1

CRISOC 5
PUBLIC SAFETY ETHICS

Ethics defined. Ethics is a system of moral principles or moral standards governing conduct. It is a particular
system of principles and rules concerning duty; it is a system of rules and practice applied to a single class of
human actions.

The study and philosophy of human conduct, with emphasis on the determination of right and wrong.
Also known as the standard of character set up by any race or nation.

Examples of Ethics

1. Legal Ethics
2. Medical Ethics
3. Nursing Ethics
4. Police Ethics

Morals – pertaining to character and behavior from the point of view of right and wrong.

Ethics and Morals distinguished – while both the term ethics and morals refer to that type of behavior which
tends to become customary because of the approval or practices of the group and are thus essentially
synonymous, ethics ordinarily suggests the study of moral conduct or the principle underlying the desirable
types of human conduct; on the other hand, morals ordinarily refers to the human conduct itself. Ethics will
guide a person’s judgment concerning the morality of human acts whereas, moral is the application of ethics.

Why we study ethics?

1. Decisions (wrong ways and right ways of doing things)

2. To have an orderly social life.
3. To value life.

Professional ethics is the branch of moral science treats of the obligations, which a member of a profession
owes to the public, to his profession, to his brethren, and to his clients.

Moralist is a person who values or follows good conduct, even in the absence of religion.

Ethics and Action: Why Behave? (An Ethical Basis: Rules, Results and Relationships)

Our ethics comes from our religion, family background, culture and other sources. In many countries,
we cannot assume that all public servants share the same beliefs or background. That diversity is even more
apparent when we consider regional and global cooperation.

What should guide our behavior as public servants? It is helpful to look at three sources of ethics.
These are not normally in conflict – all three need to be taken together. They may be summarized as Rules,
Results and Relationships.

A. Rules - We accept rules for our personal behavior because we believe them to be given by divine
revelation, or because we believe them as necessary parts of a social contract to protect and further human
welfare. The philosopher Kant argued that there is a “universal law”, which he saw as a categorical imperative
– an essential requirement with which we must all comply. The authority of laws enacted by a government
depends on our recognition of its right to govern. People who choose a career in the public service may have no
difficulty with that. Historic agreements for the validity of government based on community, contract and
utility are, summarized by Osborn, 1999.

B. Results - The utilitarian principle focuses our attention on the consequences of our action. It has been
expressed traditionally as “seeking the greatest good for the greatest number”. That is difficult to
“operationalise”: imagine the public officers trying to estimate for their decisions as public servants what would
 2
bring the greatest good to the greatest number, and arguing about what would be the greatest good. However, in
practice they seek to avoid causing hurt.

Very often we judge actions as right or wrong because of the results they may be expected to bring.
That has always been recognized as true at the personal level, with a requirement that our freedom must be
limited to ensure we cause no harm to others. In doing so, there is a danger that we look at short-term effects
rather than the longer term. There is also a danger that we focus on avoiding harm more than in doing good
deeds and improving the quality of life for others. More recently there has been increasing concern about ways
in which their corporate policies and actions impact on the environment. However, some argue that the
utilitarian principle alone would be a dangerous guide for behavior because it allows the means to justify the
ends. “Someone who is not prepared under any circumstances at all to sacrifice the innocent, or to plan murder,
is not a utilitarian at all”. They may not be utilitarian, but that does not prevent them from taking a utilitarian
approach to the utilitarian ethic, using it when they judge actions by their consequences.

C. Relationships – Confusius proposed a “golden rule” of caring: “Do not do to others what you would not
have them do to you”. He spoke of a principle of reciprocity. For Confusius care and kindness were primary
virtues, especially care for one’s family. (This led to an interesting warning that too much emphasis on virtue
would make officials corrupt because they would favor their families. As officials, it was necessary for them to
be impartial). Jesus Christ expressed the “golden rule” as “In everything, do to others as you would have them
do to you, and claimed that this fulfilled the law and the prophets, seeing a concern for others and reciprocity as
being in accord with rules and revelation.

An Example.

The ethics for driving a car provides an example of the interplay between rules, results and relationships.
One aim is to reduce the risk of accidents. We “know” that our actions ought not to cause hurt to others, a
matter of relationships. We judge, as a society, what actions done by drivers might put others at risk, assessing
the results of how people drive. We agree as a society on rules that make accidents less likely. We all observe
a rule to drive on one side of the road.

Accountability and Action

If our actions are simply to obey instructions, accountability requires only the report that those
instructions have been obeyed (perhaps saying, where, when and how). If our actions require us to exercise
some discretion (to make choices, to take decisions) then to be accountable requires also an explanation. We
need to explain why we acted, as we did, not only report what we have done. We are accountable for the results
or outcomes of our actions, for the professional standards of our work, and for the effective use of resources
including financial resources. Our accountability need not be only to those who give a command.

For public service they must ultimately be accountable to:

A. Accountability in Government and in Civil Society – There is a network of accountability between the
different organs of State. The aim is usually to have some separation and balance of powers, so that no one part
of the system can dominate the others.
B. Accountability in Management - Public services are mostly hierarchical, with each officer accountable to a
manager. Sometimes, the lines of management accountability are blurred.

C. Accountability to the Public - Public servants are accountable to the public, that, in name, they are appointed
to serve. There has been increasing concern about this in the past few years, with an emphasis on becoming
directly accountable to “clients” or “customers”.

CHAPTER I

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND POLICE EHTICAL STANDARD

2
 3

A. INTRODUCTION
Professional conduct and ethical standards and a high degree of honesty are more essential for officers
and members of PNP than for any member of the society. This is so, because, they are entrusted with the
enforcement of the rules, regulations and ordinances created by City/Municipality and the laws of the land
created by the Congress that guide the conduct of society. A policeman’s violation or infraction thereof, or his
failure to enforce it, dishonor the law and the authority he represents.

All members of PNP shall abide and adhere to the provisions of Code of Professional Conduct and
Ethical Standards. Toward this end, a truly professional and dedicated law enforcer shall be develop in
promoting peace and order, ensuring public safety and enhancing community participation guided by the
principle that all public servants must at all times be accountable to the people.

They shall serve with utmost responsibility, integrity, morality and efficiency with due respects to
human right and signify as hallmarks of a democratic society. They shall at all times bear faithful allegiances to
the legitimate government, support and uphold the constitution, respect the duly constituted authority and be
loyal to the service.

Definition of Terms:

1. Neglect of Duty or Nonfeasance – is the failure to perform an act which one is obligated or permitted to do either by
law or directive due to omission or failure to recognize the obligation.

2. Irregularities in the Performance of duty/ Misfeasance- is the improper performance of some act, which
might lawfully done.

3. Malfeasance – is the intentional commission of a prohibited actor intentional unjust performance of some act
of which the party had no right.

4. Misconduct – is the wrong doing or violation of departmental procedures.

5. Incompetence – it is the manifestation of lack of adequate ability and fitness for the satisfactory performance
of police duties. This has reference to any physical intellectual quality the lack of, which substantially
incapacitates one to perform the duties of peace officer.

6. Oppression – an act of cruelty, severity, unlawful execution, domination, or excessive use of authority. The
exercise of the unlawful powers or other means, in depriving an individual of his liberty or property against his
will, is generally an act of oppression.

7. Dishonesty – is the concealment or distortion of truth in a matter of fact relevant of one’s office, or
connected with the performance of his duties.

8. Disloyalty to the Government – Consist of abandonment or renunciation of one’s loyalty to the Government
of the Philippines, or advocating the overthrow of the government.

9. Violation of Law – Presupposes conviction in court of any crime or offense penalized under Revised Penal
Code or any special law or ordinance.

10. Corruption – is a forbidden acts involving misuse of office for gain.

11. Favoritism – is the unfair “breaks” to friends or relatives (nepotism).

12. “Rotten Apples” – are either weak individuals who have slipped through screening process or succumbed to
the temptations inherent in police work or deviant individuals who continue their deviance in an environment
that gives them ample opportunity.

13. Deviance – behavior inconsistent with the norms, values or ethics.

3
 4
TYPES OF POLICE DEVIANCE:

1. Police Gratuity – is the receipt of free meals, services or discounts.

Chiseling – is when an officer is quite blatant in about demanding free services.

2. Police Shakedown – is when the police officer extorts a business owner for protection money.

3. Police Perjury – is usually a means to effect an act of corruption, leaving out certain pertinent pieces of
information in order to “fix” a criminal prosecution.

4. Police Brutality – is defined as excessive force, name calling, sarcasm, ridicule, and disrespect.

When citizen charges police brutality they maybe referring to number of things, including:
 command to move or go home
 field stops and searches
 threats or implied violence
 prodding (sundutin) with night stick or approaching with pistol
 the actual use of physical force

5. Police Profanity – refers to the use of obscene and profane (walang galang) language.

6. Misuse of Confidential Information – this normally involves the jeopardization of ongoing

investigations by leaking information to friends, relatives, the public, the press, or in some cases directly
to the criminal suspect or members of their gang.

SEX ON DUTY OR DUTY RELATED

1. Traffic Stops – to get closer look at a female or information about her.

2. Fox Hunting – stopping college girls to get the I’ll do anything routine.
3. Voyeurism – window peeping or interrupting lovers lane couples.
4. Victim Recontacts – consoling victims who have psychological needs.
5. Opposite Sex Strip Searches – touching and/or sex with jail inmates.
6. Sexual Shakedown – letting prostitutes go if they perform sex acts.

B. LAW ENFORCEMENT CODE OF ETHICS

As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard life and property;
to protect the innocent against deception, weak against oppression or intimidation and the peaceful against
violence or disorder; and to respect the constitutional rights of all men, liberty, equality and justice.

I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all/ maintain courageous calm in the face of
danger; scorn or ridicule; develop self restraint and be constantly mindful of the welfare of the others. Honest
in thought and deed in both my personal and official life. I will be exemplary in obeying the laws of the land
and regulations of my organization. What ever I see or hear of a confidential nature or is confided to me in my
official capacity will be kept ever secret unless revelation is necessary in the performance of my duty.

I will never act officiously or permit personal feelings, prejudices, animosities or friendship to influence
my decision; with no compromise for crime and with relentless prosecution of criminals. I will enforce the law
courteously and appropriately without fear or favor, malice or ill, never employing unnecessary force or
violence and never accepting gratuities in return.

I recognize the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith and accept it as a Public trust to be held so
long as I am true to the ethics of police service. I will never engage in acts of corruption bribery, nor will I
condone such acts by other police officers. I will cooperate with all legally authorized agencies and their
representatives in the pursuit of justice.

I know that I alone is responsible for my own standard or professional performance and will take every
reasonable opportunity to enhance and improve my level of knowledge and competence. I will constantly strive

4
 5
to achieve these objectives and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession…..Law
Enforcement.

“AS A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER, MY FUNDAMENTAL DUTY IS TO SERVE MANKIND”

The gist of this passage is contained in two words: “duty and service”. Too often we forget that law
enforcement is not just a job for which we are hired as one would hire a laborer or tradesman. It involves a
sworn duty. Some progressive police department now require that its officers reaffirm their oath each year in an
effort to drive home the message that is contained in this sworn oath. And to again remind the officer of the
essential relationship between his job and the free society in which he lives.

The word “serve” denotes the denial of one’s own pleasures and desire for the good of the person or
persons to be served. Service involves dedication and sacrifice of the giving of one’s self. These are words that
many find hard to swallow in this present day and age but the job of professional law enforcement requires a
special creed of man.

Professional law enforcement has no place for the officer whose philosophy of life is “what is it for
me?” In our present “awakened” society the crooked or dishonest law enforcement officer is finding it
increasingly more difficult to really profit from his job in a material way. He is rapidly becoming as out-of-
place as a horse and buggy on a modern freeway.

“TO SAFEGUARD LIVES AND PROPERTY; TO PORTECT THE INNOCENT AGAINST DECEPTION,
THE WEAK AGAINST OPPRESSION OR INTIMIDATION; AND THE PEACEFUL AGAINST
VIOLENCE OR DISORDER”

We must, however, understand some of the limitations that are present in a truly democratic society. In
such a society as ours, this task can often be a difficult one, because protecting the rights of the individual
means also protecting the right of the criminal. This is sometimes a hard pill for law enforcement officers to
swallow.

