Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 297)
PNP uniforms, insignias, and other accoutrements symbolize the discipline and image of every policeman, projecting a distinctive recognition exclusive to the Philippine National Police, representative of professionalism and character.
The regulation is needed because PNP uniforms and insignias are easily procured by any person, including unscrupulous individuals who may use them for personal gain or unlawful purposes, thereby degrading the image of the policeman and the PNP.
Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code (Republic Act 3815) penalizes illegal use of uniforms but does not cover manufacture and sale; Republic Act No. 493 pertains to the Armed Forces and Constabulary but not the PNP, creating a gap in regulation for PNP uniforms and insignias.
Section 1 prohibits the unauthorized manufacture, sale, and distribution of PNP uniforms, insignias, and other accoutrements. Violations can lead to closures, cancellation of business licenses, seizure of paraphernalia, administrative fines, and possible civil or criminal actions.
Such illegal use is penalized by public censure published in a newspaper of general circulation after notice and hearing, in addition to possible administrative, civil, or criminal actions as stated in Section 2 of the Executive Order.
Only manufacturers, sellers, or distributors accredited by the Philippine National Police and the National Historical Institute are authorized to manufacture, sell, or distribute PNP uniforms and accoutrements, as per Section 3.
The UESB approves the designs and specifications of the uniforms and other accoutrements, ensuring that all items meet the required standards before distribution and use.
The Chief of the Philippine National Police is tasked with issuing the rules and regulations necessary for the effective implementation of Executive Order No. 297.
All inconsistent orders, issuances, rules, and regulations or parts thereof are repealed or modified accordingly to conform with this Executive Order as stated in Section 5.