The Philippine National Police (PNP) said its ongoing personnel shake-up and intensified campaign against illegal gambling, including jueteng, is part of a nationwide performance-based evaluation system—not a single-issue crackdown—following recent relief orders involving senior officers in Pangasinan and other regions.
In an exclusive interview on DZRH’s Balansyado, PNP spokesperson Randulf T. Tuaño clarified that the relief of officials, including the Pangasinan provincial director and multiple police chiefs, stemmed from an operational review ordered by PNP leadership, not solely from illegal gambling incidents.
Tuaño explained that the directive was implemented under the leadership of PNP Chief Nartatez and forms part of a broader “performance evaluation” of police commanders nationwide, covering crime reduction targets, administrative efficiency, and anti-illegal gambling operations.
The clarification comes after reports that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) recently arrested dozens of individuals in a jueteng crackdown in Pangasinan, which intensified scrutiny of local police performance.
According to earlier reports, at least 11 police officials in Pangasinan—including a provincial director and several municipal chiefs—were relieved due to alleged underperformance and failure to meet operational targets, including efforts against illegal gambling.
Tuaño stressed that the evaluation is nationwide and continuous, with similar reliefs already carried out in other provinces such as Laguna and regions under Police Regional Office 4A.
He added that the system ensures “merit-based assignment,” saying commanders are assessed based on measurable results rather than political considerations.
Relieved officers are currently reassigned to Camp Crame’s Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit while undergoing administrative investigation. Authorities said these cases remain primarily administrative, though criminal charges may follow if stronger evidence emerges.
The PNP also acknowledged that illegal gambling, particularly jueteng, remains active in some areas despite enforcement efforts. The game has long persisted in the Philippines despite being illegal, often linked to corruption and periodic police crackdowns.
Tuaño said the ongoing reforms are intended to address gaps in enforcement and strengthen accountability among field commanders.
“This serves as a warning to underperforming commanders,” he said, adding that the policy aims to ensure that police leaders deliver measurable results in crime prevention and public safety.
The PNP said the performance-based system will continue alongside intensified anti-illegal gambling operations nationwide.
