VACC backs bill setting PNP retirement age to 57

Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) President Arsenio «Boy» Evangelista on Tuesday expressed strong support for Senate Bill No. 2758, filed by Sen. Imee Marcos, which proposes to increase the mandatory retirement age for members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) from 56 to 57 years old.

Evangelista emphasized the importance of retaining experienced policemen who, at the age of 57, can still significantly contribute to the PNP's mission to protect and serve the public.

«VACC fully supports the retirement age at 57 for the PNP,» Evangelista stated, highlighting the bill's potential to enhance the police force's effectiveness. «Sayang kasi the wisdom and skills acquired during their tour of duty that can be used!» he added, underscoring how the wealth of experience gained by officers throughout their careers would continue to benefit the organization and the public.

VACC President Arsenio «Boy” Evangelista. Photo By: Mike De Juan

Senate Bill No. 2758, which Imee Marcos introduced, is seen as a strategic move to address the PNP's current personnel shortage while maximizing the potential of seasoned

officers.

SB 2758 seeks to align the retirement age of PNP officers with that of the AFP, ensuring that the institutional knowledge and expertise of seasoned police officers are retained to address personnel shortages and strengthen public safety efforts.

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In comparison, members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are required to retire at the age of 57, a policy that has allowed the AFP to maximize the service of its experienced personnel.

By allowing officers to serve for another year, the bill seeks to ensure that the skills and institutional knowledge gained over decades of service can still be used to meet the growing demands on law enforcement.

Evangelista pointed out the current shortage of PNP personnel, saying, „Kulang at the moment PNP personnel to protect and serve us! Age 57, they can still do a lot for the organization!“

Drawing from his personal experience, Evangelista illustrated that individuals can remain highly active and effective beyond the current retirement age.

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»In my case, I am 68 years old but I can