MANILA(November 11) — The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has conferred a Plaque of Commendation on retired police general Hansel M. Marantan, citing his years in public service and resilience amid personal and professional challenges.
Marantan, now executive director of the Anti-Terrorism Council, received the recognition on November 9 at the Jesse M. Robredo Hall of the DILG-NAPOLCOM Center in Quezon City.
NAPOLCOM said the award recognized his journey in government service, including the difficulties he encountered during his career in the Philippine National Police and his continued involvement in public service after retirement.
His personal story was also featured in Sa Likod ng Tsapa (Beneath the Badge), a documentary that explores the experiences and sacrifices of people in uniform.
The film, which had a theatrical release in the Philippines and participated in international film festivals, brought Marantan’s story to a wider audience while raising broader themes of public duty, accountability and the human costs of police work.
NAPOLCOM said the commendation underscores the importance of recognizing not only the professional accomplishments of public servants but also the personal experiences that shape their careers.
However, recognition for public service also invites a broader consideration of the standards expected of those entrusted with state authority, particularly in law enforcement.
In policing, resilience and personal sacrifice are important, but public trust ultimately rests on professionalism, transparency and accountability.
A commendation recognizes an individual’s service; it does not replace the public’s right to examine the exercise of police power and the institutions responsible for ensuring that authority is used lawfully.
Defense witness traces payments to undocumented investment carried through successive corporations, raising questions over Duterte's business interests while...
