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Advocates Philippines
PNP Warns: The Police Uniform Is Not A Halloween Costume
Photo credit: PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is reminding everyone—especially those who got a bit too creative this Halloween—that the police uniform is not a costume.
This comes after a photo went viral on social media showing a man dressed in a PNP uniform with the sleeves cut off, which quickly drew outrage from both netizens and police personnel.
PNP Acting Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. didn’t mince words, calling the act “an outright disrespect to the honor of the entire police force.”
“Our uniform carries a history of valor and sacrifice—it represents the people’s trust in us,” said Nartatez.
“To misuse it as a costume trivializes the meaning of service and mocks those who risk their lives to keep our communities safe.”
The PNP clarified that wearing or imitating a police uniform without authorization isn’t just offensive—it’s illegal. Under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, anyone found guilty of illegally using official uniforms or insignia can face penalties.
Authorities have already launched an investigation to identify the person involved in the viral photo.
Nartatez added that the PNP remains firm in upholding the dignity of its uniform and symbols.
“This act will not go unpunished. Accountability must prevail,” he said.
“The PNP is committed to discipline, accountability, and service—anchored on our vision of a ‘Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas.’”
So before you dress up next Halloween, the PNP has this friendly reminder: costumes are for fun—but the police uniform stands for duty, courage, and respect.
This comes after a photo went viral on social media showing a man dressed in a PNP uniform with the sleeves cut off, which quickly drew outrage from both netizens and police personnel.
PNP Acting Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. didn’t mince words, calling the act “an outright disrespect to the honor of the entire police force.”
“Our uniform carries a history of valor and sacrifice—it represents the people’s trust in us,” said Nartatez.
“To misuse it as a costume trivializes the meaning of service and mocks those who risk their lives to keep our communities safe.”
The PNP clarified that wearing or imitating a police uniform without authorization isn’t just offensive—it’s illegal. Under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, anyone found guilty of illegally using official uniforms or insignia can face penalties.
Authorities have already launched an investigation to identify the person involved in the viral photo.
Nartatez added that the PNP remains firm in upholding the dignity of its uniform and symbols.
“This act will not go unpunished. Accountability must prevail,” he said.
“The PNP is committed to discipline, accountability, and service—anchored on our vision of a ‘Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas.’”
So before you dress up next Halloween, the PNP has this friendly reminder: costumes are for fun—but the police uniform stands for duty, courage, and respect.
Nov 3, 2025
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