Police Ethics and Community Relations

Prepared by:
Hermogenes P. Malagamba

Law Enforcement Code of Ethics:

 As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind.

 To safeguard lives and property, to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against
oppression or intimidation and the peaceful against violence or disorder.

 To respect the constitutional rights of all men to 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 and develop self-restraint.

 Whatever I see or hear of a confidential nature or that 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.

 I will never permit personal feelings, prejudices, animosities or friendships to influence my

decisions.

 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 will.

 I will never employ unnecessary force or violence.

 I will never accept gratuities.

ETHICS:

Is the branch of philosophy in which men attempts to evaluate and decide upon particular courses
of moral action or general theories of conduct.

Etymologically, ethics derived from the Greek word “ethikos” which means moral or that which
pertains to “ethos” which means custom or character. From this etymological meaning, the following
vernacular or formal definitions are drawn:

1. Ethics is the practical science of the morality of human conduct.

2. Ethics is a philosophical science dealing with the morality of the human acts.
3. Ethics is the systematic study of human actions from the point of view of their rightness or
wrongness as means for the achievement of ultimate happiness.
4. Ethics is the normative science of the conduct of human beings living in societies-science that
judge this conduct to be right or wrong, to be good or bad.
5. Ethics means a philosophical study of morality, the foundation on which morality is based and of
the practical implications of a systematic moral outlook.

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 6. Ethics is a normative science based in reason that interprets specific and paramount facts, the
elements of which are conduct and toughtness.

Why we study ethics?

Professionals are recognized as such in part because “profession” normally includes a set of
ethical requirements as part of its meaning… Professionalism among all actors at all levels of criminal
justice system depends upon their ability to administer policy effectively in a morally and ethically
responsible manner.

To develop analytical skills and reasoning abilities needed to understand the pragmatic and
theoretical aspects of the criminal justice system.

To recognize quickly the ethical consequences of various actions, and the moral principles
involved.

Ethical considerations are central to decisions involving discretion, force, and due process which
require people to make enlightened moral judgments.

Ethics is germane to most management and policy decisions concerning such penal issues as
rehabilitation, deterrence and just deserts.

Basic points why we study ethics:

1. We study ethics because criminal justice is uniquely involved in coercion, which means there are
many and varied opportunities to abuse such power.

2. We study ethics because almost all criminal justice professionals are public servants and thus owe
special duties to the public they serve.

3. We study ethics to sensitize the student to ethical issues and provide tools to help resolve the
ethical dilemmas that individuals may face with in their professional lives.

Definition of Terms:

Community relations – encompass the sum total of the human and public relation whether initiated by
the police or other members of the community.

Human relations – consist of those fundamental precepts, both moral and legal, which govern the
relationships of man in all aspects of life.

Integrity – means wholeness in public & private life consisting of habits of justice, temperance, courage,
compassion, honesty, fortitude, and disdain for self-pity.

Police community relations – the sum total of dealings of the police with the people it serves and whose
goodwill and cooperation it craves for to insure the greatest possible efficiency in public service.

Police ethics – is the practical science that treats of the principles of human morality and duty as applied
to law enforcement.

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Police public relations – is the continuing process by which endeavors are made to obtain the goodwill
and cooperation of the public for the effective enforcement of the law and the accomplishment of the
police purpose.

Police relations – is the art of bringing about better public understanding, confidence and acceptance for
an individual or an organization.

Police – is a group of persons established, maintained and organized for keeping order, safety, protection
of lives and properties and for prevention and detection of crimes.

Community – refers to the civilian populace in cities, municipalities or public in general and shall be
used interchangeably with public.

Personal media – implies the use of rallies, meetings, speeches and house to house visits to the
community.

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

Mass media – implies the use of radio, television and motion-pictures in transmitting information to the
public.

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

Propaganda – the planned use of public or mass communication for public purpose.

Misfeasance – wrongful doing of an act which might be done lawfully.

Malfeasance – commission of a wrongful act which might not to be done.

Nonfeasance – failure to perform a duty.

Temptations – happens when the individual practice double standards, where public servants take
advantage of their positions for special favors, rather than higher standards of exemplary behavior.

Police Values:

1. Discretion A: Decision whether about to enforce the law, in any but the most serious cases,
should be guided by both what the law says and who the suspect is. Attitude, demeanor,
cooperativeness, and even race, age and social class are all important considerations in deciding
how to treat people generally, and whether or not to arrest suspects in particular.

2. Discretion B: Disrespect for police authorities is a serious offense that should always be
punished with an arrest with the use of force. The “offense” known as “contempt of cop” or
P.O.P.O. (pissing off a police officer) cannot be ignored. Even when the party has committed no
violation of the law a police officer should find a safe way to impose punishment, including an
arrest on fake charges.

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3. Force: Police officer should never hesitate to use physical or deadly force against people who
“deserve it”, or where it can be an effective way of solving crime. Only the potential punishments
by superior officers, civil litigation, citizen complaints and so forth should limit the use of force
when the situation calls for it. When you can get away with it, use all the force that society should
use on people like that-force and punishment which bleeding-heart judges are too soft to impose.

4. Due Process: Due process is only a means of protecting criminals at the expense of the law
abiding and should be ignored when it is safe to do so. Illegal searches and wiretaps, interrogation
without advising suspects of their Miranda rights, and if need be (as in the much admire movie,
Dirty Harry), even physical pain to coerce a confession are all acceptable methods for
accomplishing the goal the public wants the police to accomplish: fighting crime. The rules
against doing those things merely handcuff the police, making it more difficult for them to do
their job.

5. Truth: Lying and deceptions are an essential part of the police job, and even perjury should be
used if it is necessary to protect yourself or get a conviction on a “bad guy”. Violations of due
process cannot be admitted to prosecutors or in court, so perjury (in the serious five percent of
cases that ever go to trial) is necessary and therefore proper. Lying to drug pushers about wanting
to buy drugs, to prostitutes about wanting to buy sex, or to congressmen about wanting to buy
influence is the only way, and therefore a necessity to investigate these crimes about victims.
Deceiving muggers into thinking you are a easy mark and deceiving burglars into thinking you
are a fence are proper because there are not many other ways of catching predatory criminals in
the act.

6. Time: You cannot go enough to chase a car thief or traffic violator, nor slow enough to get to a
“garbage” call; and there are no calls for service, your time is your own. Hot pursuit is necessary
because anyone who tries to escape from the police is challenging police authority, no matter how
trivial the initial offense. But call to non-serious or social-work problems like domestic disputes
or kids making noise are unimportant, so you can stop to get coffee on the way or even stop at the
cleaner’s if you like. And when there are no calls, you can sleep, visit friends, study or do
anything else you can get away with, especially on the midnight shift when you can get away
with a lot.

