Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has expressed its openness to a proposal aimed at separating the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) from the agency, a move intended to enhance its disciplinary mechanisms. Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that efforts to strengthen the IAS are welcome, even if they involve fully detaching it from the police organization.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez's remarks came as a response to Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson's plan to file a bill that would grant the IAS independence from the PNP. Lacson, who is a former PNP chief, emphasized that such a separation would empower the IAS, a watchdog unit within the PNP responsible for investigating officer misconduct, by providing it with greater authority to address the issue of erring police officers.

Nartatez highlighted the importance of removing rogue personnel as a priority, aligning with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to ensure accountability and transparency in law enforcement. He noted that several measures have already been implemented to uphold the IAS's integrity and independence in its mission to address misconduct among officers nationwide.

"We are committed to supporting measures that ensure accountability and integrity within the police ranks. Roles should be clearly defined. Our goal is a disciplined and professional PNP that the public can trust," Nartatez stated.