The Philippine National Police Academy Alumni Association, Incorporated (PNPAAAI) strongly condemned the recent statements made by columnist Ramon Tulfo, claiming they unfairly tarnish the integrity of the PNPA and its graduates.
According to the group, the PNPA has a longstanding commitment to molding young men and women into capable, honorable, and service-driven leaders for the PNP, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and Bureau of Fire Protection.
“To assert that the negative actions of a few individuals are reflective of the entire institution is not only unfair but also diminishes the contribution of thousands of PNPA graduates who have served the nation with distinction, professionalism, and unwavering dedication,” the PNPAAAI said in a statement on Monday.
“The alleged involvement of certain PNPA graduates in criminal activities, which is still subject to investigation and due process, is an ungrounded call for the abolition of the Academy,” they added.
The group added that in every profession, including the police force, there are individuals who fail to uphold their oaths; however, it will not define the institution as a whole.
Furthermore, the PNPAAAI refuted Tulfo’s accusation concerning an alleged practice within the PNPA, claiming that it teaches cadets to suppress evidence or eliminate witnesses.
“Our faculty members, whether active or retired police officers, as well as civilian professors, are committed to instilling respect for human rights, integrity, and accountability among the cadets,” the group said.
The Alumni Association also opposed Tulfo’s suggestion that rookies should start at the lowest ranks and work their way up the hierarchy. They argued that this disregards the purpose of a structured officer training program, which is mandated by law.
They further emphasized that the PNPA equips its graduates with essential leadership and decision-making skills, allowing them to serve effectively as officers right from the start of their careers.
"The PNPAAAI stands united in defending the PNPA’s honor and excellence and no longer tolerates misleading narratives for media mileage that unfairly target the institution," the group said in closing.
They noted that Tulfo's columns frequently overlook factual accuracy and instead concentrate on assigning blame to individual personnel or their training institutions.
Tulfo’s statement arises from the allegations made against former PCSO General Manager Royina Garma and Napolcom Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo, who are accused of being responsible for the murder of former PCSO Board Secretary Wesley Barayuga.
Both Garma and Leonardo are graduates of PNPA.