7. Rewards – Police do very dangerous work for low wages, so it is proper to take any extra
rewards the public want to give them, like free meals, Christmas gifts, or even regular monthly
payments (in some cities) for special treatment. The general rule is: take any reward that doesn’t
change what you would do anyway such as eating a meal, but don’t take money that would affect
your job, like not giving traffic tickets. In many cities, however, especially in the recent past, the
rule has been to take even those rewards that do affect your decisions, as long as they are related
only to minor offenses – traffic, gambling, prostitution, but no murder.

8. Loyalty – the paramount duty is to protect your fellow officers at all costs, as they would protect
you, even though you may have to risk your own career or your own life to do it. If your
colleagues take a mistake, take a bribe, seriously hurt somebody illegally, or get into other
trouble, you should do everything you can to protect them in the ensuing investigation. If your
colleagues are routinely breaking rules, you should never tell supervisors, reporters, or outside
investigators about it, if you don’t like it, quit-or get transferred to the public academy. But never,
ever, blow the whistle.

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Dimension of Police Discrimination:
1. Administrators/Managers
Internal

• Refusing to place female officers in “dangerous” assignments.

• Placing minority employees in undesirable assignments.
• Promotion decisions made on the basis of race/ethnicity or other factors not related to the
ability to perform job.
• Refusing to commend officers for exceptional performance on the basis of such factors as
race/ethnicity, gender or age.
• Segregation in assignment by assigning only selected officers to work together as
partners.
• Failing to take corrective action when subordinates discriminate against workers.

External

• Making selection decisions on the basis of such factors as race/ethnicity, gender, political
or religious affiliation.
• Refusing to respond to complaints by minority citizens or neighborhoods predominantly
populated by minorities.
• Using police resources and personnel to harass certain segments of the community (e.g.,
businesses, community groups).
• By practice or custom, failing to provide police services to minority segments of the
community (e.g., homosexuals, ethics groups, religious groups).

2. Officers
Internal

• Intimidating minority officers by threatening not to back them up on calls.

• Making racist or sexist comments in the presence of minority officers.
• Writing graffiti or positing offensive pictures on lockers belonging to minority officers.
• Sexual harassment.

External

• Not trying to solve crimes where minorities are involved.

• Harassing youths and college students, or other group.
• Hassling businesses frequented by minorities.
• Not responding to, or purposely delaying responding to, call in minority neighborhoods.
• Use of racial slurs or derogatory language when dealing with citizens.

INTERNATIONAL CHIEFS OF POLICE CANONS OF POLICE ETHICS:

Article 1. Primary Responsibility of Job

The primary responsibility of the police service, and of the individual officer is the protection of
the people through the upholding of their laws & the constitution above all. The law enforcement officer

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always respects the whole of the community and its legally expressed will and is never the arm of any
political party and clique.

Article 2. Limitations of Authority

The first duty of a law enforcement officer, as upholder of the law, is to know its bounds upon
him in enforcing it. Because he presents the legal will of the community, be it local state or federal, he
must be aware of the limitations and proscriptions which the people, though law, have placed upon him.
He must recognize the genius of the system of government which gives no man, groups of men or
institution absolute power and he must ensure that he, as a prime defender of the system, does not pervert
its character.

Article 3. Duty to be familiar with the law and with responsibilities of Self and outer public
officials.

The law enforcement officer shall assiduously apply himself to the study of the principles of the
laws which he is sworn to uphold. He will make certain of his responsibilities in the particulars of their
enforcement, seeking aid from his superiors in matters of technicality or principles when these are not
clear to him; he will make special efforts to fully understand his relationship to other public officials,
including other law enforcement agencies, particularly on matters of jurisdiction, both geographically and
substantively.

Article 4. Utilization of proper means to gain proper ends.

The law enforcement officer shall be mindful of his responsibility to pay strict heed to the
selection of means in discharging the duties of his office. Violations of law or disregard for public safety
and property on the part of the officer are intrinsically wrong; they are self-defeating and that they instill
in the public mind a like disposition. The employment of illegal means, no matter how worthy the end, is
certain to encourage disrespect for the law and its officer. If the law is to be honored, it must be first
honored by those who enforced it.

Article 5. Cooperation with public officials in the discharge of their authorized duties.

The law enforcement officer shall cooperate fully with other public officials in the discharge of
authorized duties, regardless of party affiliation or personal prejudice. He shall be meticulous in assuring
himself of the property under the law, of such actions and shall guard against the use of his office or
person, whether knowingly or unknowingly, in any improper or illegal action. In any situation open to
question, he shall seek authority from his superior officer, giving him full report of the proposed service
or action.

Article 6. Private Conduct

The law enforcement officer shall be mindful of his special identification by the public as an
upholder of the law. Laxity of conduct or manner in private life, expressing either disrespect for the law
or seeking to gain special privilege, can’t but reflect upon the police officer and the police service. The
community and the service require that the law enforcement officer lead the life of a decent and honorable
man. Following the career of a policeman gives no man special perquisites. It does give satisfaction of
safeguarding the country. The officer who reflects upon this tradition will not degrade it. Rather he will so
conduct his private life that the public will regard him as an example of stability, fidelity and morality.

Article 7. Conduct towards the public.

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 The law enforcement officer mindful responsibility to the whole community, shall deal with
individuals of the community in a manner such as will inspire confidence and trust. Thus, he will be
neither overbearing nor subservient, as the individual citizen has neither an obligation to stand in awe of
him nor a right to command him. The officer will give service where he can, and require compliance of
the law. He will do neither from personal preference or prejudice but only a duly appointed officer of the
law discharging his sworn obligation.

Article 8. Conduct in arresting and dealing with violators.

The law enforcement officer shall use his powers of arrest in accordance with the law and with
due regard with the right of the citizen concerned. His office gives him no right to prosecute the violator
nor to mete out punishment for the offense. He shall, at all times, have a clear appreciation of his
responsibilities and limitations regarding detention of the violator; he shall conduct himself in such a
manner as will minimize the possibility of having to use force. To this end he shall cultivate a dedication
to the service of the people and the equitable upholding of their laws whether in the handling of law
violators or in dealing with the law abiding.

