Question & AnswerQ&A (PNP-IAS)
The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) is a unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) created to serve as an independent, impartial, and objective investigative and adjudicatory agency within the PNP. It was created pursuant to Title V, Section 39 of Republic Act No. 8551, approved on February 25, 1998.
The mission of the IAS is to secure for the nation the evolvement of a well-disciplined, effective, efficient, and service-oriented Philippine National Police.
The Inspector General of the IAS is a civilian appointed by the President of the Philippines. The Deputy Inspector General holds the rank of Police Director.
The IAS has the following powers and functions: pro-active inspection and audit of PNP personnel and units; investigation of complaints and evidence gathering; conducting summary hearings on administrative cases; submitting periodic reports on personnel behavior and unit performance; providing assistance to the Office of the Ombudsman; conducting motu-proprio investigations in specified cases; and conducting background checks for promotions or assignments.
IAS conducts motu-proprio investigations into incidents of police personnel discharging firearms, incidents involving death or serious physical injury or human rights violations, evidence compromise or loss, serious injury to suspects in police custody, and violations of established rules of engagement.
Entry is voluntary for PNP personnel with at least five years of law enforcement experience and no derogatory records, preferably with investigative experience. New entrants without investigative background must undergo IAS specialization course and character background investigation, with at least two years remaining active police service and no pending administrative or criminal cases.
Promotion is based on merit, seniority, and availability of vacant positions, ensuring gender fairness. The IAS Executive Promotion and Placement Board (EPPB) evaluates candidates. Criteria include performance, accomplishments, education and training, neuro-psychiatric and physical fitness, eligibility, service and moral reputation, and experience and seniority.
IAS is organized at the national, regional, provincial, district, and city levels nationwide. It is headed by the Inspector General with Deputy IG as deputy. The National Internal Affairs Service has divisions like Administrative and Financial Management, Planning and Research, Inspection and Audit, Prosecution, Legal Affairs, and Investigation and Intelligence. Regional, District, and Provincial IAS offices correspondingly exist with designated heads and staff.
Maximum tenure is as follows: Deputy Inspector General – 4 years; Directors – 6 years; Provincial Superintendent, District Superintendent, and City Superintendent – 9 years; other positions higher than Provincial Superintendent – 6 years. Compulsory retirement is at maximum tenure or age 56, whichever comes first.
Personnel who join the IAS may not subsequently join other PNP units. IAS personnel are not allowed to sit in any committee deliberating on appointments, promotions, or assignments of any PNP personnel.