Because of this, some officers stray politically to the far right in an effort to either seek a system where
their job would be made easier, or to better protect the society that they have sworn to serve. It is easy for an
officer to become bitter when he has continually witnesses the ends of justice thwarted by red tape politics and
technicalities of the law. The more truly idealistic he is, the more frustrated he can become, especially if he
lacks a philosophy or understanding of his true purpose in the society which he serves. Why must the idealistic
officer suffer so? When a good carpenters does his best, in building a fine house, one that can be seen and
admired be all, he can stand back and look at his job with a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction. The
same applies to an artist or anyone in the skilled trades. Why not, then the policemen? Why must a good
policeman, who works hard for the ends of justice, see the products of his work so often crumble at his feet?

The answer is both simple and complicated. It is simple in that the policemen, unlike the tradesman,
works not with objects, but with people, wonderful and yet fallible people.

It is complicated in that the most unpredictable of all commodities, with which a person can work, is
man itself. It is the policeman’s relationship with people that necessitate that law enforcement becomes a
profession.

There is a lesson to be learned from the legions of officers before us who suffered so greatly from
broken spirits. The lesson is that our satisfaction in law enforcement must come from doing our job to the best
of our abilities, and not be dependent upon the final outcome of our cases.

“TO RESPECT THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OF ALL MEN TO LIBERTY EQUALITY AND
JUSTICE”

Respecting the rights of others is not of man’s natural qualities. It seems to be part of his nature to
suspect and persecute those who are in any different from him self. There is no perfect justice on this earth, nor
will there ever be, because man is not all knowing “nor” is he himself perfect. Still we must strive for a form of

5
 6
justice that represents our ultimate capability. This involves not only great effort on the part or very-person in
the community, but individual sacrifices as well.

One of the greatest areas of fault among police officers generally, is not so must a prejudice against the
criminal. For example, an officer soon learns from experience that a certain group of persons is often
responsible for the majority of the crimes committed such an offense. Such a prejudice could lead to the faulty
conclusion that he is the guilty person. This soon leads to a general feeling or prejudice against all those who
have been convicted of prior offenses, and an almost subconscious refusal to accord them the same right that the
Constitution provides for all persons.

Our present laws are such that they provide as fair a deal as is humanly attainable to all person subjects
to that law. Many officers feel that our system of jurisprudence is too lenient, and helps the criminal at the
expense of society as a whole. In many cases this is true. One alternative to this would be to have one for
“good” citizens, and another for “criminals”. The problem is one who is to decide which person comes under
which category. Prior convictions alone cannot be used for qualification. To allow soon change our form of
government into a totalitarian system.

Another alternative would be a “protective” society in which the people would be accorded a high
degree of protection, but in return would have few personal rights. This would be the old Roman philosophy of
“Salus Populi est Suprema Lex” (The safety of the people is the supreme law). Personal rights and public
protection are on opposite ends if a fixed scale. If we increase one, we decrease the other. When our society is
threatened by a state of emergency, one of the first steps in protection is restriction. An example of this is the
application of curfew hour. If no one is allowed on the property of another and protection is afforded to him.
However, such conditions are certainly not very conductive to a free democratic society.

“I WILL KEEP MY PRIVATE LIFE UNSULLIED AS AN EXAMPLE TO ALL”

One of the first things that a law enforcement officer must learn is that he has no private life. Every
citizen should be entitled to his own private life yet when a person accepts the calling of law enforcement, as a
voluntary measure, he must be willing to offer his privacy as a sacrifice to the good of the community which he
serves. If a law enforcement officer could hide from his neighbors the facts that he is a policeman, then his
private life could be his own. This, however, is impossible. If a policeman has a family, his occupation will
become known in the neighborhood within a few days at the most. If he is single, and keeps to himself, he may
keep the secret a little longer, but if he is engaged in active law enforcement within his community, it is
inevitable that his neighbors will become aware of it. Once this is known, he will become the Object of
constant observation.

Many will be watching the officer, hoping to observe some irregularity that will further justify their
negative feelings towards “cops”. Others will watch in hopes of catching the officer committing some traffic
violation so that they can accuse him and all policemen in general of hypocrisy. This will help justify their own
misdeeds concerning traffic violations for which they feel they were unjustly given tickets.

Another great danger in this area is that of the officer’s personnel morals. An officer spends a great deal
of time dealing with moral degenerates and persons of little conscience. If he is not constantly on guard these
people can have a negative influence on him. Female offender and female friends of offenders are often willing
to offer their bodies to police officers in hopes of receiving some leniency should they or their friends be
arrested. Since most police officers work at nights, they come in contact with women who also work at night,
such as car hops café waitresses, bar maids, theater usherettes and similar occupation of being promiscuous, and
it is very easy for a law enforcer to be blackmailed, which can have a negative effect in the struggle for
professional recognition. The citizens of a community are very alert to transgressions of a moral nature, and
they will quickly withdraw their needed support of any law enforcement agency in which the selfish desires of
its officers betray their professional calling.

“MAINTAIN COURAGEOUS CALM IN THE FACE OF DANGER, SCORN OR RIDICULE AND

DEVELOP SELF RESTRAIN”

6
 7
Most officers are prepared to face physical danger and the public expects it. This is due to the fact that
when most people think of police work, they think of high- speed chases with guns blazing and similar
situations in which the officer’s life is in constant danger.

Fortunately, the aforementioned danger amounts to but a small fraction of the officer’s work routine.
The threat for which he is not prepared and on which can affect him greatly, is public scorn or ridicule. There is
no doubt that some officers have taken the job because of a need for the power of an authoritative position. It
comes as quite a shock to them that the badge, uniform and gun mean very little unless there is a man behind
them. Respect must be earned. It can not be bought with a badge and a uniform.

In a democratic form of government, a police officer is a public officer and as such is a servant to the
community. Instead of being above reproach or ridicule, he must expect to receive his position, as part of his
job. It is not easy to control one’s temper when being subjected to unnecessary and unsatisfied scorn or
ridicule. Punching the perpetrator in the mouth will hurt him physically, but psychologically he will sense
victory in that he knows that he “got to the officer”. Nothing will hurt him more than being ignored. Through
practice, even the officer with temper can learn to control it. For the professional law enforcement officer it is
“must”. When subjected to scorn and ridicule,, it often helps just to consider the source.

“WHATEVER I SEE OR HEAR OF A CONFIDENTIAL NATURE OR THAT IS CONFIDED TO ME IN

MY OFFICIAL CAPACITY WILL BE KEPT SECRET UNLESS REVELATION IS NECESSARY IN THE
PERFORMANCE OF MY DUTY”

Some officers feel that there is a difference in that the information obtained by the doctor and attorney is
freely given with the understanding that will be confidential whereas the information obtained as in the part of
the law enforcer can be the result of many sources or forms of investigation.

How it was obtained is really not important. The fact that it was obtained as part of the officer’s
occupation, and is usually information that he would not have otherwise obtained had he not been in that field,
is the key point.

This information should never leave the department or the person retaining it unless it is in the interest
of justice. An officer should even be careful not to reveal information to his wife. An officer’s wife is often
very tempted to reveal information of a confidential nature to her neighbor women in an effort to show them the
importance of her husband’s job, and to gain status in the eyes of the neighbor women.

“I WILL NEVER PERMIT PERSONAL FEELINGS, PREJUDICE, ANIMOSITIES OR FRIENDSHIP TO

INFLUENCE MY DECISIONS”

It is difficult to know which desire is strongest in some persons, to help our friends or to hurt our
enemies. Both desires are part of our human nature. Helping our friends can be very good thing in itself, but
when it involves an inequality in the administration of justice we are

defiling the oath we made to the community in which we serve. In police work, there is ample opportunity to
both hurt enemies and help friends, and it takes a person of strong character to properly perform his duties under
these circumstances. Without professional convictions, this can be impossible.

“I WILL NEVER ACT OFFICIOUSLY”

One of the faults that is common to new officers is that they often act officiously. They appear to the
public to be over-impressed with their own importance. In a way this is natural because it is associated with
pride and a new officer is usually very proud for his is a noble undertaking. However, a law enforcement
officer must always guard against having this pride misinterpreted by the public as being merely officious.

In most cases of apparent officiousness it is simply a matter of the officer not knowing how to act. Most
police academe greatly neglects the area of teaching officer how to act, how to play the role that is expected of
him. There are so many facts that have to be poured into the recruit’s head, that it leaves little time for role-
playing.

The majority of the people who make contact with a law enforcer during his hour of duty are not
criminals. The majority of the people receiving tickets from an officer are normally law abiding, upright
7
 8
citizens of the community, and they are usually embarrassed enough by being caught in a traffic violation
without being talked down to or treated like a criminal. Judges often report that a common reason for a person
appearing in traffic court is not so much to contest the facts of the offense, but as to file a complain about the
demeanor of the officer issuing the citation.

“WITH NO COMPROMISE FRO CRIME AND WITH RELENTLESS PROSECUTION OF CRIMINALS I

WILL ENFORCE THE LAW COURTEOUSLY AND APPROPRIATELY WITHOUT FEAR OR FAVOR,
MALICE OR ILL WILL”

The term “with no compromise for crime” means that crime will not be knowingly permitted. It does
not mean that the officer must perform his duties to the “letter of the law” without taking into consideration the
“spirit of the law”. If the Code of Ethics will be examined, nothing will be found in it to the effect that an
officer must obtain convictions and send people to prison for long periods of time. It does state, however, that
he must do the best of which he is capable, and that his actions must be ethical. No man can predict or
guarantee the final results of any action. Only God can do this, man can only be responsible for his immediate
actions. If an officer does a good job and the, criminal is released by the courts, the blame rests not upon him
but upon the courts, or the society itself.

The modern law enforcement officer has a new motto “Be firm but fair”. He does not have to be a
“theory bound” sociologist just because he treats criminals like human beings.

Our religious teachings stress the theme that we should hate sin but love man. This means that we may
hate crime but not the criminal. For some it is easy to hate criminal, but in due time, they will be consumed by
the flame of this hatred. Some officers feel that their job is to punish, and that in order to punish someone you
must vent your anger upon them. Our present system of criminal justice assigns no duties of punishment to the
law enforcement officer. The role of punishment belongs to the people in Corrections and Penology. Getting
angry, other than as an officer only makes his job more difficult.

The modern professional law enforcement officer let the criminal call the tune as to his own treatment.
The officer can and must be as tough as the situation demands yet there is no personal vindictiveness in the way
he treats the criminal. His tome of voice and demeanor usually indicate that he will not be walked on, yet his
actions are fair.

“I WILL NEVER EMPLOY UNNECESSARY FORCE OR VIOLENCE”

At times the use of force in the performance of one’s duties is an absolute necessity. There is no
escaping it. It is extremely difficult to judge exactly whether or not the force used in

a particular situation was necessary or not. The use of force or violence during interrogations will often
produce immediate confessions, but it should be avoided on ethical ground in that the interrogator seldom
knows with complete certainty that the suspect is guilty, and the use of force or the “third degree” on an
innocent person is certainly a miscarriage of justice as well as violation of professional conduct. As a means of
punishment for the criminal, it would be out of place for it is not the function of law enforcement to punish
criminals. This belongs to the courts and prisons.

From a practical viewpoint, unnecessary force or violence should be avoided during interrogations
because if the judge even suspects that force was used to obtain a confession, it would be thrown out of court,
and chances are the case would be lost. It is difficult enough for modern professional law enforcement officer
to convince the courts that their methods of interrogation were “above board’ because of the reputation that law
enforcement had thirty or more years ago. In a society that is so conscious of their rights as ours is today, the
use of force or violence as a common practice would invalidate nearly all of the confessions that reached.

“I WILL NEVER ACCEPT GRATUITIES”

The topic of accepting gratuities causes many long and hearted discussions among modern police
officers. It is one in which both ethics and relationships enter the picture. Gratuities take two main forms first,
is the gratuity given by a person with the sole intent of receiving something in return; second, gratuity that is
given solely but of a respect for law.

