The Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) is strengthening its background investigation and monitoring systems for incoming cadets following renewed controversies involving hazing inside the academy.

PNPA Director Redrigo Maranan revealed during an exclusive DZRH's Damdaming Bayan interview that reforms are now being enforced to prevent further cases of maltreatment among cadets.

According to Maranan, the academy has intensified its Complete Background Investigation (CBI) process, particularly for members of Class 2030, after discovering that some cadets previously had links to fraternities, military groups, and other organizations where hazing practices may have existed.

“Nakita natin yung ibang mga kadete dito ay dating pulis na rin, dating sundalo, may mga dating CAFGU, may mga dating may fraternity,” Maranan said.

He explained that the academy differentiates legitimate training from hazing through strict adherence to official training manuals and schedules.

“Ang sinasabing hazing or maltreatment ay ’yung sumosobra ka na doon sa authorized na ipinapagawa lang ng manual,” he stated.

Maranan also disclosed that cadets receive a monthly training allowance of around P52,000 while undergoing the four-year cadetship program, as they are considered government scholars and future police officers.

Graduates of the PNPA automatically enter the police force as lieutenants, a rank higher than entry-level patrol officers.

The academy is set to conduct its annual PNPA Cadet Admission Test in October for aspiring applicants aged 18 to 22 years old who meet the academy’s educational, physical, and medical qualifications.