EIGHT police chiefs in Metro Manila have been relieved from their posts for failing to implement the Five-Minute Response Time policy of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
This was disclosed on Monday by PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III who confirmed that the sacked police officials did not adhere to the policy, resulting in their removal.
“We already relieved eight, and there will be more because I was there in Central Visayas yesterday in Iloilo and we issued a caution to the provincial directors,” Torre said told reporters after the flag-raising ceremony at the Quezon City Hall.
The relieved police chiefs are those from Navotas, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Mandaluyong, Marikina, San Juan, Parañaque, and Makati, according to PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.
“I want the entire NCR to comply with that. If a chief of police can’t do it in their station—they will be removed,” Torre said.
Torre indicated that additional dismissals could follow, potentially including provincial directors in Central Visayas. He gave assurance that replacements for the relieved officers have been picked.
The Five-Minute Response Time rule aims to shift from traditional precinct-based police service to a more mobile, proactive, and community-oriented approach, enhancing police visibility and public service.
“There is really a need to focus and delineate strategies that would be implemented for the urban and rural areas. Commanders on the ground should know what’s happening,” Torre said after his first command conference with the regional police chiefs of Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Negros Island Region on Saturday, June 14.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “PNP sacks 8 chiefs for flouting ‘5-Minute Response’ rule.”