8
 9
Those who favor gratuities usually feel that the second form is all right but not the first. They feel that
the key to gratuities is as follows: “Will this in any way affect the proper performance of any duties”. In other
words, if the officer were to observe the person, giving the gratuity, commit some violation whether it be an
hour or day later, would be in all conscience be able to treat him the same as a total stranger?

Those members of law enforcement who developed this code, were certainly aware of the complexities
of this particular area, but the use of the word “never” in relation to accepting gratuities, indicated that they felt
that this was a necessary and essential prerequisite to professional law enforcement. To be truly professional
we must first be ethical, we must do what is actually describe, not merely what we would like to be desirable.

“I RECOGNIZE THE BADGE OF MY OFFICE AS A SYMBOL OF PUBLIC FAITH, AND I ACCEPT IT

AS A PUBLIC TRUST TO BE HELD SO LONG AS I AM TRUE TO THE ETHICS OF POLICE SERVICE”

The essence of this section is one of the most overlooked and forgotten facets of law enforcement by the
man in the field. It is this that distinguishes the difference between law enforcement and the ordinary job. It is
this that enables an officer to suffer the difficulties and problems that make the held, at times, so frustrating and
discouraging. Police administrators would do well to place more emphasis upon the swearing-process. It
should be made vary formal and similar to the initiation of many fraternal organizations.
The chief of police should see that the recruit is not issued a badge or allowed to put on a uniform until
he is thoroughly familiar with the code of ethics and especially the above section. He should be made to
understand that he is one of the selected, and that his job is a public trust that must be earned. The new officer
should also understand that nay personal reward will not be obtained from the public itself, for the public is a
difficult master, if there is a personal reward, it can only come for the officer himself or from knowing the true
significance of the job and the essential role that it plays in society. Perhaps the greatest reward is the self-
respect and satisfaction that comes from the knowledge that the job was done in a truly professional manner.

“I WILL CONSTANTLY STRIVE TO ACHIEVE THESE OBJECTIVE AND IDEALS DEDICATING

MYSELF BEFORE GOD TO MY CHOSEN PROFESSION….LAW ENFORCEMENT”

Proficiency in law enforcement involves many factors. It involves mental moral and physical
conditioning. They are all important aspects. The officer who let him self slip

physically is certainly not be able to protect society. The officer who is in good physical condition has more
confidence in his ability, and, this is sense by those with whom he deals, and as a result he finds that it is
necessary to exert authority as much as it might be otherwise. Unfortunately, most police department requires a
stiff physical agility examination before this area is either forgotten or greatly neglected. It is left up to the
individual officer to keep himself in shape.

Another way in which the professional officer may keep abreast is to devote so many hours each week
to reading professional law enforcement books, journals or magazines that are now available.

Since most of this reading will be on the officer’s own time, it is essential that he develop the initiative
that is so common to other professions. The Law Enforcement Code of Ethics has been broken down and
discussed in details in an effort to awaken the reader’s awareness of the importance of the code as a means of
achieving professional standing. However, knowing and understanding the code of ethics is not enough. It
must be practiced and be reflected on the lives of police officers.

C. CANONS OF POLICE ETHICS

The following are the canons of Police Ethics

1. Primordial police responsibility
2. Limitation of police authority
3. Knowledge of the law and other responsibilities
4. Use of proper means to obtain proper ends.
5. Cooperation with public officials
6. Proper conduct and behavior
7. Conduct toward the community.
8. Conduct in arresting law violators
9. Firmness in refusing gifts or favor
10. Impartial presentation of evidence
9
 10
11. Attitude toward police profession

1. Primordial police Responsibility – The primary objectives of police is the prevention of crime, policeman
knew too well that he has committed his life to defend and protect the rights of the citizen and uphold the law at
all cost.

2. Limitation of Police Authority – The police officer as an upholder of the law must know its limitation upon
him in enforcing the law, thus:

a. He must be aware of the limitations, which the people, through law, have placed him.
b. He must recognize the center of the democratic system of government, which gives person, or group of
persons, absolute power.
c. He must insure that he does not pervert its true character.

3. Knowledge of the law and other responsibility

a. The policeman shall constantly /devotedly apply himself to the principles of the laws, which he is sworn
to apply.
b. He will make certain of his responsibilities in the particular field of enforcement, seeking aid of his
superior in matters technically or in principles are not clear to him.
c. He shall make special effort to fully understand his relationship with law enforcement agencies,
particularly on matters of jurisdiction, both geographically and substantively.

4. Use of proper means to obtain proper ends.

a. The policeman shall be mindful of his responsibility to have strict selection of methods in discharging
the duty of his office.
b. Violation of law or public safety and property on the part of the officer are intrinsically wrong.

c. The employment of illegal methods, no matter how worthy the end, is certain to encourage disrespect for
the law and its officers. If the law is to be honored, it should be honored first by those who enforce it.

5. Cooperation with public officials

a. The policeman shall cooperate fully with the other public officials in the performance or authorized
duties, regardless of party affiliation or personal prejudices.

6. Proper conduct and behavior

a. The policeman shall be mindful of his special identification by the public as an upholder of law.
b. Police laxity of conduct or manner in private life, expressing either disrespect for the law or seeking to
gain special prevail, cannot but reflect upon in the policeman and the police service.
c. The community and the services require that the policeman leads the life of decent and honorable
person, following the career of policeman gives no special pre-requisite.

7. Conduct towards the community

a. The policeman shall be mindful of his responsibility to the community.

b. He shall deal with individuals of the community in the manner calculated to instill respect.
c. He shall conduct his official life in a manner that will inspire confidence and trust.

8. Conduct in arresting law violator

a. Policeman shall use his powers of arrest in accordance with the law with due regard to the rights of the
citizens concerned.
b. He shall, at all times, have a clear appreciation of his responsibilities and limitation regarding the
detention of the accused.

c. He shall conduct himself in such a manner as will minimize the possibility of having to use force.
d. He shall cultivate a dedication to the people and the equitable upholding of the law whether in the
handling of the accused or law-abiding citizen.
10
 11

9. Firmness in refusing gifts or favors

a. Policeman representing the government bears heavy responsibility of maintaining, in his conduct, the
honor and integrity of all government institution.
b. He shall guard against placing himself in a position in which the public can reasonably assume that
special consideration is being given.

10. Impartial presentation of evidence

a. Policeman shall regard the best possible of his duties as a public trust and recognize his responsibilities
as a public servant.
b. He shall strive to make the best possible application of science to the solution of the crime and in the
field of human relation.
c. He shall strive for effecting leadership and public influence in matters affecting public safety.
d. He shall appreciate the importance and responsibility of his office, and hold police work to be an
honorable profession rendering valuable service to the community.
e. Through study and experience, a police officer can acquire the high level of knowledge and competence
that is essential for the efficient and effective performance of duty. The development that should be
pursued constantly.

D. PROFESSIONAL POLICE PRINCIPLES

The following are the professional police principles:

1. Prevention of crime and disorder

2. Cooperation of the community
3. Unreasonable force reduce community cooperation
4. Use of reasonable force when persuasion is not sufficient
5. Impartial enforcement of laws
6. The community are the police
7. Police should not usurp judicial powers
8. Rules of engagement impartially observed
9. Reduction of crime and disorder
10. Police discretion

1. Prevention of Crime and Disorder

The basic mission for which the police exist is to prevent crime and disorder as an alternative to the
repression of crime and disorder by police force and severity of legal punishment.

2. Cooperation of the community

a. The police must secure the willing cooperation in the voluntary observance of the law to be able to
secure and maintain the respect and support of the community.
b. The ability of the police to perform their duty is dependent upon the community support of police
existence, actions, behavior and ability of the police to secure and maintain community respect.

3. Unreasonable Force Reduce Community Cooperation

a. A police officer should never employ unnecessary force or violence and will use only such force in
the discharge of duty as in reasonable in all circumstances.
b. Force should be use only with the greatest restraint and only after discussion, negotiation and
persuasion have been found to be inappropriate or ineffective. While the use of force is occasionally
unavoidable, every police officer will refrain from applying the unnecessary infliction of pain or suffering and
will never engage in cruel, degrading or inhuman treatment of any person.

4. Use of Reasonable Force when Persuasion is Not Sufficient

11
 12
a. The police should use reasonable force to the extent necessary to secure observance of the law or to
restore order only when the exercise of persuasion, advice and warning is found to be insufficient to attain
police objectives.
b. No violence or unnecessary force shall not be subject to any greater restrain than is necessary for his
detention.

5. Impartial Enforcement of Laws

a. The police seek and preserve community favor, not catering to community opinion, but constantly
demonstrating absolutely impartial enforcement of laws, without regard to justice and injustice of the substance
of particular laws.
b. Impartial enforcement of laws on all individual members of the society without regard to their race or
social standing.

6. The Community are the Police

a. The police at all times should maintain relationship with the community that gives really to the
historic tradition that the police are the people.
b. The police are the only members of the community who are in pain to give full time attention to
maintain peace and order which are incumbent on every citizen in the interest of the community welfare.

7. Police Should Not Usurp Judicial Powers

The police should always direct their actions strictly toward their functions and never appear to usurp
the powers of judiciary by avenging individuals of the state of authoritative judging guilt or punishing.

8. Reduction of Crime and Disorder

The test of police efficiency is the reduction of crime and disorder until totally eradicated not by
evidence of police present and action dealing with the community.

9. Rules of Engagement Impartially Observed

a. Policemen engage in anti-crime operation always consider the safety and security of who might be
caught in the crossfire or arm encounters.
b. The use of force including firearm is justifiable only by virtue of the Doctrine of self-defense and
Defense of a stranger.
c. The use of force, specially firearms should be applied only as a last resort, when all other peaceful and
non-violent means has been exhausted.
d. The use of force especially firearms, should be confined only in lawless elements and the responding
PNP unit. This is inherent in the police service in which the profession, the armaments and safety life of every
PNP members are dedicated to the protection and safety of the people.

10. Police Discretion

a. A police officer will use responsibly the discretion vested in the position and exercise if within the
law. The principle of reasonableness will guide the office’s determinations and the officer will consider all
surrounding circumstances whether any legal action shall be taken.
b. Consistent and wise use of discretion, based on professional policing competence, will do much to
preserve good relationship and retain the confidence of the public. There can be difficulty in choosing between
conflicting courses of action. It is important to remember that a timely word of advice rather than arrest-which
may be correct in appropriate circumstances can be a more effective means of achieving a desired end.

The Police Core Values

The police service is a noble profession and demands from its members specialized knowledge and
skills and high standard of ethics and morality. In this regard, the members of the PNP must adhere to and
internalize the enduring core values such as:

a. Love of God
b. Respect for authority
c. Respect for women
d. Respect for the sanctity of marriage
e. Stewardship over material things
f. Responsible dominion
g. Truthfulness
12
 13

The Police Officer’s Creed

1. I believe in God, the Supreme Being a Great provider, the Creator of all men and everything dear to me. In
return, I can do less than love Him above all, seek His guidance in the performance of my sworn duties and
honor Him at all times.

2. I believe that respect for authority is a duty. I respect and uphold the constitution, the laws of the land and
the applicable rules and regulations. I recognize the legitimacy and authority of the leadership, and follow and
obey legal orders of my superior officers.

3. I believe in selfless love and service to people. Towards this end, I commit myself to the service of my
fellowmen over and above my personal convenience.

4. I believe in the sanctity of marriage and the respect for women. I shall set the example of decency and
morality, and shall have high regard for family life and chastity.

5. I believe in responsible dominion and stewardship over material things. I shall inhibit myself from
ostentatious display of my property. I shall protect the environment and conserve nature to maintain ecological
balance. I shall respect private and public properties and prevent others from destroying it.

6. I believe in the wisdom of truthfulness. I must be trustworthy and I shall speak the truth at all time as
required by my profession.

PNP STAND ON BASIC ISSUES

The deployment and employment of the PNP personnel require the organization and its members to bare
their stand on the following basic issues.

1. PNP Image - The image of any organization affects the esprit de corps, morale and welfare of members and
sense of pride to the organization. Thus, all members of the PNP should act in a manner that would reflect best
on the PNP and live by the PNP’s core values.

