Question & AnswerQ&A (PNP CIRCULAR NO. 2008-18)
Foreign Travel is the travel of PNP personnel abroad on official mission or personal business as defined in the circular.
The Secretary of the Interior and Local Government/Chairman, NAPOLCOM solely takes action (approval, disapproval, or deferment) on all FTA applications of PNP personnel as recommended by the Chief, PNP.
No PNP personnel due to retire within one (1) year shall be sent abroad on government funds except when directed by the President through the SILG to represent the Philippine government. Personnel retiring within one year may travel if the expenses are covered by the host organization or country.
Violations of general guidelines in paragraphs 6b and 6c are grave misconduct subjecting the personnel to administrative liability and possible criminal prosecution under RA 3019 and other laws. Other violations are classified as less grave offenses.
They must secure an approved Foreign Travel Authority (FTA), submit required documents (such as invitations, personal data sheet, endorsements), coordinate with departments like DFA, attend a pre-departure briefing, and comply with procedures for filing travel requests at least 30 days before departure.
The FTEB selects and recommends the best qualified PNP personnel for official missions abroad, ensuring only essential personnel travel considering qualifications, expertise, position, and future utilization.
Participation or attendance is limited to one foreign training or conference every two years, except for those designated as official representatives in international bodies like INTERPOL and ASEANAPOL.
A maximum of four (4) members of the Directorial Staff and only one (1) member of the Command Group, excluding the Chief, PNP, are allowed to travel abroad at any one time.
Official transportation shall be of economy class unless otherwise specified in the travel authority and approved by the President, in adherence to austerity measures.
Travel Documents include the travel authority, travel order, passport, visa, and other necessary documents required for travel.