Police Officers Issued Warning Over Overweight

The new Philippine police chief, Gen. Nicolas Torre III, has issued a warning to overweight officers, stating they must lose excess weight within a year or face removal from service.

Citing Republic Act 6975, Torre emphasized that officers must maintain a weight within five kilograms of the standard for their height, age, and sex.

While acknowledging possible medical exemptions, he noted options like administrative reassignment or disability discharge are being considered.

The directive applies to all ranks to build a more disciplined and physically fit police force.

“It is incumbent upon every police officer to maintain a physical appearance acceptable for a police officer,” she said.

Fajardo added that officers should begin monitoring their body mass index (BMI), but are free to choose their preferred fitness methods, especially those with health concerns.

“The directive does not dictate how you are going to lose weight, but of course, we will give considerations,” she concluded.