Article 9. Gifts and Favors

The law enforcement officer, representing the government, bears the heavy responsibility of
maintaining, in his own conduct, the honor and integrity of all government institutions. He shall,
therefore, guard against placing himself in a position in which any person can reasonably assume that
special consideration is being given. Thus, he should be firm in refusing gifts, favors, or gratuities, large
or small, which can, in the public mind, be interpreted as capable of influencing his judgment in the
discharge of his duties.

Article 10. Presentation of Evidence

The law enforcement officer shall be concerned equally in the prosecution of the wrong doer and
the defense of the innocent. He shall ascertain what constitutes evidence and shall present such evidence
impartially and without malice. In doing so, he will ignore social, political, and other distinctions among
the persons involved, strengthening the tradition of the reliability and integrity of an officers word.

Article 11. Attitude towards Profession

The law enforcement officer shall regard the discharge of his duties as a public trust and
recognize his responsibility as a public servant. By diligent study and sincere attention to self-
improvement he shall strive to make the best possible application of science to the solution of crime and
in the field of human relationships, strive for effective leadership and public influence in matters affecting
public safety. He shall appreciate the importance and responsibility of his office; hold police work to be
an honorable profession rendering valuable service to his community and the country.

PNP CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

Article I

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Sec. 1 This code shall be known as the Philippine National Police Code of Professional Conduct and
Ethical Standard.

Sec. 2 Declaration of Policy – All members of the PNP shall abide and adhere to the provision of this
code of professional conduct and ethical standards. Toward this end, a truly professionalized and
dedicated law enforcers shall be developed in promoting peace and order, ensuring public safety and
enhancing community participation guided by the principle that a public office is a public trust and that
all public servants must at all times be accountable to the people. They shall serve with utmost
responsibility, integrity, morality, loyalty and efficiency with due respect to human rights and dignity as
hallmark of a democratic society. They shall at all times bear faithful allegiance to the legitimate
government, support and uphold the constituted authority and be loyal to the police service.

Article II

Section 1 The PNP Code Values

The police service is a noble profession and demand from its members specialized knowledge
skill and high standard ethics and morality. In this regard, the member of the Philippine National Police
must adhere to and internalize the enduring core values of the PNP such as

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 1. Love of God 5. Stewardship Over Material Things
2. Respect for Authority 6. Responsible Dominion
3. Respect for Women 7. Truthfulness
4. Respect for Sanctity of Marriage

Section 2 THE POLICE OFFICER 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 duties and honor him at all times.

2. I believe that respect of authority is a duty.

a. I believe and uphold the constitution, the laws of the land and the applicable rules and
regulations.
b. I recognize the legitimacy and obey legal orders of my superior officers.

3. I believe in selfless love and service to people.

Toward this end, I commit myself to the service of my fellow men over and above my personal
convenience.

4. I believe in the sanctity of marriage and the respect for women.

a. I shall set the example of decency and morality.
b. I shall have high regard for family life and chastity.

5. I believe in responsible dominion and stewardship over material things.

a. I shall inhibit myself from ostentatious display of my property.
b. I shall protect the environment and conserve nature to maintain ecological balance.
c. I shall not intrigue, gossip or make unverified statement concerning personal character or
conduct which will discredit another member of the PNP.

6. I believe in the wisdom of truthfulness.

a. I must be trustworthy.
b. I shall speak the truth at all times as required by my profession.

Section 3 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 the PNP organization affects the esprit de corps, morale and welfare
of members and sense of pride to the organization. In view thereof all members of the PNP
should conduct themselves in a manner that would not place the PNP in bad light. Instead they
should live in accordance with the PNP core value and possess the following virtues:
a. honor e. humility
b. valor f. charity
c. justice g. loyalty to the service
d. honesty

2. Career management

The key to professionalism- if improper implementation will greatly prejudice the personnel
professionalization process as regards procurement, promotion, assignment, placement, training,
awards and retirements. To address this flaws, the PNP shall formulate a stringent policy and strictly
implement the human resources development system compatible to the equitable distribution of
procurement, fair promotion, rationalized approach in assignment, skill development, immediate
grant of reward and award and decent living upon retirement.

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 3. Equality in the Service

There shall be judicious and equitable distribution of opportunity to prove one’s worth in the
police service. The problem on inequity thru class orientation and factionalism both real and
perceived on favored assignments in equitable opportunity of training, unfair granting of promotion,
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 of merit and fitness system and to disassociate the above process from class orientation and
factionalism.

4. Police Lifestyle

The PNP shall endeavor to promote a lifestyle for every member of the organization that is
acceptable and respectable to in the eyes of the public. Further, its members should set good example to
the subordinate and follow good example from the superiors. They must be free from greed, corruption
and exploitation. The public expects a police officer to live a simply yet credible and dignified life.

5. Political patronage

All PNP members must inhibit himself from soliciting political patronage on matters pertaining to
assignments, awards, training and promotion.

6. Human rights

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

Article III

Sec. 1 Standard of Police Professionalism

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

Sec. 2 Police Professional Conduct

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

2.2 Commitment of Public Interest – 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. PNP members must avoid and prevent the “malversation”
of human resources, government time, property and funds.

2.3 Non-Partisanship – PNP members shall provide services to everyone without discrimination
regardless of party affiliation in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
2.4 Physical Fitness and Health – 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 facility, and actively participate in
the Physical Fitness and Sports Development Program of the PNP.

2.5 Secrecy Discipline – 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, contents of criminal records,
identities of persons who may have given information to the police in confidence and other
classified information or intelligence material.

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

2.7 Non-Solicitation of Patronage – PNP 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 regards 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.

2.8 Proper Care and use of Public Property – PNP members shall promote and maintain sense
of responsibility in the protection, proper care and judicious disposition and use of public
property issued for their official use or entrusted to their care and custody just like “a good father
of the family.” When the Commander/Director is relieved from his post, all properties/equipment
belonging to the government must be turned-over to the incoming. A committee for the purpose
shall be proper. Hence, it is a taboo for outgoing Commander/Director to detach, remove and
bring home or to his new assignment properties which do not personally belong to him.

2.9 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 shall 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 order 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.

2.10 Devotion to Duty – 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.

2.11 Conservation of Natural Resources – PNP members 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.

2.12 Discipline – PNP members shall conduct themselves properly at all times in keeping with
the rules and regulations of the organization.
 2.13 Loyalty – PNP members shall be loyal to the Constitution and the police service as
manifested by their loyalty to their superiors, peers and subordinates as well.

2.14 Obedience to Superiors – PNP members shall obey lawful orders of 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.

2.15 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 safeguard against losses thru
illegal or improper disposition.

