A new and sterling program was launched on October 12, 2024 by the Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) led by Police Brigadier General Lou F. Evangelista, PRO1 Director, entitled “Police Community Academy (PCA).” Designed to empower young leaders by providing them with essential tools and knowledge to actively participate in nation-building, and in nurturing a future generation of informed and engaged citizens, the Police Community Academy-Ilocos Sur Chapter brought diverse group of participants to the Provincial Farmers Livelihood Development Center in Vigan City. The participants included student leaders, representatives from government agencies, members of educational institutions and private organizations.
The Police Community Academy was first pilot-tested in Bauang, La Union in 2018, led by Ms. Daisy Sayangda, then President of the PRO1 Regional Advisory Council, and project proponent, PLtCol Ma. Leonora Teresa A. Dela Cruz, OIC, Regional Comptrollership, PRO1. It was based on an earlier initiative from the 2nd PMFC in Tayug, Pangasinan called the Student Crime Prevention Council (SCPC) and the Crime Prevention Leadership Development (CRIPRELD).
The launching of the PCA-Ilocos Sur Chapter, a regional extension of PRO1’s flagship program, drew broad support from numerous stakeholders, including the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Commission on Higher Educaton (CHED), Department of Education (DepEd), state universities and colleges, 501st Brigade, the Provincial Federation of Sangguniang Kabataan Presidents (PPSK), REACT Philippines, Inc., Regional Cluster Head of the National Youth Commission Regions 1 and CAR, and the Bannuar ti La Union Eagles Club.
In his keynote speech, Ilocos Sur Governor Jeremias C. Singson reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the academy, emphasizing that the future of the nation rests on the shoulders of today’s youth.
PBGen Lou F. Evangelista, PRO1 Director, expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support from both the private sector and the partner government agencies. He highlighted the academy’s core mission of instilling patriotism, civic responsibility, and leadership in the youth, thereby, ensuring a brighter and more secure future for the Philippines. According to PBGen Evangelista, PCA is a crucial platform that not only educates the youth but also strengthens the bonds between the police force and the communities they serve.
The PCA curriculum is designed to be both comprehensive and engaging, covering topics such as civic education, leadership development, and community engagement. Through its two-phase approach—an “Academic Phase” focused on lectures and theoretical learning, and a “Tactic Phase” involving practical demonstrations and community involvement—the academy equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for active civic participation.
Similar initiatives, such as the PCA program launch in La Union, was held at Father Burgos Gym, Saint Louis College, Carlatan, City of San Fernando, La Union on August 31, 2024, reflecting the growing momentum of the PCA across the region. In La Union, the program brought together students from across the province, with Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David encouraging participants to be role models in their respective communities. Gov. Ortega-David emphasized the importance of volunteerism and urged the youth to take on the role of peace and order champions, echoing the overarching goals of PCA. Also, Police Community Academy Ambassador Ms. Yzabelle S. Evangelista inspired the youth and urged them to be the “Bagwis” of the nation—exemplars of goodness and advocates of peace.
The program’s success is already evident, with over 3,500 students from various municipalities and educational institutions in Ilocos Sur, La Union, and other parts of Region 1 actively participating. These young individuals, many of whom are dependents of the Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, represent a cross-section of the next generation of leaders who are eager to make a positive impact on their communities.
By collaborating with local educational institutions, government agencies, and private sector partners, PCA is building a bridge between the youth and their communities, ensuring that the next generation is well-prepared to contribute to the nation’s development. Programs like PCA are vital in cultivating a sense of responsibility and leadership in young Filipinos, instilling values that will guide them in their personal and professional lives.
The Philippine Community Academy is more than just a training program—it is a solid movement towards building a matatag, maginhawa at panatag na buhay, one youth leader at a time. Dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas ang Gusto ng Pulis, Ligtas Ka!
