Manila: Be true leaders, not just holders of the “general” rank, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil advised 32 newly promoted star-rank officers. “We don’t just need generals in title — we need generals in character. Leaders who can inspire, influence and drive the PNP to become better each day,” Marbil said in a statement Sunday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marbil emphasized that the promotion of four major generals and 28 brigadier generals reflects the PNP’s strengthened commitment to strategic leadership, enhanced operational effectiveness, and deeper community engagement. “Their promotion is not merely about wearing new stars on their shoulders — it’s about the impact they will make,” he stated.

Marbil also noted the various threats and issues the PNP is currently facing, ranging from cybercriminals to armed groups to election-related violence. He reminded the officers that “communities look to us for leadership, security, and hope.”

The newly promoted officers, as leaders, “are expected to serve as the driving force behind the PNP’s intensified initiatives to secure communities, ensure public safety, and reinforce institutional trust,” Marbil added. He further expressed his expectations for them to lead in building stronger police-community ties, enforcing the law with integrity, and turning every police station, checkpoint, and patrol into symbols of competence, compassion, and credibility.