Sec. 3 Police Professional Conduct

Ethical Standards shall refer to established and generally accepted moral values. Ethical acts to be
observed are the following:

3.1 Morality – PNP members shall adhere to high standards of morality and decency and shall
set good examples for other to follow. In no instance during their terms of office, among other
things, 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 operations of such establishments in their respective
areas of responsibilities. They shall be faithful to their lawfully wedded spouses.

3.2 Judicious Use of Authority – PNP members shall exercise proper and legitimate use of
authority in the performance of duty.

3.3 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.

3.4 Justice – PNP members shall strive constantly to respect the right of others 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.

3.5 Humility – 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 shall also recognize their own inadequacies, inabilities and limitations as individuals and
perform their duties without attracting attention or expecting the applause of others.

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

3.7 Perseverance – Once a decision is made, 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.
 Article IV

POLICE CUSTOMS AND TRADITION

Sec. 1 General Statement – The PNP adopts the generally acceptable customs and tradition base on the
desirable practices of the police. These shall serve as inspiration as the PNP endeavor to attain its goals
and objectives.

Sec. 2 Definitions of Terms:

2.1 Customs – established usage or social practices carried on by traditions that have obtained
the force of law.

2.2 Traditions – bodies of beliefs, stories, customs and usage handed down from generation with
the effect of an unwritten law.

2.3 Courtesy – a manifestation or expression of consideration and respect on others.

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

2.5 Social Decorum – a set of norms and standards practiced by members during social and other
functions.

Sec. 3 Police Customs on Courtesy – the following are customs on courtesy in the PNP.

3.1 Salute – is the usual greeting rendered by uniformed members upon and recognizing person
entitled to salute.

3.2 Salute to National Color and Standard – PNP members stand attention and salute the
national color and standard as it pass by them or when the national color is raised or lowered
during ceremony.

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

3.4 Courtesy Calls

The following are the customs on courtesy calls:

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

3.4.2 Christmas call – PNP members pay a Christmas Call on their local executives in
their respective area of responsibility.
 3.4.3 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.

3.4.4 Promotion Call – Newly promoted PNP members call on their unit head. On thus
occasion, they are usually given during recognition.

3.4.5 Courtesy of the Post – the host unit extend hospitality to visiting personnel who
pay respect to the command or unit.

3.4.6 Rank has-its own privilege (RHIP) – the PNP members recognize the practice
that different rank carry with them corresponding privilege.

Sec. 4 POLICE CUSTOM ON CEREMONY

Ceremony – a formal act or set of formal acts established by custom or authority as proper to special
occasion.

4.1 Flag Raising Ceremony – PNP members honor the flag by raising it and singing the National
Anthem before the start of the official day’s work for the week.

4.2 Flag Retreat Ceremony – at the end of the official day’s work PNP members pause for a
moment to salute the lowering of the flag.

4.3 Half-mast – the flag is raised at half-mast in difference to deceased uniform/civilian member
of the command.

4.4 Funeral Service and Honor – Department uniformed members, retired war veterans are
given vigil, necrological services and graveside honor as a gesture of farewell.

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

4.6 Honor Ceremony – Arrival and departure honor ceremonies are tendered to visiting
dignitaries, VIPs PNP officers with the grade of Chief Superintendent and above and AFP
officers of equivalent grade.

4.7 Turn-Over Ceremony – the relinquishment and assumption of command key position is
publicly announced in a Turn-Over ceremony by the incoming- outgoing officers in the presence
of the immediate superior or his representative and key officials.

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

4.9 Anniversary – the birth or institutional establishment of a command or unit is

commemorated in an Anniversary Ceremony.

Sec. 5 POLICE CUSTOM ON SOCIAL DECORUM

Social Decorum – a set of norms and standards of practice by members during social and other functions.
 5.1 Proper Attire – PNP members always wear appropriate and proper attire in conformity with
the occasion.

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

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

5.4 Uniform/Appearance – the public looks upon a PNP member 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 is neat in appearance and
wearing the prescribed uniform, they therefore observe the following:

5.4.1 Wearing of prescribed uniform.

5.4.2 Wearing as part of the uniform, awards and decorations earned in accordance with
the prescribed rules and regulations.
5.4.3 Adherence to haircut prescribed by rules and regulations.
5.5 Manner of Walking – every PNP member is expected to walk with pride and dignity.

Sec. 6 OTHER POLICE CUSTOMS

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

6.2 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.

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

6.4 Athletics – all PNP members indulge in physical fitness activities to ensure 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 the organization.

6.5 Happy Hour – usually on Friday or any other day suitable for the occasion, PNP members
gather together at their PNP club for a light heart jesting or airing of minor gripes.

Sec. 7 TRADITION

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

7.1 Special Belief – the PNP members are traditionally religious and god-loving persons. They
attended religious services together with the member of their family.

7.2 Valor – history attest that Filipino law officers have exemplified the tradition of 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.
 7.3 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.

7.4 Discipline – the discipline of PNP members are manifested by institutive obedience to lawful
orders and through and spontaneous actions towards attainment of organization objectives guided
by moral, ethical and legal norms.

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

7.6 Word of Honor – the PNP member’s word is their bond. They stand by and commit to
uphold it.

7.7 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.

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

7.9 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.

Police Community Relations

The Philippine National Police as an organization is part of the community it serves. Every
policeman shall concern himself on maintaining meaningful relation with the community. In these 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 must be coupled with firmness
in order to command respect.
Community relation is like a three-legged tool of an equal importance in holding the stool
upright. One leg is Public relations in its traditional sense. The second is community service. The third
leg is Community participation and this is the facet of the total community relations job that is being
emphasized today in police community relation programs.
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 the some ways different
from ourselves.
This suggests that problem solving can be an exacting educational experience. It involves the
ideas 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 period or major disorder. It is to who portray the police
officer as a “professional citizen”, gradually to rid the police officer of what has been called the PAKIAH
complex.

Police Community Relation – is the sum total of dealings of the police and the people it serves and
whose goodwill and cooperation it craves for the greatest possible efficiency in the service.
Types of Police Community Relations:

The basic ingredients in the effective observance of police community relation include the following:

1. Public information program

2. Public relation program
3. Civic action program
4. Psychological program

1. Public information program

– This is designed to bridge any communication gap between the police and public. This is the
basic among the first four programs of community relation.

a. Duties of Public Information Officers:

1. He must be kept well-informed so that he will understand and appreciate the complexities of
police work and the good service the police render to the community.
2. He must be informed that the greatest number of the police in the community shall benefit as
much as possible by using mass and personal media.

b. Activities Implemented by Public Information Officer:

1. Conduct of barangay tanod seminars.
2. 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 unit’s offices of police
district.
7. Police officer delivers Lectures and Public appearance to hear civic group and civic
organizations.
8. Discuss with high school students and parents and or teachers association about drug abuse
prevention control.
9. Conduct cleanliness, saturation or information drive where notice of such deficiencies are issued.
10. Established police counseling centers in zones/barangays to provide advise to barangay leaders
on crime prevention and control.