Police must endeavor to avoid negative values such as:

1. Immodest living –outside of modest living

2. mistress maintenance- bigamous or polygamous life
3. absenteeism- sick with “malingeritis”, and tardiness
4. hoodlum alliance- maintaining pickpockets and alliance with crime syndicates
5. bata-bata- “nakasandal sa pader” syndrome
6. hate syndrome- napag-initan or pina-initan
7. discourtesy – undesirable conduct and without regards to others (usually breeds trouble)
8. Indiscipline- lack of discipline, no self-control
9. gossip/double talk – discordant, confusing psychological conduct

2. Career Management, the Key to Professionalism - Its improper implementation will greatly prejudice the
personnel professionalization process as regards procurement, promotion, assignment, placement, training,
awards and retirement. To address these flaws, the PNP shall formulate a stringent policy and strictly
implement the human resources development system, compatible to equitable distribution of procurement, fair
promotion, rationalized approach in assignment, skill development, immediate grant of reward, and decent
living upon retirement.

13
 14
3. Police Management Leadership - The effectiveness of the law enforcement is reflective to the managerial
capabilities and competent leadership of men and women who run the PNP organization. It is therefore a
“must” that these attributes be the primary basis for consideration in the selection of personnel for employment
and deployment purposes.

4. Equality in the service –There shall be judicious equitable distribution of opportunity to prove one’s worth in
the police service. The problem on inequality thru class orientation and factionalism, both real and perceived,
premise on favored assignment, inequitable opportunity, of training, unfair granting of promotion, and untimely
awarding of achievements will create an atmosphere of demoralization. The result is inefficiency and lack of
teamwork to the detriment of the organization. It behooves therefore on the PNP leadership to address the
situation. The civilian character of the organization requires adherence to the rule on merit and fitness system
and to dissociate the above process from class orientation and factionalism.

5. Delicadeza – In consonance with requirements of honor and integrity in the PNP, all PNP members must
have the moral courage to sacrifice self-interest in keeping with the time –honored principle of delicadeza.

6. Police lifestyle - The PNP shall endeavor to promote lifestyle for every member of the organization that is
acceptable and respectable in the eyes of the public. They must be free from greed, corruption and exploitation.
The public expects a police officer to live a simple, yet credible and dignified life.

7. Political Patronage – All PNP members must inhibit themselves from soliciting political patronage in matters
pertaining to assignment, awards, training and promotion.

8. Human Rights – All PNP members must respect and protect human dignity and man’s
inalienable rights to life, liberty and property.

9. Setting Example – All PNP members shall set good example to their subordinates and follow good example
from superiors.

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

Section 1. Standard of Police Professionalism

All PNP personnel shall perform their duties with excellence, competence, integrity, intelligence and
expertise in the application of specialized skill and technical knowledge.

Section 2. Police Professional Conduct

All members of the PNP shall observe the following professional conduct:

1. Commitment to Democracy- Uniformed PNP members commit themselves to the democratic way of life and
values and maintain the principle of public accountability. They shall at all times uphold the Constitution and
be loyal to our country, people and organization above loyalty to any person or organization.

2. Commitment to Public Interest- All PNP members shall always uphold public interest over and above
personal interest. All government properties, resources and powers of their respective offices must be
employed and used effectively, honestly and efficiently, particularly to avoid wastage of public funds and
revenues. All PNP personnel must avoid and prevent the “malversation of Human Resources”, “malversation
of Government time” and malversation of Government property and funds.”

Malversation consists not only in misappropriation or converting public funds or property to one’s
personal use but also by knowingly allowing others to make use or misappropriate them. (Labatogos v.
Sandiganbayan, G.R. 71581, 21 March 90) Even if his story about the theft of the funds were true, he would
still be liable for malversation under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code for it was his gross negligence that
made the larceny possible. A public officer accountable for public funds by reason of the duties of his office,
commits malversation if he “shall appropriate the same, or shall take or misappropriate or shall consent or
through abandonment or negligence, shall permit any other person to take such public funds or property wholly
or partially.” (Art.217, Revised Penal Code)

14
 15
The subsequent restitution of the missing funds does not exempt the accused from liability for the crime
of malversation. (Duroy v. Sandiganbayan, G.R. 69459, 15 June 89)

Malversation is committed either intentionally or by negligence. The dolo or the culpa present in the
offense is only a modality in the perpetration of the offense. Even if the mode charged differs from the mode
proved, the same offense of malversation is involved and conviction thereof is proper. A possible exception
would be when the mode of commission alleged in the particulars of the indictment is so far removed from the
ultimate categorization of the crime that it may be said due process was denied by deluding the accused into an
erroneous apprehension of the charge against him. (Cabello v. Sandiganbayan, G.R., 93885, 14 May 91)

3. Non- Partisanship- PNP members shall provide services to everyone without discrimination regardless of
party affiliation in accordance with existing laws and regulations.

4. Physical Fitness and Health- All PNP members shall strive to be physically and mentally fit and in good
health at all times. Toward this end, they shall undergo regular physical exercises and annual medical
examination in any PNP Hospital or Medical Program of the PNP.

5. Secrecy Discipline- All PNP members shall guard the confidentiality of classified information against
unauthorized disclosure, including confidential aspects of official business, special orders, communications and
other documents, roster or any portion thereof of the PNP, contents of criminal records, identities of persons
who may have given information to the police in confidence and other classified information on intelligence
material.

Records refers to “any paper, book, photograph, motion picture, film, micro-film, sound recording,
drawing, chart, map or other document of any physical form or copy thereof, that has been made or received by
any entity or its successors as evidence of the objectives, organization, functions, policies, decisions,
procedures, operations or other activities of the government or because of the information contained therein.”

6. Social Awareness- All PNP members and their immediate family members shall be encouraged to actively
get involved in the religious, social and civic activities to enhance the image of the organization but without
affecting their official duties.

7. Non-Solicitation of Patronage- All members shall seek self-improvement through career development and
shall not directly or indirectly solicit influence or recommendation from politicians, high-ranking government
officials, prominent citizens, persons affiliated with civic or religious organizations with regard to their
assignments, promotions, transfer or those of other members of the force, nor shall they initiate any petition to
be prepared and presented by citizens in their behalf. Moreover, they shall advise their immediate relatives not
to interfere in the activities of the police service particularly in the assignment and reassignment of personnel.

8. Proper Care and Use of Public Property- PNP members shall be responsible for the security, proper care and
use of public property issued to them and/or deposited under their care and custody. Unauthorized use of public
property for personal convenience or gain and that of their families, friends, or relatives is strictly prohibited.

9. Respect for Human Rights- In the performance of duty, PNP members shall respect and protect human
dignity and uphold the human rights of all persons. No member inflict, instigate or tolerate extra-judicial
killings, arbitrary arrests, any act of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and
shall not invoke superior orders or exceptional circumstances such as a state of war, a threat to national security,
internal political instability or any public emergency as a justification for committing such human rights
violations.

10. Devotion to Duty- All PNP members shall perform their duties with dedication, thoroughness, efficiency,
enthusiasm, determination, and manifest concern for public welfare, and shall refrain from engaging in any
activity which shall be in conflict with their duties as public servants.

11. Conservation of Natural Resources- All members of the PNP shall help in the development and
conservation of our natural resources for ecological balance and posterity as these are the inalienable heritage of
our people.

12. Discipline- They shall conduct themselves at all times in keeping with the rules and regulations of the
organization.
15
 16

Tenets of Discipline

All policemen at all levels shall adhere to the eight tenets of discipline, which include the following:

a. One of the first signs of discipline is the stage of orderliness and cleanliness of the policeman’s place or
work. If a police station is unkept, people cannot expect the kind of positive response to their needs.
b. All police actions must be characterized by courtesy and discipline.
c. All objectives of the PNP must always be for the public interest and not private interest. The people
must feel that they are welcome to approach any members of the PNP for assistance.
d. All citizens must be treated with dignity and respect.
e. All police actions must be in accordance with the law. Respect for human rights and other laws of the
land must be primordial concern in the exercise of Police duties.
f. Basic police service must be rendered, equitably for all citizens and must not be given in exchange for
any favor, reward or condition.
g. Involvement of police personnel in syndicated crime particularly illegal gambling must not be tolerated.
h. There is no substitute for leadership by example. Police Commanders, as model of public service, must
show proper behavior not only to their subordinates but also to the people.

13. Loyalty- Above all, PNP members must be loyal to the Constitution and the police service as manifested by
their loyalty to their superiors, peers and subordinates as well.

14. Obedience to Superiors- All PNP personnel shall obey lawful orders and be courteous to superior officers
and other appropriate authorities within the chain of command. They shall readily accept whenever they are
assigned anywhere in the country. Therefore, it is a taboo for any personnel to petition in court or in any public
forum his assignment.

15. Command Responsibility- In accordance with the Doctrine on Command Responsibility, immediate
Commanders/Directors shall be responsible for the effective supervision, control and direction of their
personnel and shall see to it that all government resources shall be managed, expended or utilized in accordance
with laws and regulations and safeguarded against losses thru illegal or improper disposition.

POLICE ETHICAL STANDARDS- shall refer to established and generally accepted moral values. Ethical acts
to be observed are the following:

1. Morality- All PNP shall adhere to high standard of morality and decency and shall set good examples for
other to follow. Hence among others, and in no instance during their terms of office shall they be involved as
owners, operators, managers or investors in any house of ill-repute or illegal gambling den or other places
devoted to vices; nor shall they patronize such places unless on official duty, and tolerate operating of such
establishments in their respective areas of responsibilities. They shall be faithful to their lawfully wedded
spouses.

2. Judicious use of Authority- PNP members shall exercise proper and legitimate use of authority in the
performance of duty.

Law of the Jungle

A PNP member, who happens to be victim of assault upon himself in his capacity
as an agent of a person in authority, cannot take the law into his own hands. Such being the case, he has to ask
police assistance to apply for search warrant and serve such warrant as any other citizen would ordinarily do if
ever he is a victim or a complainant of any act punishable by law.

The basic foundation of the rule is based on the fact that society could not exist in a group of people who
are living in a territory unless they govern themselves by rule and regulations, because if they were not- law of
the jungle will prevail.

The term “Law of the Jungle” is derive from the word jungle itself, because in the jungle, in order that
the “King of the Jungle” the lion could continue to live or exist, it has to kill its fellow creatures and/or use them
for food. But man is higher than animals. He is wise and uses his power to think, unlike animals that they are
only governed by their instincts.
16
 17

3. Integrity- PNP members shall not allow themselves to be victims of corruption and dishonest practices in
accordance with the provisions of RA 6713 and other applicable laws.

Integrity: Closely related to honesty, integrity is the firm and incorruptible adherence to the code of
moral values. To truly follow the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics requires not only firmness but great inner
strength and character.

4. Justice- PNP members shall strive constantly to respect the rights of other so that they can fulfill their duties
and exercise their rights as human beings, parents, children, citizens, workers, leaders, or in other capacities and
to see to it that others do likewise.

5. Humility- All PNP members shall recognize the fact that they are public servants and not the masters of the
people and toward this end, they should perform their duties without arrogance. They should also recognize
their own inadequacies, inabilities and limitations as individuals and perform their duties without attracting
attention or expecting the applause of others.

6. Orderliness- All PNP members shall follow logical procedures in accomplishing tasks assigned to them to
minimize waste in the use of time, money and effort.

7. Perseverance- Once a decision is made, all PNP members shall take legitimate means to achieve the goal
even in the face of internal or external difficulties, and despite anything which might weaken their resolve in the
course of time.

CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

General Statement- The PNP adopts the generally acceptable customs and traditions based on the desirable
practices of the police service. These shall serve as inspiration as the PNP endeavors to attain its goals and
objectives.

Definition of Terms:

1. Customs - established usage or social practices carried on by tradition that have obtained the
force of law.

2. Traditions - bodies of beliefs, stories, customs effect of an unwritten law.

3. Courtesy - a manifestation or expression of consideration and respect for others.

4. Ceremony - a formal act or set of formal acts established by customs or authority as proper to
special occasion.

5. Social Decorum - a set of norms and standards practiced by members during socials and other functions.

POLICE CUSTOMS ON COURTESY

1. Salute- salute is the usual greeting rendered by uniformed members upon meeting and recognizing persons
entitled to a salute.

