.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-06-18