2. Public Relation Program

– This is designed to maintain harmony and mutual support between the police and the
community.

a. Duties of Public Relation Officers:

1. He shall issue press releases from time to time regarding police activities which are public
concern.
2. He shall evolve and conduct public rotation program to promote better and closer relations
between the police and the community.
3. He shall build good image through actual commendable performance, without inefficiency and
corruption.
4. He shall evaluate public opinion and attitude with respect to the policies, methods, personnel of
the police station.
 5. He shall plan and carry out programs aimed at keeping the public informed on police activities.

b. Activities Implemented by Public Relations Officers:

1. Conduct face to face communications including dialogue with the public.
2. Attend social and cultural activities of the barangay, such as birthdays, weddings, baptismal
parties, wake and others.
3. Attend multi-sectoral “ugnayans”, which include religious sects, schools, barangays, civic
organization and governmental agencies.
4. Sending letters of application to citizens who assist 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 setting disputes at barangay level.

3. Civic Action Program

– This is designed to maintain and encourage community development.

a. Duties of a Civic Action Officer:

1. He shall encourage and actively participate in athletic competitive in promoting youth
development by wisely coordinating with the social elements of the populace.
2. He shall initiate if necessary, fund-raising campaigns for juvenile delinquents, who are being
reformed.
3. He shall be alert to safeguard the community against loss and damages on properties and possible
death, in the events of calamity.
4. He shall render every possible assistance, especially to the menfolk in enabling them obtain
means of productive endeavors and discourage them from loitering in the street, or engaging
uneconomic activities such as illegal gambling and others.
5. Whenever feasible, he shall promote and actively participate in the establishment of free medical
and dental civic action with special attention to the community.

b. Activities Implemented by a Civic Action Officer:

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

4. Psychological Program
– designed to condition both friendly and hostile public thereby insuring facilitating the
attainment of the police objectives. This program is designed to influence the opinions, emotions attitude
and behavior of the community so that they will behave in a manner beneficial to the police, either
directly or indirectly. It will condition the citizenry to adhere to the laws of the land dissuade them in
committing crime. These may be in spoken, written, pictorial or musical form.

a. Duties of Psychological Operation Officers:

1. Strive to mold the youth into useful and law abiding citizens, thereby minimizing their chances to
engage in the criminal activities and preventing them from being influenced by the misguided
elements of society.
 2. Be adequately prepared to articulate on the gains achieved by the government in formal or
informal gatherings so that they can develop unity and cooperation among people and neutralize
any smear campaign being wage by the elements hostile to our government.
3. Develop an attitude of deep concern for the individuals in his area of operation instead of being
indifferent to their problems.
4. Be instrumental in the development of civic mindedness among the criminal offenders under his
custody by providing examples why crime does not pay.

b. Activities Implemented by Psychological Operation Officer:

1. Conduct seminars for barangay officials, police civic relation officers, and 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 make its Psychological Program effective it may be necessary for appropriate members
of the PNP to conduct “teach ins and live-ins” within the community. These are particularly effective in
the rural areas but should practice sparingly in the cities.

Teach-ins
Members of the PNP assigned to conduct psychological program Operations may gather small
groups of residents, including persons of influence in the community and give lectures or engage the
group in formal conversation. Individuals conducting the teach-in strive to become intimate with the
group to identify their personal problems and offer suggestions on how to solve them, but always with the
support the police mission of eradicating crime and lawlessness.
Live-ins
The live-in is detailed and more extensive version of the teach-ins. Policemen 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 but resident of
known probability and good reputation for at least two days, defending 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 the most urgent problems of the family
with whom he is contracting the live-ins in order to find out what assistance he could extend. The
assistance may have to take the form of 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.

COMPARISON

TEACH INS LIVE-INS

 The conductor is looking for gravest personal The conductor is looking for the urgent
problems of individual group. problem of the family.

The conductor will not stay in the house of the The conductor will stay in the house of the
subject. subject.

The conductor is not a long time resident of The conductor must have a long time
the community. resident in the community.

The conductor will take several hours and as The conductor will take at least two days
much as possible extend up to night time. depending upon the evaluation.

The Barangay

It 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, Barangay 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 Barangay or Barrio 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/authorities presence of any known criminal or
suspicious character in his jurisdiction.
3. To conduct surveillance on suspicious activities or group within his district or barrio and to report
immediately to the police authorities 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/police authorities.
5. To assist law enforcement/police authorities in tracing the whereabouts of missing persons,
arresting escape prisoners and other fugitives from justice and recovering properties and
confiscating contrabands.
6. To assist law enforcement/police authorities and other competent authorities in the service or the
execution of warrants and other judicial processes.
7. To coordinate closely with and actively assist law enforcement/police authorities in the drives
against all forms of vice, smuggling, carnapping, drug addiction, juvenile delinquency, violation
of special laws and all other forms of lawlessness.

KATARUNGANG PAMBARANGAY

Role of Barangay

As the basic unit of government, the barangay serves as the primary planning and implementing unit of
state politics, plans, program, projects and activities in the community, and as 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/Municipality for amicable settlement of all disputes except:
a. Where one party is the government or any subdivision or instrumentality thereof;
b. Where on party is a public officer or employee and the dispute relates to the performance
of his official functions;
c. Offenses punishable by imprisonment exceeding one (1) year or a fine exceeding five
thousand pesos (P5,000.00);
d. Offenses where there is no private offended party;
e. Where dispute involved real properties located in the different cities or municipalities
unless the parties thereto agree to submit their differences to amicable settlement by an
appropriate lupon;
f. 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;
g. Such other disputes which the president determine in the interest of justice upon
recommendation of the Secretary of Justice.

Principles 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
undone 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 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.