2. Salute to National Color and Standard- Members stand at attention and salute the national color and standard
as it pass by them or when the national color is raised or lowered during ceremonies.

3. Address/Title- Junior in rank address senior members who are entitled to salute with the word “Sir”.

4. Courtesy Calls- The following are the customs on courtesy calls:

a. Courtesy call of newly assigned appointed member.

PNP members who are newly appointed or assigned in a unit or command, call on the Chief of the
Unit or Command and to other key personnel for accounting, orientation and other purposes.

17
 18
b. New Year’s call.
PNP members pay a new year’s call on their commanders and/or key official in their respective areas
of responsibility.

c. Promotion call.
Newly promoted PNP members call on their unit head. On this occasion, they are usually given duly
recognition and congratulations by their peers for such, deserved accomplishment.

d. Exit call
PNP members pay an exit call on their superiors in the unit or command when relieves or reassigned
out of the said unit or command.

e. Courtesy of the Post.

The host unit extends hospitality to visiting personnel who pay respect to the command or unit.

f. Rank has its own Privilege (RHIP).

PNP members recognize the practice that different ranks carry with them corresponding privileges.

POLICE CUSTOM ON CEREMONIES

1. Flag Raising Ceremony- The PNP members honor the flag by hoisting it and singing the National Anthem
before the start of the official day’s work.

2. Flag Lowering Ceremony- At the end of the official days work, the PNP members pause for a moment to
salute the lowering of the flag.

3. Half-Mast- The flag is raised at half-mast in deference to deceased uniformed members of the command.

4. Funeral Service and Honors- Departed uniformed members, retirees, war veterans or former PC/INP
members are given vigil, neurological services and graveside honors as a gesture of farewell.

5. Ceremony Tendered to Retirees- In recognition of their long, faithful and honorable service to the PNP, a
testimonial activity is tendered in their honor.

6. Honor Ceremony- Arrival and departure honor ceremonies are rendered to visiting dignitaries, VIPs, PNP
officers with the grade of Chief Superintendent and above and AFP officers of equivalent grade, unless waived.

7. Turn-over Ceremony – The relinquishment and assumption of command or key position is publicly
announced in a Turn-Over Ceremony by the out-going and in-coming officers in the presence of the immediate
superior or his representative. Outgoing Commander/ Director should not leave his post without proper turn
over. Turn over includes turn over of properties or equipment and Human and material resources.

8. Wedding Ceremony – During marriage of PNP members, a ceremony is conducted with the participants in
uniform and swords drawn

9. Anniversary – The birth or institutional establishment of a command or unit is commemorated in an

Anniversary Ceremony.

POLICE CUSTOMS ON SOCIAL DECORUM

1. Proper Attire – PNP members always wear appropriate and proper attire in conformity with the occasion.

2. Table Manners – PNP members observe table etiquette at all times.

3. Social Graces – PNP members conduct themselves properly in dealing with people during social functions.

4. Uniform/Appearance – The public looks upon PNP members as distinctively a man among men. It is a
welcome sight when PNP members wear their uniform properly wherever they may be. Since disciplined PNP
members are best exemplified, by those who are neat in appearance and wearing the prescribed uniform, they
must therefore observe the following:
18
 19

a. Wearing of prescribed uniform

- Wearing as part of the uniform, awards and decorations earned in accordance with the prescribed
rules and regulations.

b. Adherence to haircut prescribed by rules and regulations.

5. Manner of Walking – every PNP member is expected to walk with pride and dignity.

OTHER POLICE CUSTOMS

1. Visiting the sick – PNP members who are sick in the hospital, their residence or any place of confinement
are visited by their immediate commanders or other available officers of the unit in order that their needs are
attended to.

2. Survivor Assistance to Heirs of Deceased Members – When PNP members die, a survivor officer is
designated to render maximum assistance to their legitimate bereaved family until all benefits due shall have
been received.

3. Visiting the Religious Leaders – The PNP officers visit religious leaders in their area of assignment to
establish or maintain rapport and cooperation between the different religious leaders and the PNP.

4. Athletics – All PNP members indulged in physical fitness activities to insure that their proper physical
appearance and bearing are maintained with the waist line measurement always smaller than the size of his
chest and in conformity with the standard set forth by organization.

5. Happy Hours – Usually on Friday or any other day suitable for the occasion, PNP members gather together
at their PNP club for a light hearted jesting or airing of minor gripes.

TRADITION- is a body of beliefs, stories, customs and usage’s handed down from generation to generation
with the effect of an unwritten law.

1. Spiritual Beliefs – The PNP members are traditionally religious and God loving persons. They attend
religious services together with the members of their family.

2. Valor – History attests that the Filipino law –enforcers have exemplified the tradition of the valor in
defending the country from aggression and oppression. They sacrificed their limbs and lives for the sake of
their countrymen whom they have pledged to serve.

3. Patriotism – The PNP members are traditionally patriotic by nature. They manifest their love of country
with a pledge of allegiance to the flag and a vow to defend the Constitution.

4. Discipline – The discipline of PNP members are manifested by instinctive obedience to lawful orders and
through spontaneous actions towards attainment of organizational objectives guided by moral, ethical and legal
norms.

5. Gentlemanliness – The PNP members are upright in character, polite in manners, dignified in appearance,
and sincere in their concern to their fellowmen.

6. Word of Honor – The PNP members’ word is their bond. They stand by and commit to uphold it.

7. Duty – The PNP members have historically exemplified themselves as dedicated public servants who
perform their tasks with a deep sense of responsibility and self- sacrifice.

8. Loyalty – The policemen are traditionally loyal to the organization, country and people as borne by history
and practice.

9. Camaraderie – The binding spirit that enhances teamwork and cooperation in the police organization,
extending to the people they serve, is manifested by the PNP members deep commitment and concern to one
another.
19
 20

POLICE OFFICERS PLEDGE (POP)

1. I will love and serve God, my country and people;

2. I will uphold the Constitution and obey legal orders of the duly constituted authorities;
3. I will oblige myself to maintain high standard of morality and professionalism;
4. I will respect the customs and traditions of the police service; and
5. I will live a decent and virtuous life to serve as an example to others.

The police Officer’s pledge should be recited during the following occasions.

1. Flag hoisting and flag lowering ceremonies, jointly with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
(Pannunumpa sa Watawat)
2. PNP Training/course opening and closing ceremonies.
3. Seminars on moral values internalization
4. other ceremonies

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

The rigid application of fundamental principles in police work is necessary to avoid human rights violation
and maintain respect of the profession, they are:

1. “The people has the responsibility to prevent and control crime, disorder and oppression by
influential/political groups, abusive soldiers, tyrannical policeman, and decadent society.”
2. “The police has the responsibility to recognize that the fulfillment of its functions is dependent upon
community approval of its existence, and on its ability to obtain and maintain responsive support and
participative cooperation.”
3. “The police has the responsibility to recognize that in order to secure and maintain the approval,
support and cooperation of the public, it has a collateral responsibility of securing the willing
assistance of the public in the task of securing observance of law.”
4. “The police has the responsibility to recognize that when the community cooperates and assists the
police it diminishes proportionately the need for the use of physical force and compulsion in
achieving law enforcement objectives.”

CHAPTER II
POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS

INTRODUCTION: The PNP as an organization is a part of the community it serves. Every police officer
shall concern himself on maintaining a meaningful relation with the community. In his daily activities, he is
guided constantly by strong sense of responsibility, courtesy and sincerity. Good service is often a matter of
how a person presents himself to the public. Courtesy, however, must be coupled with firmness in order to
command respect.
Community relation is like a three-legged stool. Each leg is of an equal importance in holding the stool
upright. One leg is public relations in its traditional sense. Another leg is community service. The third leg is
community participation, and this is facet of the total community relations’ job that is being emphasized today
in police and community relations program.
In effect, it involves an inter-professional or framework approach to a wide number and variety of
community problems in which the police and other social institutions have common stake. Stated otherwise, we
learn from one another as we develop respect for those who are in some ways different from ourselves.
This suggests that problem solving can be an exciting educational experience. It involves the idea of a
police officer as a community leader, profoundly engaged in the preventive policing that is the metabolism of
effective police and community relations as distinguish from tactical policing, concerned only with what is to be
done after the fact of a prior or major disorder. It is who portray the police officer as a “professional citizen”,
gradually to rid the police officer of what has been called the PARIAH complex.

Definition of Terms
20
 21

1. Police – is a group of person s established, maintain and organized for keeping order, safety, protection of
lives and properties and for prevention and detection of crimes.

2. Community – refers to the civilian populace in cities, municipalities or Public in general, and shall used
interchangeably with public, citizenry, society or private sectors.

3. Police Ideal – is the expected essence of perfection, sympathetic, courteous intelligent honest and in control
of his emotions and temper at all times. It also includes courage and highest sense of dedication to duty.

4. Personal Media – Implies the use of rallies, meetings, speeches and house to house visits to the community.

5. Mass Media – implies the use of radio, television and a motion pictures in transmitting information to the
public.

6. Barangay – is the basic political unit of Filipino nation that implements the policies of the national and local
government.

7. Propaganda – defined as the planned use of public or mass communication media.

POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS - It is the sum total of dealings between the police and the people it
serves and whose goodwill and cooperation it craves for the greatest possible efficiency in the service.

OBJECTIVES OF POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS - The following are the main objectives of
Community Relation from the viewpoint of Law Enforcement and Community safety.
1. T o maintain and develop the goodwill and confidence of the community for the people.
2. To obtain cooperation and assistance.
3. To develop public understanding and support and appreciation for the service of the people.
4. To create broader understanding and sympathy with the problems and needs of the public.
5. To facilitate law enforcement and community.

6. To build public opinion in favor of the police.

7. To achieve the Police purpose or preserving the peace, protection of life and property, and the
prevention of crime.

Types of Police Community Relations - The basic ingredients in the effective observance of police
community relation include the following:

A. Public Information Program- designed to bridge any communication gap between the police and public.
Every PNP unit is expected to conduct and develop a good workable public information program and this is the
basic among the four programs of community relation.

The following are the activities Implemented by Public Information Officers.

1. Conduct of barangay tanod seminars.
2. Conduct of barangay meetings to inform the barangay officials regarding trends and other police
community problems.
3. Police station commanders assign a place in police station for barangay leaders so that they can work
together and provide coordination.
4. Produce and distribute brochures, advising the people on how to protect themselves in their homes and
premises.
5. Conduct environment sanitation seminars.
6. Conduct troop information or educational and historical lectures in all units offices of Police districts.
7. Discuss with high school students and parents/teachers association about drug abuse prevention and
control.
8. Conduct cleanliness, saturation or information drive where notices of such deficiencies are issued.
9. Established police counseling centers in zones/barangays to provide advise to barangay leaders on crime
prevention and control.

B. Public Relation Program- This is designed to maintain harmony and mutual support between the police and
the community. Every PNP unit from station level up to higher level, shall have a Public Relations Officer to
21
 22
look after the Public relation aspects of police work. The mission of PRO is to gain public support for police
policies and to win citizen’s cooperation in the program and procedure of the police station in order to facilitate
the accomplishment of police task.

Activities Implemented by Public Relation Officer

1. Conduct face to face communications including dialogue with the public.
2. Attend social cultural activities of the barangay, such as birthdays, weddings, wake and others.
3. Attend multi-social ugnayans, which include religious sectors, schools, barangay civic organizations and
government agencies.
4. Sending letters of appreciation to citizen whom assists the police in their work.
5. Conduct first aid and traffic safety education.
6. Promotion of manpower development for out of school youth.
7. Sponsorship of youth athletic activities.
8. Assist immediate in settling dispute at barangay level.

C. Psychological Program – This is designed to condition both friendly and hostile public thereby insuring
facilitating the attainment of police objectives. This program is designed to influence the opinions, emotions,
attitudes and behaviors of the community so that they will behave in a manner beneficial to the police
particularly the PNP in general, either directly or indirectly. It will condition the citizenry to adhere to the laws
of the land and dissuade them in committing crimes. These may be spoken, written, pictorial or musical forms.
These may be information ideas, doctrine, or special appeal disseminated to influence the opinion,
emotions, attitudes or behavior of specified group. It may through the publication of timely leaflets, pamphlets,
slogan, billboards, and other media designed to improve not only the PNP image but also individual members of
the force. PNP personnel are in good position to conduct psychological operation because of their direct contact
with the people in their respective areas.

