The national government has provided P300 million for special training and education of policemen on further improving law enforcement capabilities, particularly on digital innovations amid the prevalence of cybercrime in the country.
Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said the comprehensive training and education programs for policemen is also aimed at further improving the investigative and case-building capabilities of the police force.
Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla (left) and PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Jr. show the Memorandum of Agreement they signed, which is aimed at improving the cybercrime-fighting and case build-up capabilities of the police force. (photo: PNP)
“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,” said Azurin.
The prevalence of cybercrime in the country was more since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic when almost everything shifted to digital transactions and this became the favorite playground of scammers online.
Azurin signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla who earlier voiced out the low conviction rate in the country.
Remula also vowed to assist the PNP in arming police investigators the necessary skills and knowledge in a case build-up, amid incidents of cases being thrashed in the court due to technicalities.
“With the three hundred million pesos 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,” said Azurin.
“This would result in more effective and efficient policing, as well as a higher level of professionalism among officers,” he added.
The substantial allotment for the training and education program of police officers was funded under Special Provision No. 11 of the General Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2023.
The signing of the MOA between the DOJ and PNP 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,” said Azurin.
“The PNP affirmed its commitment to collaborate with the DOJ in pursuing a more proficient and capable police force,” he added.