Principles of Public Service Ethics:

a. Public Service. Public servants should treat their office as a public trust, only using power and
resources of public office to the advance public interest, and not to attain personal benefit or
pursue any other private interest incompatible with the public good.

b. Objective Judgment. Public servants should employ independent objective judgment in

performing their duties, deciding all matters on the merits, free from avoidable conflicts of
interest and both real and apparent improper influences.
 c. Accountability. Public servants should assure that government is conducted openly, effectively,
equitably and honorably in a manner that permits the citizenry to make informed judgments and
hold government officials accountable.

d. Democratic Leadership. Public servants should honor and respect the principles and spirit of
representative democracy and set a positive example of good citizenship, scrupulously observing
the letter and spirit of laws and rules.

e. Respectability. Public servants should safeguard public confidence in the integrity of

government being honest, fair, caring and respectful and by avoiding conduct creating the
appearance of impropriety or which is otherwise unbefitting a public official.

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.
5. High standard of management and operation.

Structure Components of Police Community Relation (PCR)

What is Police Information and Education?

These are communication activities utilizing the various forms of media. These geared towards
crating consciousness and awareness among target audience on facts and issues vital to the development
of an efficient, respected, and supported police force. The two major components are Community
Information and Institutional Information.

Community Information – these are activities utilizing the various forms of media directed
towards the public at large. These are designed to increase the public’s 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.

Institutional Information – these are activities utilizing the various forms of Media directed
towards the public at large designed to generate trust, confidence and popular support for the police
organization or simply enhancing public perception and knowledge about the police as an institution of
the government.

What does it mean by Police Community Affairs?

These are activities outside law enforcement but which necessitates PNP support and or
participation. The end result ultimately contributes to better appreciation and an enhanced support to the
police organization in whole in part by the populace. The three major sub-components are Community
Assistance and Development; Community Inter-Relations; and Community Organization and
Mobilization.
 Community Assistance and Development – these are under taken upon the initiative of the
police unit or personnel for the purpose of enhancing life as a means of drawing the support, appreciation
and support of the public towards the police organization. Examples are:
1. Skills, Livelihood, and Cooperative Development
2. Sports and Socio-cultural Development
3. Medical and Dental Outreach Services
4. Tree Planting

Community Inter-Relations – these are under taken upon the initiative of other government
agencies, non-governmental organization, and or individual citizens whereby a police organization or
personnel actively contributes time, money and or service as a means of drawing the support,
appreciation, and cooperation of the public towards the police organization in whole in or part.

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 in the conduct of law services, community
works and the like.

Comprehensive PCR Plans

The two major components of the plan are Internal Reform and Gaining of Institutional Support.
Both aims to improve the image of the PNP and re-assure the general public that they can depend on the
police organization to be their protector and guardian in order to hasten and facilitate community
mobilization for anti-crime efforts. he following institutions shall be the priority target in internal reform:

1. Congress – being the law making body, it is one of the vital governmental institutions that can
support the police organization. The police organization must muster enough support from
Congress so that laws needed to enhance its capabilities to safeguard peace and other of the
community and ensure public safety as well as laws on organizational development and
modernization maybe enacted.

2. Liaison Office
a. Organization Level Liaison: 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 police office. Since relationship with this
institution must be symbiotic then this office shall also be responsible in giving general,
special, technical assistance to Congress as pertains to the police office.
b. Top Hierarchy Level Liaison: 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 police affairs in order to present for their
appreciation and support on matters affecting the police office.
c. Special Individual Liaison: Monitoring and Assessment of activities and special activities
of general liaison.

3. Media – this is unquestionably most powerful instrument in forming public opinion. Specific
activities to be taken with respect to this institution include:
a. Development of guidelines on Media-Police relationship. This guideline shall form the
basis of the 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 police office to deserving media personalities.

4. Church – the opinion of church leaders carries much weight among the religious. It need not
underscore that a pastoral letter read through out the country carries great impact.
a. Liaison with important church personalities.
b. Monitoring and assessment.
c. Special activities.

5. The Students and the School – one of the potent allies of the PNP when properly exploited
through:
a. Effective liaison with key school authorities
b. Monitoring and assessment
c. Involvement and support in different school activities such drug education program,
crime prevention program, immunization and vaccination program, organization of
Junior Police, and medical or dental outreach program in coordination with Commission
on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education (DEPED), and Department of
Health (DOH).

6. The Non-Government Organizations – these are socio-civic organizations involved in the

uplifting the welfare of the public through varied programs and activities that support the
endeavors of the government. They could also help in the building of the image of the police.
a. Identification/assessment of existing NGO.
b. Liaison with the NGO.
c. Mobilization of NGO in support of police programs and projects.

What are the Public Information and Propaganda Operations?

1. On Internal Security – these shall be intensified information on evils of the ideology and actual
terrorist operations through regular issuance of press release.

2. On Crime Prevention and Law Enforcement – these shall be sustained information drive on how
the public can reach public assistance and the utilization of the tri-media on modus operandi
safety and the like.

3. On public Safety – these are:

a. Intensified information drive on pre disaster preparedness;

b. Support information drive on how to get government assistance when affected by
calamity or disaster; and
c. Intensified information campaign to generate awareness and sympathy for the victims of
calamities and disasters with the aim of gaining relief and other support to them.

Conducting Internal Reforms Thru:

1. Continuous Values Orientation and Skill Development of Personnel: Intensification of police

education and values orientation; and Internalization of the Code of Ethics and Professional
 Standard of the police, moral and spiritual values and basic courtesies relative to Law
Enforcement.

2. Unrelenting clean up of the organization of misfits, criminal elements, and leaders with low
potential. These can be done by the continuous investigation, suspicion or dismissed of misguided
and erring police level at all level.

3. Unrelenting effort to brighten up the physical appearance of the police facilities and vehicle.
Sprucing (make neat and tidy) up of all police station or offices to create a public friendly
atmosphere therein and the exercise of proper care.

Feedback and Evaluation System – one method of determining whether individual police officers are
performing their tasks well is through feedback and evaluation which considers the following:

1. Limitation – involves the conduct of scheduled and run scheduled visits to check performance,
appearance, and behavior of the police personnel and the state of the police 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 police unit or office.
3. Records – involves the submission and analysis of periodic reports and special reports by police
units as required.
4. Interviews – involves the conduct of casual and or structured interviews of selected individuals
who can provide insight on the current state of police community relation.
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.

What are the Effects or Impacts of Poor PCR to the Public?

Poor PCR programs cause the public:

a. not to report the occurrence of crime;
b. not to come forward and provide information;
c. not to assist in apprehension of criminals;
d. not to be supportive of police activities;
e. not to testify in court voluntarily; and
f. to even aid the criminals.

Poor Police Community Relation makes the police to:

a. become less judicious and less discreet;
b. be reluctant to act on some matters needing police action;
c. induces unnecessary use of force;
d. induce verbal abuse;
e. induce improper practices;
f. feel isolated and unhappy in his community; and
g. diminish his sense of fulfillment.