The police unit in the provinces knows the ideological temper and peculiarities, including the susceptibilities of
the people in the localities. Psychological direction should be an integral part of police operation because of the
reason that, use of force cannot alone solve the problems of
dissidence and lawlessness. Police assigned in the Psychological Operation Program should be equipped with
basic knowledge on psychological principles and must devote time for “heart-to-heart” talk or dialogue with the
people, particularly the youth.

Activities Implemented by Psychological Operation Officer;

1. Conduct seminars for barangay officials, police civic relation officers, school officials to enable them to
understand home defense activities.
2. Promote seminars among barangay leaders regarding community relation activities.
3. Identify income generating projects/activities.

Teach- ins, live- ins and Barangay. To demonstrate the sincerity and concern of the PNP for the welfare of
the people in the community, and to make its Psychological Program effective, it may be necessary for
appropriate members of PNP to conduct “teach- in” and “live-in” within the community. These are particularly
effective in the rural but could be practiced sparingly in the cities.Teach-ins.

Members of the PNP assigned to conduct Psychological Operations may gather small group of residents,
including persons of influence in the community and give lectures or engage the group in forma l conversation.
Individuals conducting the teach-in strive to become intimate with the group to identify their personal problems
and offer sincere suggestions on how to solve them, but always in support to the police mission of eradicating
crime and lawlessness. The lectures and conversations

22
 23
should take several hours and much as possible extends up to nighttime. The termination of such teach-ins, the
police conducting the same expect to gain personal friendship and high credibility among the citizens in the
community. These activities may be repeated in as many communities as are necessary, with priority for places
where the police finds big obstacles in the accomplishment of its enforcement mission.

Live-ins. The live-ins is detailed and more extensive version of the teach-ins. Police officer assigned to
conduct live-in should preferably be a long time resident, if not native born citizen of the place where the live-in
is conducted. The same techniques employed in teach-ins may be used in the conduct of live-ins. The
conductor resides with a resident of known probability and good reputation as a law abiding citizen, for at least
two days, depending upon the evaluation of the situation of the conductor. In this activity, it is necessary for the
conductor to bring his own food and not be a burden to the family with which he will live. He may help in the
daily chores such as chopping firewood, fetching water and accompanying the folks to church, social gathering
during the live-in. The conductor of the live-in may go to the extent where and when advisable, donating
medicines from the PNP stocks and performing first aid. He should look into most urgent problems of the
family with whom he is conducting the live-ins in order to find out what assistance he could extend. The
assistance may have to take the form of a donation of vegetable seeds to the family, helping write letter to
relatives, bank or official of the local/national government to expedite monetary claim and others. Whatever be
the problems of the family, the conductor of the live-ins seeks to see how he can help gain the best support with
the family and eventually support the police. The conductor of live-ins should as much as possible, involve
members of neighboring families and other who wish to join, during the informal talks or family circle
gathering.

The Barangay. The barangay is the basic political unit of the Filipino nation that implements policies of
national and local governments. Next to family circle, it is necessary to involve the Barangay Chairman and the
members of the Barangay Council in the group with whom the teach-ins or live-ins is conducted. The Barangay
Chairman, Barrio Captain, Barangay Leader and Barangay Council members shall, within their respective
districts or barrios, assist the regular police agencies in the maintenance of peace and order. For this purpose,
such officials, in addition to their other functions, discharge or perform the following responsibilities and duties.

1. To report immediately to the law enforcement/police authorities concerned, the occurrence of crime,
accident, public disturbance or public nuisance of which he has personal knowledge or which may
brought to his attention.

2. To report immediately to the law enforcement/police authorities the presence of any unknown criminal
or suspicious character in his jurisdiction.
3. To conduct surveillance on suspicious activities or groups within his district or barrio and to report
immediately to the police any positive findings or information gathered.
4. To conduct surveillance of crime-breeding areas in the barangay and report his observation to the law
enforcement officers.
5. To assist police authorities in tracing the whereabouts of missing persons, arresting escape prisoners and
other fugitives from justice and recovering stolen properties and confiscating contrabands.
6. To assist police authorities and other competent authorities in the service or the execution of warrant and
other judicial processes.
7. To coordinate closely with and actively assist law enforcers in the drives against all forms of vice,
smuggling, carnapping, drug addiction, juvenile delinquency, violation of special laws and all other
forms of lawlessness.

D. Civic Action Program – This program is designed to maintain and encourage community development.
The CAP is an activity that makes the police officer a friend and partner of the people for progress as well as
their defender. It can range upward from basic individual act of courtesy of self-help, up to major engineering
projects. The CAP shall be concerned with Public welfare consistent with law enforcement duties. As a law
enforcer, he should also be involved in the development and promotion of program and projects that would
enhance the public image of the police not only as the guardian of the peace but also initiator of meaningful
activities on promoting the social and economic interest of the community.

Activities Implemented By Civic Action Officer

1. Conduct of free reflexology programs.
1. Assist the Philippines National Red Cross on blood donation campaign by exerting extra effort in
appealing to barangay officials.
2. Conduct free medical and dental civic action community.
23
 24
3. Conduct free deforming of affected children in depressed areas.
4. Assisting the citizens in case of transportation strike and other similar cause.
5. Develop and maintain cleanliness and beautification of surroundings.
6. Attend to backyard gardening, tree planting and greening projects.

THE MAJOR STRUCTURE COMPONENTS OF PCR

1. POLICE INFORMATION AND EDUCATION- Are communication activities utilizing the various forms
of media geared towards creating consciousness and awareness among target audience on facts and issues vital
to the development of an efficient, respected and supported police force.

2. POLICE COMMUNITY AFFAIRS - Are activities outside law enforcement but which necessitates PNP
support and or participation, the end result of which ultimately contribute to better appreciation and an
enhanced support to the PNP in whole in part by the populace.

THE SUBCOMPONENT OF POLICE INFORMATION AND EDUCATION

1. Community Information- Community Information are activities utilizing the various forms of media
directed towards the public at large designed to increase their consciousness and knowledge of facts and issues
for purpose of enhancing law enforcement, counter insurgency and crime prevention efforts, increasing crime
solution efficiency to include weakening of the will of the criminal elements and insurgents and enlightening
other groups of individual critical to the government in general and the police organization in particular.

2. Institutional Information - Institutional Information are activities utilizing the various forms of media
directed towards the public at large designed to generate trust, confidence and popular support for the PNP or
simply enhancing public perception and knowledge about the PNP as an institution of the government.

THE SUBCOMPONENT OF POLICE COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

1. Community Assistance and Development- these are activities outside the field of the law enforcement
under taken upon the initiative of the PNP unit of personnel for the purpose of enhancing life as a means of
drawing the support, appreciation and support of the public towards the PNP.

Examples:
1. Skills, Livelihood, Cooperative Development
2. Sports, Socio cultural Development
3. Medical, Dental Outreach Services
4. Tree Planting

2. Community Inter Relations- these are activities outside the field of law enforcement under taken upon the
initiative of other government agencies- governmental organization, and or individual citizens whereby a PNP
unit or personnel actively contributes time, money and or service as a means of drawing the support,
appreciation, and cooperation of the public towards the PNP in whole or in part.

3. Community Organization and mobilization- these are activities revolving around the accreditation of
existing groups or creation of new ones with the end in view of having allies within various sectors in the
community who could be tapped to assist the conduct of law services. Community works and the like.

THE COMPONENTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PCR PLAN AND ITS OBJECTIVES:

The two components of the plan are, INTERNAL REFORM and GAINING OF INSTITUTIONAL
SUPPORT. The aim is to improve the image of the PNP and reassure the general public that they can depend
on the PNP to be their protector and guardian in order to hasten and facilitate community mobilization for anti-
crime efforts.

A. NET WORKING OPERATIONS: “THE CONCEPT OF EXECUTION”

The following institutions shall be the priority target:

24
 25
1. CONGRESS: Congress being the law making body, is one of the vital governmental institutions that can
support the PNP. The PNP must master enough support from Congress so that laws needed to enhance its
capabilities to safeguard peace and order of the community and ensure public safety as well as laws on
organizational development and modernization maybe enacted.
The following activities may be taken:

Organizational Level Liaison work: The Directorate for PCR shall maintain a liaison office with Congress
whose main task is monitor, get the pulse, actively interact and possibly influence lawmakers on matters
affecting the PNP. Since relationship with this institution must be symbolic then this office shall also be
responsible in giving general, special, technical assistance to Congress as pertains to the PNP.

Top Hierarchy Level Liaison work: Top leadership of the command shall conduct regular Face to Face
dialogues with key members of the Congress as well as different Congressional Committees handling PNP
affairs in order to present for their appreciation and support on matters affecting the PNP.

2. THE MEDIA: The media unquestionably is the most powerful instrument in forming public opinion.
Hence, there is the need to generate support from this institution of our society. Specific activities to be taken
with respect to this institution are the following:

A. Development of guidelines on Media—PNP relationship. In brief, these guidelines shall form the basis
of the PNP as an organization as well as of its individual personnel dealing with the media.
B. Providing timely and accurate information through press releases, regular conference, daily bulletins,
and attendance to talk show and similar programs.
C. Giving the media reasonable accessibility to source of information in accordance with the existing
security regulations.
D. Improvement of rapport with media through non-law enforcement activities such as sports, outing
parties and the like.
E. Giving of special awards by the PNP to deserving media personalities.

3. THE CHURCH: Another important institution of our society is the church, especially in opinion building
in predominantly God living and God fearing country such as ours. The opinion of church leaders, carry much
weight among the religious people. It need not underscore that a pastoral letter read through out the country
carry great impact.

a. relationship or union (liaison) with important church personalities.

b. monitoring and assessment
c. special activities

4. THE STUDENTS/ SCHOOL: Another big and important institution of society whose support, sympathy
(understanding) and empathy ( personality projection)when properly exploited will provide the PNP a
potentiality.

a. Effective liaison work (union) with key school authorities

b. Monitoring and assessment
c. Involvement and support in different school activities such:
1. Drug education program
2. Crime prevention program
3. Immunization and vaccination program
4. Organization of Junior Police
5. Medical/Dental outreach program in coordination with DECS/DOH

5. COMMUNITY/NGO: Another institution of the society, that plays a vital role in enhancing the PNP image.
They are composed of society people having common rights and privileges, common interest and aspiration
formally organized but at times most determinative of the outcome of an issue.

PUBLIC INFORMATION AND PROPAGANDA OPERATIONS:

1. ON INTERNAL SECURITY: Intensified information on evils of the ideology and actual terrorist operations
through regular issuance of press releases. The editors or columnists should enhanced utilization of the tri-
media to write, print and broadcast.
25
 26

2. ON CRIME PREVENTION:/LAW ENFORCEMENT

a. Sustained information drive on how the public can reach public assistance.
b. Strengthen public and the utilization of the tri-media especially on modus operandi, safety and the
like.

3. ON PUBLIC SAFETY:
a. Intensified information drive on pre disaster preparedness.
b. Support information drive on how to get government assistance when affected by calamity or
disaster.
c. Intensified information campaign to generate awareness and sympathy for the victims of calamities
and disasters with the aim of gaining relief goods and other support to them.

CONDUCTING INTERNAL REFORMS:

1. Continuous Values Orientation and Skill development of the PNP personnel: Intensification of police
education and values orientation. Internalization of the Code of Ethics and Professional Standard of the PNP;
Moral and Spiritual values and basic courtesies relative to law enforcement.

2. Unrelenting (not forgiving) clean up of the organization of misfits, criminal elements, and leaders
with low potential. Entails the continuous investigation, suspension or dismissed of misguided and erring
police officers at all level. More on OPLAN PAGBABAGO.

3. Not forgiving effort to brighten up the physical appearance of the PNP facilities and vehicle.
Sprucing (dressing up or arranging it neatly) up of all police station or offices to create a public friendly
atmosphere therein and the exercise of proper care.

