The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill raising the mandatory retirement age of Philippine National Police (PNP) uniformed personnel from 56 to 57 years old.
House Bill No. 8702 received 233 affirmative votes, with no negative votes and one abstention.
The measure seeks to amend Section 39 of Republic Act No. 6975, or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, to allow police officers to remain in service for one more year before compulsory retirement.
Supporters of the bill said the adjustment would help the PNP retain seasoned officers, preserve institutional knowledge, and make better use of the government’s investment in police training and professional development.
The proposed change is also expected to strengthen leadership continuity within the police force, particularly in units that rely on senior personnel with specialized operational and administrative experience.
The bill consolidates seven related legislative proposals seeking to update the retirement policy for police personnel.
It also aligns the PNP retirement age with that of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, whose compulsory retirement age was earlier raised from 56 to 57 under Republic Act No. 11939.
Advocates of the measure said the change recognizes the parallel roles of the military and police in protecting national security, maintaining peace and order, and responding to public safety concerns.
By keeping experienced officers in service for an additional year, the PNP is expected to improve operational stability, mentoring of younger personnel, and continuity in law enforcement programs.
The measure now moves closer to enactment after securing final approval in the House.