Why Public Support is Needed?

Public support is needed to make it easier for the police to accomplish their task successfully.
PUBLIC RELATION
This is a program designed to make the public aware of what the agency is doing, why is it doing,
and how it contributes to the welfare of the community.

General Concept of Public Relations:

Public relations is the sum total of the attitudes, impressions and opinions of the public in its
relationship with the police department. It is the development of a public attitude favorable to the
accomplishment of the police purpose. An important factor in gaining the goodwill and confidence of the
people is the fostering among the members of the department, of an attitude of courtesy and goodwill
toward the people. To most people, the individual policeman is representative of the entire department, a
sort of goodwill ambassador. To visitors, he is the public representative of the city; his department creates
impressions that are either favorable or unfavorable.
The very nature of police work involves regulating and controlling the behavior of the public and,
therefore, presents many unpleasant and disagreeable tasks. Any discipline and control, even when
exercised in a tactful, fair and reasonable manner, may be resented by some people, but when an arrogant
or officious officer attempts to enforce a law, his attitude is resented by the public, to the detriment not
only of the department but of every agency and organization concerned with governmental functions.

Objective of Police Public Relations:

1. To maintain and develop the goodwill and confidence of the public for the police.
2. To obtain public cooperation and assistance.
3. To develop public understanding, support and appreciation for the services of the police.
4. To create broader understanding and sympathy with the problems and needs of the police.
5. To facilitate law-enforcement and law-compliance.
6. To build public opinion in favor of the police.
7. To achieve the police purpose of preserving the peace, protecting life and property, and the
prevention of crime.

Types of Public Relation Programs:

1. Public Awareness Programs
2. Informational Programs
3. Image Building Programs

Public Awareness Programs

– familiarizing the public with the true nature of police operations. This includes:

a. Mobile Vans – variety of displays and exhibits 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
and popular ways in which the police can bring the messages to the public.
c. Informative Materials – distribution of pamphlets or brochures designed to explain their services
to the public.
d. Open House – public tours of facility conducted during certain times of the year such as police
week, or law observance week.
e. Public Speakers – providing 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.

Informational Programs
 – providing the public with information which is directly related to the interest and needs of the
community. This includes:

a. New Arrivals – making some members of the community feel 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. Information Bureaus – information about such things as renewal of drivers license, payments of
utility bills, availability of legal services and other items.
d. Information Brochures – provide the public with booklets, pamphlets, and other types of
publications, which contain information of community interest.

Image Building Programs

– promoting programs which are designated to create a more favorable public image of the police.
This can be achieved through:
a. Citizens Awards
b. Police Color Guards
c. Police Citizens Luncheons
d. Operational Handshake
e. Recruit Visitation Programs
f. Community Events
g. Gifts Packages

What are the duties of the Public Relation Officer?

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 department programs, policies, procedures and activities.
3. To plan and to carry out programs aimed at keeping the public informed on police activities.
4. To provide staff supervision of all the police activities that may influence public support.

Ten Commandments of Human Relations:

1. Speak to people. There is nothing as nice as cheerful word of greeting.
2. Smile at people. It takes 65muscles to frown: only 15 to smile.
3. Call people by name. The sweetest music to anyone’s ears is the sound of his own name.
4. Be friendly and helpful. If you would have friends, be friendly.
5. Be cordial. Speak and act as if everything you do were a genuine pleasure.
6. Be genuinely interested in people. You can like everybody if you try.
7. Be generous with praise but cautious with criticism.
8. Be considerate with feelings of other. It will be appreciated.
9. Be thoughtful of the opinion of other. There are three side to a controversy: yours, the other
fellow’s and the right one.
10. Be alert to give service. What counts most in life is what we do for others.

Foundation of Public Relations – “Do not do unto others what you do not want others do unto you”.

Foundation of Public Relations:

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.
Public Relations may be Summed Up as follows:
1. Know yourself.
2. Know the people around you.
3. Adjust your relationship with them.

Fundamental Theories of Police Service:

A. The Continental Theory – policemen are considered as servants of the higher authorities, and
the people have little or no share at all in their duties, nor any direct connection with them. This
theory prevails among the continental countries like France, Italy, Spain, where governmental
structure follows the centralized pattern.

B. The Home Rule Theory – policemen are considered as servants of the community, who depend
for the effectiveness of their functions upon the express wishes of the people. In this theory,
policemen are civil employees whose primary duty is the preservation of the public peace and
security. This is practice in England and USA, where the governmental structure is decentralized
pattern.

Concepts of Police Service:

1. Old concept – the old concept of police service looked upon the police as merely a repressive
machinery. This old philosophy means throwing more people in jail rather than keeping them out
of jail. Under this concept, punishment is the sole instrument of crime control. The yardstick of
efficiency of the police is more on arrest.

2. Modern concept – the modern concept of police service considers the police as an organ of
crime prevention. Police service today had broadened its activities to include certain aspects of
social services, and has for its objectives the welfare of the individual as well as that of society.
Under this philosophy, the yardstick of efficiency of the people is the absence of crime.

A clear picture of the modern and concepts of police service is shown in the definition of crime
prevention as distinguished from crime repression. Crime prevention means eradication of the desire on
the part of the potential criminal to commit a crime, while crime repression means the elimination of the
opportunity existing on the part of the would be criminal to commit a crime. In the crime prevention
aspect, three processes are usually involved:
a) The eradication of the wholesome influences,
b) The provisions of wholesome influences, and
c) The correction by individual treatment or adjustment of any damage that has been done to the
intellectual-emotional conditions.

Four (4) Cardinal Virtues that Serves as the Basis of Formulating the Standard Behavior of
Policemen

1. Prudent – it is one’s ability to govern and discipline oneself by means of reason and sound
judgment. It is a virtue which attracts the intellect to choose the most effective means for
accomplishing what is morally good and for avoiding what is morally evil.
 2. Temperance – it is one’s ability to moderate or to avoid something. It is a virtue which regulates
the carnal appetite for sensual pleasures.
3. Fortitude – firmness of mind. It is the courage to endure without yielding. A virtue which incites
courage.
a. Patience – calmness and composure in enduring something.
b. Perseverance – it is the ability to go despite of obstacle or opposition.
c. Endurance – it is the ability to last.

