MANILA – The Philippine National Police has initiated a sweeping audit of its regional training centers after allegations surfaced that trainees were being made to shoulder part of their superiors’ housing costs through an illicit rent scheme.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered the review on Wednesday, tasking the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the Anti-Cybercrime Group to examine financial records and verify whether the alleged scheme extends beyond the Cordillera training unit where it was first reported.
Authorities are looking into lease arrangements spanning 2023 to 2025, which showed irregularities. While official rent was set at PHP3,000, trainees reportedly paid an extra PHP600, funds allegedly diverted to cover accommodations for Field Training Officers.
According to a PNP Training Service report dated April 19, 2026, the batches affected by the scheme had already graduated by mid-2025. However, the findings suggest the possibility of a broader, entrenched practice.
Nartatez emphasized that any form of financial exploitation within the ranks would not be tolerated, directing the Directorate for Education and Training to assist in case buildup against those implicated.
He also mandated a comprehensive audit of all trainee-related lease agreements, stressing the need for full transparency and accountability.
Officials found to have abused their authority for personal gain, he warned, would face immediate removal from the police service.
ia/xf
