President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (PGMA) had signed into law a measure that would allow promotion for cops even those with pending cases, as long as it is in the performance of their duties. The signed law amend Republic Acts 6975 and 8551 also gives five years for undergraduate cops to finish the minimum requirement for police officers under the Philippine National Police (PNP). It entitles “An act Extending to Five Years Period for Complying with the Minimum Educational Qualifications for the Appointment of the PNP and Adjusting the Promotion System, Amending for the Purpose the Pertinent Provisions of RA 6975 and RA 8551 and for other purposes. RA 6975 effectively bars promotion for any police officer facing service-related charges, until they are cleared. Camp Dagohoy Information Officer P/Insp. John Gano cited that this is even if these charges are in furtherance of their duties as protectors of peace. Under the new law however, if after two years, the case has not been resolved, sued cops can be considered for promotions. Gano said the new law allows them to breeze through the minimum college requirement in the next five years as a good provision of a continuing education for police personnel.
