THE National Police Commission (Napolcom) has officially declared the completion of its zero case backlog, following the conclusion of its final summary dismissal and en banc session for calendar year 2025 held on Dec. 23.
During the en banc session, Napolcom successfully resolved the last six remaining cases, bringing to a close all pending cases within the commission, including a backlog that spanned more than 25 years.
“This is a historic day for the National Police Commission. Today, we did not just close six cases, we closed a chapter that spanned a quarter of a century. Zero backlog is no longer a target; it is now a fact. This is proof that decisive leadership, integrity, and hard work can dismantle even the most entrenched institutional problems,” Napolcom Chief Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan said.
The zero backlog initiative was Calinisan’s first marching order upon assuming office in April this year, setting the tone for sweeping internal reforms aimed at restoring public trust and ensuring timely justice.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla, ex-officio chairman of Napolcom, congratulated the commission for the landmark achievement.
“I congratulate the Napolcom for achieving the zero case backlog. Closing a backlog that spanned more than 25 years is no small feat. This accomplishment reflects strong leadership and a clear commitment to justice and accountability,” he said.
Also present during the en banc session were Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., who also serves as ex-officio commissioner, and regular commissioners Beatrice Aurora Vega-Cancio and Josephus Angan.
While the en banc deliberations remained confidential in accordance with Napolcom rules, the session was opened to the media immediately after to formally announce the zero backlog declaration.
Calinisan emphasized that the milestone marks not an end, but a new standard for Napolcom.
“Zero backlog is our baseline moving forward. Napolcom will never again allow justice to wait for decades. We owe that to our police officers, to the Filipino people, and to the generations who expect institutions that work,” Calinisan said.
With all pending cases resolved, Napolcom enters 2026 with a renewed focus on preventive oversight, timely adjudication and strengthened accountability mechanisms, ensuring that the commission remains responsive to the needs of the police service and the Filipino people it serves.
