PNP orders removal of officers' visible tattoos, bans getting tattoos moving forward

The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced it's ordering its officers to have their visible tattoos removed and that it’s no longer accepting applicants with tattoos moving forward.

PNP spokesperson Jean Fajardo, in a press conference, said a memorandum circular was approved last March 19. It will become effective 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette and a newspaper of general circulation.

“For some, sinasabing creative art ito, expression of oneself, belief sa artistic side po nila,” Fajardo told reporters, “but in every right there are boundaries po. Dito ay nasa loob tayo ng uniformed service kasi pangit na naka-uniform ang pulis natin na tadtad ng tattoo.”

According to the memo, prohibited tattoos include those that are “extremist,” “ethnically or religiously discriminatory and offensive,” “indecent,” “racist,” and “sexist,” in nature. It also covers tattoos linked to “unauthorized” or “prohibited” groups.

But “aesthetic” tattoos like eyebrows, lips, or eyelids are allowed.

Fajardo said once the memo is approved, officers have three months to remove their (visible) tattoos. They’d also be required to submit an affidavit declaring they had tattoos ahead of the memo and vowing not to get some more.

Those who wouldn’t comply would undergo pre-charge investigation, according to Fajardo.

“Remember, noong pumasok ka sa PNP, you are expected na sumunod ka sa rules and regulations,” she noted.

“If you cannot follow the regulations, then maluwag po ang pinto ng PNP para kayo ay mag-resign,” added Fajardo. “Hindi naman po sapilitan ang mag-stay sa isang organization being governed by strict regulations.”