Philippines police chief gives overweight officers one year to slim down or face dismissal
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a strong directive to its personnel: lose excess weight within one year or risk losing your job.
This warning came from newly appointed PNP Chief, Gen. Nicolas Torre III, during a radio interview on dzBB, where he emphasised the importance of discipline and physical fitness within the police force.
Torre cited Republic Act 6975 — the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act — which mandates that officers must keep their weight within five kilograms of the standard, based on height, age, and sex.
Acknowledging that some officers may have medical issues, the police chief said the force is considering two options for those affected: reassignment to administrative roles or discharge on grounds of total disability.
Ongoing consultations with the National Police Commission will determine how to best implement the policy.
The order applies to all ranks — from high-level officers to patrol personnel — and is part of a broader plan to enhance discipline across the organization.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo reinforced the message, saying:
“It is incumbent upon every police officer to maintain a physical appearance acceptable for a police officer.”
She added that officers should start monitoring their Body Mass Index (BMI) and can choose any preferred method for weight loss, especially those with existing health concerns.
“The directive does not dictate how you are going to lose weight, but of course, we will give considerations,” she stated.
The nationwide directive underscores the belief that a fit police force is a disciplined one, and aims to hold every officer accountable to that standard.
