Guam Police Department: Order prohibits use of the sinahi while on duty

A sinahi is an object that holds cultural significance. It is worn with pride, connecting those who wear it with their past, heritage, family and holds special meaning.

But concerns from the rank and file were brought to the KUAM newsroom of an order handed down within the Guam Police Department by recently promoted Col. Joseph Carbullido that the use of sinahis are prohibited, citing they give an unprofessional appearance.

Officers in previous press conferences held, like these, have been seen wearing the sinahi and other cultural jewelry.

Speaking on the order is Sen. Chris Barnett, who is the Chair of the Public Safety Committee.

“So I heard about this from the rank and file and I believe it's stemming from an officer who was wearing the sinahi during a Guam Police Department press conference. It's Mes CHamoru and CHamoru hit, ta fan sen benidosu, we're CHamoru, that's something to be proud of. Wearing it during a press conference, I don't see it as an issue,” said Barnett.

GPD has general orders to follow. According to the general order for dress and personal appearance, it states that any type of visible ornamentation around the neck is prohibited while on duty whether in uniform or civilian attire

But the senator believes that especially during Mes CHamoru, it should be a time to embrace the culture.

Barnett said that there are more pressing issues they should focus on in GPD.

He said, “We talk about morale and retention, these things that come out. I think they really hurt morale and retention, I think officers are probably thinking, don't you have anything better to worry about.”

KUAM reached out to Col. Carbullido for a comment but as of newstime, have yet to receive a response. We also reached out to Chief Stephen Ignacio, who was unaware of such an order but added that he'll check.