THE NATIONAL Police Commission in Western Visayas is investigating an alleged hazing. The complainant is a rookie cop who claimed he was “welcomed” by colleagues to his new assignment with a physical beating. It’s “tradition” kuno.
Right off the bat, this is disgraceful. What were the policemen thinking? Have they forgotten their badge? It is supposedly a sign of honor, dedication and pride.
Indeed it is. It also reminds policemen to keep their integrity intact. Policemen have been entrusted with the badge as a symbol of their worthiness as police officers; to serve and protect the people from whom they derive their power and authority; and to enforce the laws of the land without fear or favor.
A policeman’s badge is worn not to intimidate people but to command respect from them. Respect will come naturally to the profession if they are able to do their job fearlessly and properly – which will only make the sheen of their badges stand out more easily.
But the badge will be permanently tarnished once its wearer is unable to fulfill his duty, or engages in hazing. We are also sad that while policemen and soldiers often lay their lives on the line, playing a vital role in nation-building, they are also sometimes asked to do menial tasks. We do not think it is the job of a policeman to stand as a sentry, act as a bodyguard to rich politicians, or to carry the luggage of high-ranking government officials and their wives. That is the job of a private security guard.
The police’s reason for being is to serve the citizenry with the commitment of sacrifice and willingness to die in the service of God, country and people. Policemen’s badges, uniforms and titles all underscore the nobility of their profession that many people still look up to, especially in times of trouble and disasters. They also remind policemen of the virtues they must uphold – service, honor and justice.
