Question & AnswerQ&A (PNP CIRCULAR NO. 2008-005)
The Circular prescribes guidelines for handling Absence Without Official Leave (AWOL) or Neglect of Duty offenses incurred by PNP uniformed personnel.
AWOL refers to the status of any official or employee who absents himself from work without approved leave of absence, including absence without leave, abandonment of work, failure to report after approved leave, failure to notify superior of inability to report, and failure to report to new assignment within three days.
It is a non-disciplinary administrative sanction whereby the name of the PNP personnel is removed from the roster of personnel without forfeiture of benefits or disqualification from reemployment.
Dropping from the rolls is a non-disciplinary separation that does not preclude reappointment, whereas disciplinary action involves formal charges that may lead to dismissal from service.
Restoration to Duty is a return to active service after suspension, after serving a penalty, or for the purpose of administrative investigation.
Urgent needs during crises like calamities or insurgency, under-manned stations significantly affecting effectiveness, or unique individual skill of the personnel critical to police work.
After five days of AWOL, the immediate superior must send a written notice directing the member to report back within three days. If the member fails to report, a report recommending dropping from the rolls is submitted. Upon approval, an order of dropping from the rolls is issued.
Yes, if the AWOL period extends to thirty calendar days or more, dropping from the rolls can occur without prior notice, but the personnel must be informed within five days of the effectivity of separation.
Their salary and allowances are stopped immediately, name removed from records, leave credits deducted for the AWOL period, and issued firearms, ID card, and badge are recalled.
No, dropping from the rolls is not a disqualification from reappointment but is considered a derogatory record that may affect reemployment in the PNP.
They may file a Motion for Reconsideration within three days from receipt of the order with the non-disciplinary authority; if meritorious, they may be restored to duty with back benefits.
No, once dropped, the personnel ceases to be a member of the PNP and cannot be reinstated solely to face disciplinary charges unless a timely and meritorious motion or appeal led to restoration to duty.
The immediate superior officer is directly responsible for initiating the proper administrative action against AWOL personnel and may be administratively liable for failure to act under the Doctrine of Command Responsibility.
A consolidated monthly report showing names, assignments, period of absence, and action taken must be submitted to the DPRM, PNP NHQ by the 30th day of the following month.