A Year of Transformative Leadership: PNP Chief Rommel Marbil’s Commitment to Public Service

As Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil marks his first anniversary as Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) this day, April 1, 2025, the nation reflects on a year of remarkable progress under his leadership. His tenure has been defined by a bold vision for law enforcement—one that prioritizes crime prevention, community involvement, and the welfare of police officers and their families.

A Year of Significant Achievements

Under Chief Marbil’s watch, the PNP has made unprecedented strides in public safety and confidence. Crime rates have dropped by 20% nationwide, thanks to a proactive approach that emphasizes prevention over mere response. Enhanced intelligence operations, strengthened police visibility, and active community engagement have made it possible to stop crimes before they even begin.

One of the most notable milestones of 2024 was achieving zero casualties among journalists and media personnel. This accomplishment underscores the PNP’s unwavering commitment to upholding press freedom and ensuring the safety of those who serve as the eyes and ears of the public.

Redefining Public Service

At the heart of Chief Marbil’s leadership is a simple yet profound question: "How can we serve more?" This philosophy has reshaped the way the PNP operates, instilling a deeper sense of purpose among its officers. Law enforcement is no longer just about enforcing the law—it’s about being active partners in nation-building, fostering trust, and working hand-in-hand with communities.

By shifting the focus from reactive policing to proactive crime deterrence, the PNP has intensified intelligence-sharing, awareness campaigns, and grassroots peacekeeping initiatives. These efforts have not only enhanced security but also strengthened the bond between the police and the people they serve.

Putting Policemen and Their Families First

Chief Marbil recognizes that a strong and effective police force begins with the well-being of its officers. Many policemen are breadwinners, carrying the responsibility of supporting their families. Understanding this, he has championed several initiatives to ease their burdens, including:

• Legal Assistance – Providing legal support to officers who encounter

challenges in the line of duty.

• Health Cards – Ensuring officers and their families have access to quality

medical care.

• Extended Family Support – Acknowledging that PNP leadership must do \

more to help lower-ranking officers secure financial and emotional stability.

By addressing the needs of his personnel, Marbil ensures that they can serve with greater focus, dedication, and integrity.

Instilling Discipline and Accountability

The PNP’s mission to protect and serve is best encapsulated in Chief Marbil’s guiding message: “Gusto ng Pulis, Ligtas Ka” ("The Police Want You Safe"). This slogan is more than just words—it reflects a renewed commitment to public safety, professionalism, and trust-building.

Accountability and Responsibility is yet another shining pillar of his leadership. His message to officers is clear: "Value the Uniform." Every badge represents a duty to uphold integrity, discipline, and honor. He also emphasizes that maintaining peace and order is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement—it requires active participation from the local communities as well.

A Future Focused on Learning and Growth

As the PNP moves forward, Chief Marbil is laying the groundwork for long-term improvements in policing. One of his key initiatives is the implementation of mandatory continuous education and training for officers. This ensures that law enforcers remain well-equipped to handle modern security challenges and adapt to evolving threats.

Equally important is his emphasis on respect for human life. He envisions a police force that is not only effective but also ethical—one that enforces the law with fairness, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Guiding Principles of Leadership

Chief Marbil’s leadership is anchored on three core principles:

• Strength and Consistency – A leader must stand firm on decisions,

especially when they are backed by facts and evidence.

• Strict but Fair Governance – Discipline must be enforced consistently,

ensuring justice within the ranks.

• Decentralized Power – Empowering regional units to make decisions that

best serve their local communities.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Chief Rommel Marbil's first anniversary as PNP Chief, his leadership has set a strong foundation for the PNP’s continued evolution. By prioritizing “crime prevention over crime solution”, genuine public service, and attention to the well-being of his officers, he has reinforced the PNP’s role as a trusted institution anew, one that is dedicated to protecting and serving the Filipino people.

The past year has set a strong foundation for a future where safety, community collaboration, and unwavering dedication to justice remain at the core of the PNP’s mission - which inspires in us a vision of a safer and more united Philippines. Kudos to PNP Chief Rommel Marbil!