PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil’s Vision for Change

by Kuku Samsom

PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil is on a mission to reshape the Philippine National Police (PNP), focusing on integrity, accountability, and true service to the community. His leadership style is simple but powerful—every decision he makes is driven by a clear sense of purpose, aiming to set the PNP on a path of professionalism and trustworthiness.

Fairness and Consistency at the Heart of Leadership

Marbil’s leadership is all about fairness. He might come across as strict, but he’s firm in his belief that fairness and consistency should guide every decision. "Inconsistency leads to confusion," he says, and he’s serious about ensuring that no officer, whether new or experienced, is treated differently. For Marbil, there are no gray areas—when it comes to discipline, it’s either right or wrong. This clarity helps build trust within the police force, fostering a culture of equality and respect.

Mr and Mrs. Marbil

He also sets high standards for punctuality. All officers, including those in lower ranks, are expected to report before 8:00 a.m. “A leader must lead by example,” Marbil explains. His no-nonsense approach to time is not just about discipline—it’s about building a culture where everyone respects the value of time and responsibility.

Breaking Away from Old Practices for Efficiency

Chief Marbil is not afraid to challenge long-standing practices. He has introduced what he calls a “360-degree shift” in how the PNP operates, cutting out outdated traditions like lengthy parades and flag-raising ceremonies. “If we don’t value time, how can we expect others to?” Marbil asks. His goal is to free up officers to focus on their true purpose: serving the public.

Marbil also decided to remove athletic events from the PNP schedule, believing that daily operations and community engagement should take priority over military-style routines. It’s a shift that aims to make the PNP more responsive to the needs of the people.

A Leader with Purpose

For Marbil, becoming Chief PNP wasn’t just a career achievement—it felt like destiny. He’s a man of faith and commitment, more focused on serving the people than playing politics. His vision for leadership is simple: be disciplined, fair, and always put the public first. Under his guidance, the PNP is working toward

a future built on trust and service to the community.