A Halloween costume sparked official action after National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chair Ralph Calinisan announced that a show-cause order will be issued to a party attendee who wore a police uniform during a Halloween event.
Calinisan revealed the move in a Facebook post, stressing that authorities will not tolerate unauthorized use of police uniforms. He shared photos showing the unnamed individual at what appeared to be a Makati Halloween gathering.
“Tomorrow, on behalf of all our policemen, I will issue a Show Cause Order against you and demand a public apology from you,” Calinisan said. “If we do not hear from you, expect a case to be filed against you. Respect your men in uniform.”
He also reminded the public that wearing Philippine National Police (PNP) uniforms without authority is an offense under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code.
“This use of the PNP uniform as a Halloween costume is total disrespect for our men in uniform,” he added.
The person involved, identified as Facebook user Dha Isidro, released a public apology, saying there was no intent to offend or misrepresent law enforcement.
“I am truly sorry and regret that my act of wearing a PNP-inspired costume, which offends the sensibilities of the dignified and respectable police in uniform, some of whom are even my good friends,” Isidro posted. “I have no intention to malign, cause hurt, or ridicule anyone or anybody with the wearing of the said costume.”
Isidro said the outfit was chosen purely for a costume party and not meant to imitate police authority.
Calinisan later reposted the apology and instructed Isidro to honor the summons and appear at his office on Monday morning.
