Bridging the gap between the police and the community has always been a serious challenge and a top-priority concern for every police organization across the globe. It became one of the fundamental principles in modern policing environment, significantly vital in the preservation of peace and order and the attainment of the community’s shared goals.
Sir Robert Peel, a British statesman known as the father of modern criminology, and in fact called the “Father of Modern Policing”, cited three core ideas which highlighted the indispensable role of the community in the administration of effective and efficient policing. Among the core ideas included are: the goal is preventing crime, not catching criminals; the key to preventing crime is to earn public support; and the police earn public support by respecting community principles. These concepts became the blueprint of modern policing in almost all countries in the world, including that being adopted by our Philippine National Police.
Under the leadership of Police General Benjamin Casuga Acorda, Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police, the Nation’s Peacekeeper has remained steadfast in its commitment in winning the hearts and minds of the community and eventually gain their trust and support. This is evident in the organization’s current Five Focused Agenda being advocated by Chief PNP himself, one of which, is the strengthening of Community Engagement as part and parcel, and, prerequisite in the successful PNP operations, specifically in enforcing the laws, and in the maintenance of peace and order, and public safety.
Through the Directorate for Police Community Relations, the Nation’s Peacekeeper reaffirmed its commitment and devotion towards prioritizing community engagement and collaboration, and in building partnership with the public to gain more trust and support from the Filipino people relative to the successful peacekeeping and safeguarding of the country. On May 22, 2023, PNP launches the Police-Community Policies Handbook which coincided with the Traditional Monday Flag-Raising Ceremony at the PNP National Headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Said PCR compendium of policies is developed by the Directorate for Police Community Relations, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance community engagement and foster stronger ties between the police and the community. The compendium serves as a comprehensive guide for PNP personnel, providing them with a clear framework and guidelines for effective and result-oriented community relations activities.
These policies underscore the PNP’s commitment in upholding transparency, accountability, and gaining trust within the community. It also outlines protocols for community outreach programs, cooperation with local stakeholders, and proactive measures to address common community issues and concerns, and successfully build mutual respect. By adhering to these policies, PNP aims to strengthen its partnership with the public and improve overall community safety and well-being.
Police Major General Mario A. Reyes, Director, DPCR, however, expresses gratitude to all stakeholders, including local government units, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders, for their invaluable support and inputs in developing the Policy Compendium. According to him, their collaboration reinforces the shared commitment to a safer and more secure country.
Police General Acorda, moreover, emphasized the importance of community-oriented policing and even encouraged all PNP personnel to embrace the said Compendium.
“The success of our mission to maintain peace and order greatly depends on the trust and cooperation of the community. This Policy Compendium will serve as our guide to foster positive relationships, empower communities, and ensure public safety,” he said.
This Policy Compendium will be reproduced and be implemented in all police units nationwide, while the Directorate for Police Community Relations will continuously review and refine these policies relative to the feedback of the community and its constantly evolving needs in the 21st Century.