CAPAIGN FEEDBACK AND EVALUATION SYSTEM (CFES)

Bases of giving rating to the performance of the PNP, are the following:

1. Unit Visitation: This system involved the conduct of scheduled and run scheduled visits by personnel of this
directorate to check into performance, appearance and behavior of police personnel and the state of PNP
facilities and vehicles.

2. Surveys: Involves the conduct of random surveys by the PR (Public Relation) or private agencies to
determine the public perception of a particular PNP unit or office.

3. Records: Involves the submission and analysis of periodic reports and special reports by PNP units as
required.

4. Interviews: Involves the conduct of casual and or structural interviews of selected individuals who can
provide insight on the current state of police community relation. Example is the consultation with the
barangay leader.

5. Media Analysis: Involves the monitoring of reports, stories commentaries printed or aired by mass media
practitioners to determine perception of individuals who are considered as effective molders of public opinion.

IMPACT OF POOR PCR TO THE PUBLIC

a. Will not report the occurrence of crimes.
b. Will not come forward ad provide information.
c. Will be uncooperative or will not assist in the apprehension of criminals.
d. Will not be supportive of police activities
e. Will not testify in court voluntarily
f. May even aid the criminals

IMPACT OF POOR PCR TO POLICE OFFICERS

a. Becomes less judicious and less discreet
b. Reluctant to act on some matters needing police action
c. Induce unnecessary use of force
d. Induce verbal abuse
26
 27
e. Induce improper practices
f. Makes an officer isolated and unhappy in his community
g. Diminishes his sense of fulfillment

LIMITATIONS
a. Lukewarm attitude of some
b. Inadequate general and technical support for PCR
c. Lack of qualified/trained personnel for assignment with PCR units
d. Enhancement of linkages between PCR units and other PNP units

PUBLIC RELATION - It is a program designed to make the public aware of what the agency is doing, why
and how it contributes to the welfare of the community.

TYPES OF PUBLIC RELATION:

1. Public Awareness Program- familiarizing the public with the true nature of police operations.

The following are public awareness programs:

a. Mobile Vans- certain variety of display and exhibit of police equipment, which help to explain to the
public what the police do and how they do it.
b. Displays and Exhibits- set up in department stores, shopping centers, and other public locations are
popular ways in which the police can bring their messages to the public.
c. Informative Materials- distribution of pamphlets or brochures, which are designed to explain their
services to the public.
d. Open House- conducted during times of the year such as police week, or law observance week, public
tours of facility.
e. Public Speakers- provides speakers for various types of public gatherings such as civic clubs,
businessmen, associations and social groups.
f. Ride Along- permits number of the community to ride in a police car with an officer and observed field
operations.

2. Information Programs- providing the public with information, which is directly related to the interest and
needs of the community.

The following are information programs:

a. New Arrivals- making some members of the community feels at home in their new surroundings.
b. Traffic Advisory Reports- coordinate with the media in announcing important traffic matters such as
road accidents, highway construction and traffic congestion.
c. Informational Bureaus- information about such things as renewal of drivers licenses, payments of utility
bills, availability of legal services and other items.
d. Informational Brochures- provide the public with booklets, pamphlets and other types of publications
which contain information of community interest.

3. Image Building Program- promoting programs, which are designed to create a more favorable public image
of the police.

The following are the image building:

a. Citizens awards
b. Police Color Guard
c. Police Citizens Luncheons
d. Operational Handshake
e. Recruit Visitation Programs
f. Community Events
g. Gifts packages

DUTIES OF THE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERS:

27
 28
1. To evaluate public opinion and attitudes with respect to the policies, methods and personnel of the police
station.

2. To advice the police station commander with regard to the public relations aspects of new or revised
departmental programs, policies, procedures and activities

3. To plan and to carry out programs aimed at keeping the public informed on police activities and

4. To provide staff supervision of all police activities that may influence public support.

NEED FOR PUBLIC SUPPORT

The ultimate objective of police community relations is to influence the opinions, emotions, attitudes,
and behavior of the public so that they will behave in a manner beneficial to the unit, in particular, and the PNP
in general either directly or indirectly, and to solicit public support in order to make it easier for the police
accomplish their task successfully.

FOUNDATION OF PUBLIC RELATIONS:

Public relations are basically founded on the GOLDEN RULE: Do not do unto others what you do not
want others do unto you.
Public relations is also founded on the following concepts:

1. Live and let die

2. Give before you seek to get
3. Give what is due to others
4. See the other person’s side
5. Respect so you would be respected

PRINCIPLES OF POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS:

Every member of the PNP shall adhere to the following principles of police community relations:

a. Public support must be maintained. Every policeman shall be worthy of the public’s high trust if he
does his job well and leaves nothing unaccomplished through carelessness. He shall appear able and
willing to serve all.
b. Public resentment must be avoided. The policeman shall always bear in mind the interest of the public
and shall develop friendly relations by his good conduct. He shall avoid nay occasion to humiliate,
embarrass, annoy or cause inconvenience to any individual.
c. Public goodwill must be developed. The policeman must be courteous, fair and quick to assist
individuals in the solutions of their problems.
d. The public must be kept informed on regulations and policies. The police must inform the public on the
regulations and policies of the police forces and the reason for their adoption.

PEACE OFFICER’S INDIVIDUAL PUBLIC RELATIONS

The peace officer’s individual public relations are divided into five categories, namely:

1. Domestic Relations – this consist of a person’s dealing with his family, parents and immediate relatives, with
whom he has to have good relationship in order to develop a respectable family prestige as well as cordial
community relations.

2. Neighborhood Relations – this consist of a person’s dealing with neighbor who constitute a vital link to good
reputation in the community.

28
 29
3. Community Relations – this is made up of a person’s dealing with the citizens of the community, city or
town where a person likes, his membership or contribution to civil undertakings and his membership or
contribution to the civic organization or community associations in the locality.

4. Church Relation – this consist of a person’s dealing with religious affiliation is necessary for the stability of
moral principle.

5. Government Relations – this is made up of the dealings, which a person has with the government and its
various instrumentalities. The recognition of government authorities, its laws and ordinance, as well as other
public responsibilities, are significant phases of an individuals public relations.

THE PEACE OFFICER’S PROFESSIONAL PUBLIC RELATION:

The peace officer’s professional public relations are divided into eight (8) categories, namely:

1. Intra- departmental relation- this is made up of the peace officers relations with the officers and men of his
own department, his supervisor, the station commander, as well as the city/municipal mayor where he is
assigned.

2. Inter- departmental relations – relations with other police agencies are evident in his cooperation’s and
dealings with the PNP and other law enforcement agencies of the government.

3. Citizen’s relations – this includes all dealings or contact with the citizens in relations to the enforcement of
the law and the maintenance of peace and order, together with the giving of information to the public or
criminal and non-criminal activities.

4. Complaints relations – this includes how officer deals with complaints, the techniques of interview he uses,
the manner of approach he adopts, the treatment of witnesses as well as informers.

5. Relations with accused persons – this covers the proper treatment of suspects, the recognition of their
constitutional rights during custodial investigation and the handling of accused persons during confinement.

6. Relations with State Prosecutor- this includes a police officer’s duty to cooperate during preliminary
investigations and the gathering of further evidence, once the case is, filed by the fiscal.

7. Judicial relations – this consists of the peace officer’s duties toward the courts when appearing as a witness
and the honesty of his testimony.

SUPPLYING INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC: The police should be alert to assist the public in every
way possible. Citizens invariably turn to the police for information, and the police should be prepared to supply
it. The headquarters staff and all other members of the police station should know the geography of the city/
town and surrounding areas, the principal highways, the direction and distance to nearby towns, the location of
prominent buildings, parks, and schools and the schedules and routes of the transportation system.

RECEIVING COMPLAINTS FROM CITIZENS: When a citizen calls at the police station or approaches a
policeman on the streets to make a complaint, he should be accorded a suitable reception. The police officer
must adopt an attractive manner; his attitude must be alert, his face and voice must be pleasant, and he must
appear interested in the subject at hand. Timid citizens often dread police officers should make great effort to
place these timid citizens at ease.

THE COMPLAINT DESK OFFICER: The complaint desk officer should be alert at his desk and avoid
ignoring a timid citizen. As soon as he sees a person approaching, unless he is busy with another citizen, he
sees a person approaching, unless he is busy with another citizen, he should immediately offer his service by
posing a simple question such as “ May I do something for, Sir/Ma’am?” to demonstrate his sincerity. If
possible, there should also be a woman employee at the desk to handle complaints from women who may be
timid about approaching a male officer. This employee need not be a policeman; a clerical employee may be
stationed at the complaint desk for this purpose.

29
 30

FULL ATTENTION BE GIVEN TO COMPLAINT: A person who approaches a policeman for assistance
should be given ample opportunity to tell his story. The officer can sometimes assist with intelligent questions,
evidence of sympathy, and assurance of aid. But he should not needlessly interrupt the explanation of the
complainant. The citizen gets the impression that the police are not interested in his complaint when the
officers’ attention appears to be diverted to

other matters. The impression of inattention and a lack of interest may be avoided if the officer focuses his
attention on the citizen while receiving the complaint. He should also take down notes. Even though the
information offered may be of title or no real importance or interest to the police, the officer should treat it with
respect and consideration because it is concern to the citizen. Should the subject matter require the attention of
some other division of the police station, the citizen should be referred to that office, but in such a manner to
avoid any doubt as to the officer’s interest in the citizen and his complaint.

RECEIVING COMPLAINTS AND CRITICISM AGAINST THE POLICE: Citizens sometimes complain
to patrol officer regarding police station policies and programs over which the patrol officer exercises no
control. The unfairness of making such criticisms to a patrol officer is quite apparent. They are usually made
for the effect they have on the officer who receives them rather than in the expectation of corrective action.
Such complaints should be referred to the proper authorities for audience or if permitted, the officer may refer
the complaint immediately to his superior officer. Sincere citizens sometimes make an earnest effort to offer
information and suggestions of value to the police. These should be accepted in the spirit in which they are
offered, with graciousness and appreciation even though the subject matter may be infuriating.

LEGITIMATE COMPLAINTS AGAINST POLICE OFFICERS: The police station itself influences the
attitudes of both the police and the public. The public does not react favorably to an ill-smelling dank, poorly
kept, and unclean police station; neither to the police officers themselves. While the police may have little
choice in the location and arrangement of their headquarters they do have the opportunity and the responsibility
to maintain them in a clean and presentable condition. Paint of a light color can usually be obtained and trusty
labor is usually available for painting, cleaning and janitorial services. The officers should give a business-like
appearance in their furnishings and in their freedom from trash miscellaneous unsightly articles. There should
be a place when not in actual use. The top of desks and filing cabinets should be kept free of papers and boxes.
Storeroom space be provided so that no material in boxes or otherwise, will need to be stored on the floors and
in the corners of offices.

KATARUNGANG PAMBARANGAY

Role of Barangay. As the basic unit of government, the barangay serves as the primary planning and
implementing unit of state policies, plans, programs, projects and activities in the community, and a forum
wherein the collective view of the people are expressed, crystallized and considered, and where dispute may be
amicably settled.

Subject Matter for Amicable Settlement Exception Therein. The Lupon of each Barangay shall have the
authority to bring together the parties actually residing in the same city or municipality for amicable settlement
of all disputes
except.
b. Where one party is the government or any subdivision or instrumentality thereof.
c. Where one party is a public officer or employee and the dispute relates to the performance of his official
functions.
d. Offenses punishable by imprisonment exceeding one (1) year or a fine exceeding five thousand pesos.
e. Offenses where there is no private offended party.
f. Where the dispute involved real properties located in the different cities or municipalities unless the
parties agree to submit their differences to amicable settlement by an appropriate lupon.
g. Disputes involving parties who actually reside in the barangay of different cities or municipalities,
except where such barangay units adjoin each other and the parties thereto agree to submit their
differences to amicable settlement by an appropriate lupon.
h. Such other disputes which the president may determine in the interest of Justice or upon
recommendation of the Secretary of Justice.

