Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. highlighted the organization's dedication to transparency and accountability after the return of a PHP500-million insertion in its intelligence funds.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez assured the public of the PNP's commitment to fiscal discipline, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive for responsible public fund usage. The prompt return of the PHP500 million, added to the PNP's budget by a lawmaker, reflects the force's efforts to address budget discrepancies promptly.

During Senate discussions on the 2026 budget for the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla revealed the return of the funds. The PNP had initially received PHP1.3 billion for its intelligence operations for 2025.

Nartatez emphasized the PNP's adherence to government auditing and accounting regulations, ensuring that intelligence and confidential funds support legitimate national security and law enforcement operations. He instructed all PNP units to comply strictly with existing rules, warning that misuse of funds would lead to administrative and criminal consequences.

Nartatez reiterated the importance of fiscal integrity, stating, "it is our duty to ensure that every allocation is spent lawfully and purposefully."

In addition, Nartatez welcomed the release of a PHP3.39-billion fund from the Department of Budget and Management for the performance-based bonus (PBB) of police personnel. He noted that this bonus would significantly boost the morale of the police force dedicated to maintaining national order. The DBM indicated that eligible PNP personnel would receive a PBB equal to 45.5 percent of their basic salary as of December 31, 2023.