PNP to recruit 2,000 officers in 2027 with P700 million budget

The Philippine National Police announced plans Wednesday to bring 2,000 new officers into its ranks during 2027, pending approval of a P700 million budget proposal. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed support for the funding allocation, describing the personnel expansion as essential to addressing current operational demands.

The proposed recruitment push forms part of the police force's broader effort to enhance its operational capabilities across the country. Officials said the additional officers would enable the PNP to improve emergency response times, strengthen law enforcement operations, and increase deterrence against criminal activity.

The budget proposal is expected to undergo review in the coming months as part of the national budgeting process. If approved, the 2,000 recruits would represent a significant expansion of the PNP's current workforce and reflect the government's commitment to bolstering public safety infrastructure.

The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about police reform and resource allocation in the Philippines' law enforcement sector. The PNP has previously highlighted staffing constraints as a factor affecting its capacity to carry out nationwide policing operations.