30
 31
Venue
a. Dispute between persons actually residing in the same barangay shall be brought for amicable settlement
before the lupon of said barangay.
b. Those involving actual residents, of different barangay within the same city or municipality shall be
brought in the respondents actually resides, at the selection of the complainants.
c. All disputes involving real property or nay interest shall be brought in the barangay where the real
property or the larger portion thereof is situated; and
d. Those arising at the work place where the contending parties are employed or at the institution where
such parties are enrolled for study shall be brought in the barangay where such workplace or institution
is located.

Objection to venue shall be raised in the mediation proceeding before the punong barangay;
otherwise the same be deemed waived. Any legal question which may confront the punong barangay in
resolving objections to venue herein referred to may be submitted to the Secretary of Justice or his duly
designated representative whose ruling thereon shall be binding.

Conciliation

a. Pre-condition to filing of complaint in court.

No complaint petition, action, or proceeding involving any matter within the authority of the lupon shall
be filed or instituted directly in the court or any government office for adjudication, unless there has been a
confrontation between the parties before the lupon chairman or the pangkat and that the lupon secretary has
attested to the lupon chairman or pangkat and that no reconciliation or settlement reached as certified by the
lupon secretary as attested to by the lupon chairman or pangkat chairman or unless the settlement has been
repudiated by the parties thereto.

b. Where parties may go directly to court. The parties may go directly to court in the following instances:
Where the accused is under detention.
1. Where a person has otherwise been deprived of personal liberty calling for habeas corpus
proceedings.
2. Where actions are coupled with provisional remedies such as preliminary injunction, attachment,
delivery of personal property, and support pendants life; and
3. Where the action may, otherwise be barred by the statute of limitation.

c. Conciliation among members of Indigenous Cultural Communities

The customs and traditions of indigenous cultural communities shall be applied in settling dispute
between members of the cultural communities.

PRINCIPLE OF COMMUNITY RELATION

Every member of the PNP shall adhere to the following principles of police community relations:

1. Community Support must be maintained.

a. Every police shall be worthy of the public high trust by doing his job and leaving nothing through
carelessness.
b. He shall make himself available and be willing to serve everyone.

2. Community Resentment must be avoided.

a. Every policeman shall have in mind the interest of the public.
b. He shall develop friendly relations by his good conduct.
c. He shall avoid any occasion to humiliate, embarrass, annoy or inconvenience anyone.

3. Community Goodwill must be developed.

A police should be courteous, fair and quick to assist individuals in the solution of their problems.

4. Community must be kept informed.

The police should inform the community of the regulations and policies of the police force and the
reasons of their adoption.

31
 32

THE MANY COMMUNITIES IN COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Each of these communities, and others, will receive individual attention. At this point, however, it is
important to recognize a few of the many communities that make up the environment in which police work.
Each has a distinct way with police and with each other. Each community must be a part of police-community
relations if it is to be truly effective.

1. External Communities

a. The Justice Community – other police agencies, jurisdiction, courts, and corrections departments
existing at many levels of government are a part of the justice community with which police must
interact. The nature of the relationship between police and members of the justice community has a
direct impact on police effectiveness in achieving their goals. A lack of coordination, communication,
and mutual respect within this community, or system, is legendary. Community relations include
relations with this community as a whole and with its individual members.

b. The Human Services Community – The human services umbrella includes many public and private
social service resources mental health general services. Media civic and religious groups and educational
services. Mutual support and availability or services may be lacking because of poor police-community
relations. Keeping the peace may depend upon access to coordination of such resources.

c. Citizens and the Police – Peel’s Principles states that “the police must secure the willing cooperation of
the public in voluntary observance of the law to be able to secure and maintain public respect.” Part of
the police community relations is, understanding the public the police serve and having the public
understand the police. The public is composed of people with varying needs and hopes, who live in a
changing society and bring to the society conflicting values and cultural rules. The police agency is
relatively closed, somewhat secretive, and vague as to what the police role and citizen role should be.
Citizen participation in policing, particularly in crime prevention aspects has increased in recent years.

2. Internal Communities

a. The Personal Support Community – The officer’s support group, both in the sense of family
system and close personal relationships, affect the officer’s perspective and effectiveness. The officer has
an impact on the support group as well. This relationship may be one of the most critical in determining the
officer’s ability to cope with the human experience of being a cop. It may also determine to a large degree
how the individual officer will relate with other communities.

b. The Police Community – The police officer as a member of the police agency and police structure must
also be considered. It is this community that can determine whether police-community relations outside the
agency will be supported or undermined both as a matter of policy and practice. The first positive
relationship that must formed effective community relations, in a larger sense that is to be accomplished is,
within the agency itself.

FOUNDATION OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS – The foundation of good community relations is efficient

service. No amount of publicity can cover up inefficiency or poor public service of the police. The
requirements for good community relations are; (1) sincerity in serving the public, (2) full knowledge of the job,
(3) deep conviction in the mobility of his work as a necessary service to promote individual or national welfare,
(4) sound police ethics, and (5) high standard of management and operation.

How to Regain and Maintain the Trust and Confidence

1. The police should be people oriented to recognize the divergence of people and yet capable to be working
together with them for a common good. Being good is not enough; you must show it by the way you perform
your job and by the state of discipline of every officer and men in the police station or similar unit.

2. The command must increase the personnel assigned to patrol division in line with the police visibility
program and to make them available to provide police assistance at nay time.

32
 33
3. Requesting the community to assist in identifying the scalawags in uniform as a basis for giving immediate
disciplinary action against them.
4. The policeman should closely coordinate with the business community to identify areas where police
presence is needed.
5. Conduct in-depth study and to initiate the immediate assignment of police to every barangay to serve the
public needs and to call upon residents and oversee their well being.

POLICE AND THE COMMUNITY – The PNP program of growth includes the development of the essential
attribution of all its members. Every police thus:

1. Shall be loyal to the service, which he belong and is proud of.

2. Shall be sympathetic and display the ability to feel the suffering of other people.
3. Shall be confident in his ability to know the job and do it well.
4. Shall dispose of and act on all cases correctly.
5. Shall guard against harsh judgment from opinion in advance.
6. Shall be courteous to the community at any place and on any occasion.
7. Shall demonstrate strong faith in what he is doing.
8. Shall not sulk in the face of danger but with his mental conviction and physical strength.
9. Shall maintain an attitude of enthusiasm, dedication, zeal and pride in his work.
10. Shall be tact in his dealing with people of the community.
11. Shall be firm and unyielding but not officious in dealing with people.
12. Shall be serious and purposeful but not officious in dealing with people.
13. Shall genuinely be interested to his task.
14. Shall avoid unwarranted practice or situation that will endanger him.
15. Shall be patient when the situation demands.

a. Moral and Esprit de Corps – The reputation that the police service bears with the community is built
upon favorable community relationship and express by community. Confidence in the continued constructive
accomplishment is only possible when the internal strength of the organization is assured. There must be high
morale among the members of the PNP reflected in their esprit de corps and spring from their genuine loyalty
and noble faith in the policies and objective of their organization.

b. Must have exacting and exemplary conduct – The police by reason of their specific responsibility are
bound to more exacting code than any other public servant. Delinquents in conduct that pass unchallenged
when committed by other public officials are acts that are accepted as common place in judging the conduct of
the citizens, adjudge as reprehensible when committed by policeman.

c. Police must be understanding – Policeman’s duty is to regulate the conduct and administers to the
needs of the people of all walks of life. The rich and the poor, the old and the young, the weak and the strong,
the literate and the illiterate are equally entitled to and assured the protection of law.

d. Police influence over the community- the community looks upon the policeman as representative of
the authority of law. It is obvious therefore, that influence of the policeman over the community is increased by
reason of the authority they personify. Policeman must be careful that the influence of their authority does not
become oppressive in their relationship with the community particularly in situations of stress and excitement.

e. Practice of Courtesy – courtesy is more than friendliness. To appreciate sincerity habitually

performed acts of courtesy requires cultivation of appearance, voice, manner, intelligence, humor, temperament
and unselfishness that are easily appreciated by the people. All of these factors commingle in the production of
a gentleman in principle and in conduct. Compassionate but firm and earnestly interested without being over
solicitous.

f. Courteous Treatment of Law violator- numerous contacts with anti-social persons are likely to cause
the policeman to assume an attitude of veneer hardness. They often entertain erroneous belief that courteous
treatment of law violators is an indication of weakness, cringing or servility.

Policeman may be firm and exacting in the enforcement of the law, they may be strict and relentless in
their relationship with the offender that come under their control, yet remain propitious and gentleman in their
bearing. The fact that a criminal, by reason of their depravity or because of his anti-social acts has not earned

33
 34
the respect of his fellowmen has no bearing upon the conduct of the policeman with whom he is brought into
contact.

g. Leadership – true leadership is personal it is a psychological balance showing a well integrated

personality. It is difficult to enumerate the specific characteristics that combine in the personality of a true
leader, because individuals differ in their viewpoint and reaction.

The public is a willing body of people who ask little more of a leader with qualities that will command
their respect, loyalty and obedience. The qualities that seem most common on persons who command public
respect and confidence are those that rate highly in influencing positive character of his men.

A good leader should possess the following qualities:

1. Self confidence – is faith to oneself, and it is predicated upon knowledge, still in applying knowledge, and in
the ability and willingness to pass one’s knowledge for the benefits of the others.
- it is in fact a state of mental satisfaction that arises from being able to put the possession of knowledge
to constructive use.

2. Paternalism – is a quality found in policeman who are mindful of the welfare of others. It is basic to police
leadership because community welfare is the primordial responsibility of police.

3. Fairness and Honesty – impartial application of laws and regulations, fairness and honesty in exercising the
police authority are powerful force in insuring community respect for police service.

4. Self sacrifice – It is inescapable fact that to contemplate a situation without bias requires first a complete
subordination of self. Effective police work requires the utmost self sacrifice, policeman who are selfishly
impressed with their authority cannot succeed as leader.

5. Decisive- Initiative and decisiveness are characteristics of man who acts correctly at the proper time. Thehe
ability to act decisively and correctly is a manifestation or thorough preparation and interest in the appreciation
of the task at hand. The ability of policeman to meet emergencies with propriety and decision has no profound
effect upon shaping favorable community opinion.

6. Personal Dignity- It is an indicative of a policeman’s appreciation of the honor of his position. It is an

excellent manifestation of his “esprit de corps” and is a powerful factor in creating community respect.

7. Physical and Moral Courage- The community assumes that police officers are physically courageous, yet
courage is not thoroughly understood by most citizens. True courage is that state of devotion to duty that will
give police officers the moral stamina impelling them to the
performances of duty even in the face of full knowledge of the dangers involved. Moral courage means that
police officer to assume responsibility of their office without quibbling, stand up for their conviction without
attempting to shift or evade the personal criticism.

8. Moral Ascendancy- It is the influence that one- person exercises over a group of persons by reason of
exemplary nature of his character. It arises out of withstand the hardship of the work, sincerity of purpose that
manifest its willingness to personally adhere, without equivocation, to the same standards of conduct that he is
duty bound to enforce upon other.

h. Dependability and Punctuality – The police officer should be able to serve at the right place and the
right time. All the skills and abilities that a police officer possesses is of little value unless he can defend upon
to apply his skill at the proper time.

i. Attitude in trial court – Police officers attending court sessions in whatever capacity, shall not only
appear in proper attire, but should also observe the following behavior while in the witness stand, to wit:

1. He must say nothing but the truth.

2. He must be calm.
3. He must be prepared.
4. He must be courteous.
5. He must be natural and straightforward.
34
 35
6. He must maintain his temper.
7. He must be attentive to the questions to be answered.
8. He must speak loud enough to be heard
9. He must be conscious of his personal appearance.

j. Appearing as a witness

1. Witness in criminal case: Police officer shall, when subpoenaed as a witness in a

criminal case, promptly notify his immediate chief. No members of the PNP shall be a
witness in such capacity without the service of a proper subpoena.

2. Witness in civil case-no member of the PNP shall testify in civil cases unless
summoned to do so by proper authority.

3. Action after court attendance- a member of the PNP attending nay court session under
subpoena/summon or other processes as a witness, shall after having been released
there from for the day, immediately report to their superior officer.

35