MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. warned that the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) modernization efforts will be meaningless if some of its members continue to abuse their authority.

“Aanhin pa ang pinaka-modernong kagamitan kung may iilang pulis pa rin ang umaabuso sa kapangyarihan?” Marcos said in his speech during the PNP’s 124th founding anniversary celebration in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Marcos noted that while the PNP now uses drones and other advanced technologies to enhance monitoring and response, the effectiveness of these tools depends on the integrity of the officers operating them.

“Technology will never replace the importance of your presence on the ground. These tools are only effective as the men and women who wield those tools,” he said, adding that criminals are also exploiting modern technology for illegal activities.

The President vowed to continue investigating and holding accountable police personnel found to be involved in corruption or other abuses.

“Inuulit ko: walang lugar ang katiwalian sa ating kapulisan,” he stressed.

Marcos also acknowledged honest and dedicated law enforcers, assuring them of the government’s full support in their mission to ensure public safety and peace.

This year’s PNP milestones include the “5-Minute Response Time Strategy” and the revitalized Emergency 911 Hotline, which the President said must be reliable “rain or shine” to regain public trust.

The event also honored awardees of the Medalya ng Katangitanging Gawa and other special citations for contributions to public safety, community engagement, and institutional development.