TRAINING FOR COPS. Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. (right), and Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla sign a memorandum of agreement in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Tuesday (April 11, 2023). Under the agreement, the DOJ will assist the PNP in equipping police investigators with skills and knowledge on case build-up to prevent charges from being dismissed in court due to technicalities. (Photo courtesy of PNP)
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Wednesday it has received PHP300 million from the national government for the special training and education of policemen to improve their law enforcement capabilities, particularly on digital innovations amid the prevalence of cybercrime in the country.
PNP Chief, Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., said the comprehensive training and education programs for policemen also aim to improve the police force’s investigative and case-building capabilities.
“Training and education are essential to the development and formation of law enforcers, given the multi-faceted role of the police officer, as well as the latest technological advances, which have reshaped the law enforcement environment,” Azurin said in a statement.
Police officers, he said, need to be proficient in dealing with cybercrimes, which have become more prevalent since the start of the pandemic when almost everything shifted to digital transactions and processes.
Azurin and Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that would enable the Department of Justice (DOJ) to assist the PNP in arming police investigators with the necessary skills and knowledge in a case build-up.
Remulla earlier expressed concern over the low conviction rate in the country, noting the high number of cases being trashed in court due to technicalities.
Remulla earlier expressed concern over the low conviction rate in the country, noting the high number of cases being trashed in court due to technicalities.
The substantial allotment for the training and education program of police officers was funded under Special Provision 11 of the General Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2023.
“With the PHP300 million provided, the PNP will be able to expand its education and training efforts to cover not only the fundamentals and special concerns but also the newest in digital innovations,” Azurin said. “This would result in more effective and efficient policing, as well as a higher level of professionalism among officers.”
The signing of the MOA between the PNP and DOJ, he said, is expected to have a profound impact on enhancing peace and order across the nation.
“Through increased training and educational opportunities, the PNP leadership is confident that police officers can gain a deeper comprehension of their duties, responsibilities, and the laws and regulations they are entrusted to enforce,” Azurin said. “The PNP affirmed its commitment to collaborate with the DOJ in pursuing a more proficient and capable police force.” (PNA)
