24 Abril 2024, Miyerkulles
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30k to remove tattoos as PNP bans
By J.Lo
“Visible tattoos, especially on areas like face, head, neck, arms or any visible part while in uniform, are prohibited,” Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued policy prohibiting its personnel from wearing or sporting revealing tattoos.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo noted that since assumption of PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, there has been no directive to erase or remove tattoos of any PNP personnel. However, there is memorandum circular regarding bearing and sporting of tattoos.
She added that for existing personnel with tattoos, once necessary requirements are met and Memorandum Circular 2024-023 is published, they must declare their existing tattoos.
Memorandum circular, approved last March 19, will become effective 15 days after its publication on Official Gazette and newspaper of general circulation.
After circular takes effect, they are not allowed to add additional visible tattoos, according to PNP official.
She added that aesthetic tattoos, such as those on the eyebrows or lips, are exempted.
Fajardo clarified, though, that regulations aim to maintain professional appearance and are not curtailment of rights, but rather part of rules and traditions of uniformed service.
Regarding removal of tattoos, personnel are given grace period of three months to have visible tattoos removed at their own expense.
Fajardo said failure to comply may result in disciplinary measures, including pre-charge investigation.
She stressed that while some may view tattoos as form of creative expression, being in PNP means adhering to specific rules and policies.
She underscored importance of maintaining professional image and following organizational regulations.
Police officers who refuse to remove visible tattoos on their bodies as stated in the memorandum circular that was approved last March 19 are free to leave police force.
“If you cannot follow regulations, then PNP’s door is wide open for you to resign,” Fajardo said.
PNP released new policy after noticing that some police officers are bearing or sporting tattoos that are visible when they are in their uniform.
Tattoos are considered offensive, discriminatory and indecent are prohibited even if not visible. Among these are body designs advocating illegal activists, racism and sexism.
Police officers with existing tattoos are required to execute affidavit declaring their body art while memorandum circular is awaiting publication.
Police officer with rank of senior master sergeant would have the tattoos on his right arm removed in compliance with PNP’s latest directive.
Policeman identified himself as alias JP, has no problem with PNP’s order, he said is fair.
“Whether we admit it or not, in the Philippines, uniformed personnel who have tattoos are not yet totally accepted… public looks at them differently,” he said in interview with reporters.
Police officer entered PNP in 2009 and had his tattoo in 2013 for P6,000. He said he has started saving money as removal of tattoos costs P30,000.
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