On Thursday, March 19, the Philippine National Police (PNP) celebrated the expanding influence of its female members, noting that they are “increasingly shaping the leadership landscape” within the organization.
Current data as of February 2026 reveals that women represent 22.08 percent of the PNP, totaling 52,223 out of 236,493 personnel. This figure is comprised of 43,847 uniformed officers, 8,098 non-uniformed employees, and 278 cadets. The upper echelons of the force also show significant female representation, including one police major general, five brigadier generals, and 125 colonels.
The PNP described these statistics as “a clear testament to the [national police’s] commitment to gender equality and merit-based advancement.“
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. remarked that the growing number of women in high-ranking positions signals a shift in the historically male-dominated agency. He emphasized that performance outweighs gender in the line of duty.
“Sa PNP, hindi gender ang batayan ng kakayahan — ang serbisyo at dedikasyon ang mahalaga (In the PNP, gender is not the basis of ability — service and dedication are what matter),” Nartatez said. He added, “Our women officers are out there leading, inspiring, and keeping every community safe.”
In observance of National Women’s Month, the PNP reaffirmed its dedication to empowering female personnel and ensuring they have equal access to career opportunities.| (PNA)
