Question & AnswerQ&A (PNP MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 2008-004)
PNP members shall not directly or indirectly accept or receive any gift or benefit from any party which may influence their official actions or which might reasonably be perceived as influencing their official functions.
The references include R.A. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), R.A. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), PNP Integrity Development Review Action Plan, and Ombudsman Rules on Gifts and Benefits series of 2005.
It applies to all personnel of the Philippine National Police.
A gift is defined as a thing or right disposed of gratuitously or any act of liberality in favor of another who accepts it, including simulated sales or ostensibly onerous dispositions thereof.
They are unsolicited gifts of nominal value given as gestures of diplomacy and courtesy, not in anticipation of or in exchange for a favor from PNP members.
They may accept such tokens of appreciation or gratitude appropriate to official visits or ceremonies, provided these do not influence or appear intended to influence their official functions.
They must inform the Administrative Officers of their PNP Units, who will maintain a registry documenting the details of the mementos or souvenirs received.
The registry must include the name and office of the giver, date of receipt, recipient's name, nature of the occasion, and a description of the memento or souvenir.
The souvenirs must be given during official visits, be minimal in value, conform to normal standards of courtesy and protocol, and must not compromise the integrity of the PNP.
Any violation shall be grounds for disciplinary action and may also lead to filing of appropriate criminal charges, if warranted.
PNP units may give one memento to guests or dignitaries symbolizing appreciation, gifts should be minimal in value, locally produced, not wrapped, and a single gift only in line with goodwill and respect for local customs.
Gifts with a nominal value not exceeding Five Hundred Pesos (₱500.00) are considered appropriate for exchange among PNP personnel.
Yes, they may give or receive emergency contributions or assistance of reasonable value in cases like death or illness of a fellow member as part of PNP tradition.
Directors, Heads of Offices, Chiefs of Police, and Commanders are directly responsible for strict implementation, while Administrative Officers manage registries and reporting.
They must submit a quarterly report to the Office of the Chief Directorial Staff on mementos or souvenirs received by their units.