A regulation has been implemented by the Philippine National Police (PNP) that forbids its officers from having visible tattoos while they are on duty.
Since Gen. Rommel Marbil took over as commander, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo stressed, there has never been an order for any PNP employee to have their tattoos erased or removed. On the other hand, a memo circular has been released about tattoo exposure.
Those joining the PNP through lateral entry, such as line and technical units, PNPA cadets, and new patrol officers, are not allowed to wear visible tattoos, according to Fajardo during a press conference at Camp Crame.
Once Memorandum Circular 2024-023 is published, which takes effect 15 days after it appears in the Official Gazette and a newspaper with broad circulation, current employees who have tattoos are required to disclose them.
After the circular is put into effect, employees are not allowed to get any more visible tattoos, especially on parts of their bodies that are visible when wearing uniforms, like their arms, faces, heads, and necks. Aesthetic tattoos, such as those on the lips or eyebrows, are not subject to this rule.
In contrast to restricting individual liberties, Fajardo made it clear that the purpose of these laws is to preserve a uniformed service’s rules and traditions while also maintaining a professional look.
Employees have three months to pay for the removal of any visible tattoos. Repercussions for noncompliance could include pre-charge inquiries and other disciplinary actions.
Fajardo emphasized that while some view tattoos as a form of artistic expression, PNP members must adhere to strict guidelines and procedures.
According to the memorandum circular, officers who decline to have their visible tattoos removed may resign.
To uphold organizational norms and preserve professionalism, the PNP implemented the regulation after discovering that certain employees had visible tattoos.
Even if they are hidden, tattoos that are offensive, discriminatory, or immoral are forbidden. This includes designs that support sexism, racism, or unlawful activity.
While waiting for the circular to be published, officers who already have tattoos must sign an affidavit disclosing them.
A senior master sergeant in the PNP acknowledged the negative public opinions of uniformed personnel with tattoos in the Philippines and the significance of upholding professional standards inside the organization while expressing his willingness to follow the command.
