Quezon City: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III announced a new, stricter firearms proficiency policy for all police officers, aiming to prevent the loss of innocent lives during operations.
According to Philippines News Agency, Torre plans to revisit and enforce firearms proficiency among officers, starting with those in top leadership positions by July. The initiative will then extend to personnel across all ranks, from patrolman to general. Torre emphasized the importance of taking proficiency standards seriously and committed to personally overseeing testing and exams. He asserted that he would step down if he failed to meet the standards himself.
The PNP chief stated that no one would be exempted from the proficiency standards, comparing them to the physical fitness test (PFT). He warned that commanders who fail the marksmanship tests would be removed from their positions. Torre highlighted the availability of simulation training provided by the PNP's Training Service to help officers improve their firearm handling skills.
Additionally, Torre announced the procurement of more bullets for practice, ensuring officers have sufficient resources for training. He acknowledged the high cost of bullets and stressed the need for effective use during practice sessions.
Meanwhile, the ongoing PNP Press Corps shootfest, a Level 1 Philippine Practical Shooting Association-sanctioned match, serves as both a training opportunity and a fundraising activity for emergency financial assistance for members facing harassment or attacks.
In conjunction with the firearms proficiency initiative, Torre also introduced a dedicated physical fitness program for mobile force personnel with irregular shifts. The program, scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays, encourages participation in various physical activities and is linked to the mandatory PFT. Torre warned against inaccuracies in reporting test results and reiterated the importance of maintaining a normal body mass index (BMI) for all police personnel.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo underscored that failing to meet the required BMI would result in being denied schooling, a key requirement for promotion. Torre's directive aims to professionalize the organization by ensuring that all police officers meet physical fitness and proficiency standards.