3. Justice – it is a virtue that includes the will to give to each one his rights.

Three (3) Divisions of Justice

1. Cumulative justice – it is a virtue that regulates those actions that involves the right that exists
between one individual and another individual. Any violation of commutative justice imposes in
the guilty person the duty of restitution (the duty of repairing the harm caused). Example: SPO1
dela Cruz violates commutative justice if he steals the gun of Pat Reyes.
2. Distributive justice – it regulates those actions that involve the rights which an individual may
claim from society. The state must distribute the common burdens and privileges equitably and
must make it possible for each citizen to exercise his rights. Example: A mayor violates
distributive justice if he confers an honorably title of an undeserving relatives of his.
3. Legal justice – it is a virtue that regulates those actions which society may justly require of the
individual for the common good. Example: The state may make laws concerning imports. If a
man smuggles contraband into a country he violates legal justice.

Kinds of Police Public Relations:

1. Individual public relations – is the dealings which a person makes with his family, friends,
neighbors, school and community in his capacity as private individual.
2. Professional public relations – is the dealing which a person makes with the general public in
his professional or occupational capacity.
3. Institutional public relations – is the dealing which an institution or an organization makes with
the public or other similar institutions or organizations in its corporate capacity.

Categories of Police Officer’s Individual Public Relations:

1. Domestic relations – consists of a person dealing with his family, parents and immediate
relatives with whom he has to have good relationship to deserve a respectable family prestige and
community relations.
2. Neighborhood relations – consist of a person’s dealings with neighbors who constitute a vital
link to good reputation in the community.
3. Community relations – consist of a person dealing with the citizens of the community, city or
town where a person lives, and his membership or contribution to the civic organizations or
community associations in the locality.
4. Church relations – consist of a person’s activity in the religious congregation or faith where he
belongs.
5. Governmental relations – consist of the dealings which a person makes with the government
and its various instrumentalities.

Categories of Police Officer’s Professional Public Relations:

 1. Intra-departmental relations – consist of the police officer’s relations with the officers and men
of his own department, his superior, and the chief of police as well as the chief executive of the
city or municipality.
2. Inter-departmental relations or relations with other police agencies – consist in his
cooperation and dealings with national, city and municipal police organizations and other law-
enforcement agencies of the government.
3. Citizen’s relations – includes all dealings or contracts with the citizen in relation to the
enforcement of the law and the maintenance of peace and order, together with the giving of
information to the public, the control of traffic, juvenile delinquency prevention, inspection of
amusement places, clearance of people and other non-criminal duties.
4. Complainants’ relations – include a police officer dealing with complaints, the technique of
interview, and manner of approach and treatment of witness as well as informers.
5. Relations with accused persons – consist in the proper treatment of suspects, the recognition of
their constitutional rights during investigation and the handling of accused persons during
confinement.
6. Relations with government prosecutor or fiscal – include a police officers duty to cooperate
during preliminary investigation and gathering of further evidence when so required by the fiscal.
7. Judicial relations – consist of the police officer’s duties toward the courts when appearing as a
witness and the honesty in his testimony.
8. Governmental relations – includes all dealings with other non-police agencies or officers of the
government, both national and local, in connection with official duties such as request for
verifications, coordination and whatever help.

Dealing with Complainants – police officers when dealing with complainants shall observe the
following:

1. Receiving Complaints – when a citizen calls at police station or approaches a police on the
street to make a complaint, he should be accorded a suitable reception. The police officer must
adopt an attractive manner; his attitude alert, his face and voice pleasant, and he must appear
interested in the subject at hand. Timid citizens often dread police officers; they should make
great effort to place these timid citizens at ease.

2. 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 should immediately offer his service by posing a simple question such as “May I do
something for you, Sir?” 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 his purpose.

3. Attention to the 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.

4. Receiving Complaints and Criticisms against the Police – 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
 suggestion 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.

5. Legitimate Complaints against the Police – the police station itself influences the attitudes of
both the police and the public. The public does not react favorably to an ill smelling dark, poorly
kept, and (human) 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 janitor services.

General Rules on Official Conduct – all police officers shall adhere to the following in the performance
of their duties:

1. Police shall be habitually courteous. They shall recognize their responsibilities as public servants
and shall be particularly attentive to citizens who seek assistance or information or who desire to
register complaints or give evidence.
2. They shall accept their responsibility to the public by being punctual in their engagements and
expeditions in the performance of their duties.
3. They shall regard their office as a public trust, and in the discharge of their duties, be constantly
mindful of their primary obligation to serve the public efficiently and effectively.
4. They shall administer the law in a just, impartial and reasonable manner; and not accord to some,
more reasonable manner and more treatment than to others. They shall recognize the limitations
of their authority and at no time use the power of their office for their own personal advantage.
5. They shall be true to their obligation as custodian of public property and shall bear in mind that
the misuse and waste of money from the public treasury is bad.
6. They shall not limit their effectiveness in the administration of their office by accepting tokens of
gratitude, or by giving preferential treatment to certain corporations with whom they may have
official dealings.
7. They shall cooperate fully with all other public officials to the end that the safety and general
welfare of the public will be assured. They shall not permit jealousies or personal differences to
influence their cooperation with other agencies.
8. They shall add to their effectiveness by diligent study and sincere attention to improvement. They
shall welcome the opportunity to disseminate practical and useful information relating to matters
of the public’s safety and welfare.
9. They shall conduct their public and private life that the public will regard them as examples of
stability, fidelity and morality.
10. They shall bear faithful allegiance to their government, and be loyal to their profession. They
shall accept, as a sacred obligation their responsibility as citizens to support the Constitution of
the Philippines; and as public officials, consider the privilege of defending the principles of
Liberty as defined in our Constitution and Law. This is the greatest honor that may be bestowed
upon any man.

Communities in Community Relations

In PCR, the police are not actually dealing with a single community but rather to various
communities with distinct characteristics. These communities could be categorized into External and
Internal Communities.
The External Communities
a. Justice Community – other police agencies, courts and correctional 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.
b. The Human Services Community – the human services umbrella includes many public and
private and social service resources, mental and health general services, media civic and religious
groups and educational services.
c. Citizens and the Police – peel's principles state the police must secure the willing cooperation of
the public in voluntary observance of the law to be able to secure and maintain public respects.
Part of the police community relations is the understanding of the public the police serve and
having the public understands the police. That is no easy task. The public is many people with
any varying needs and hopes, who live in a changing society and bring to that society conflicting
values and cultural rules. The police agency is relatively closed,. Somewhat secretive, and vague
as to what the police role and the citizen role should be.

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

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 of
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 any time.
3. Requesting the community assistance in identifying scalawags as a basis of 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 inept study and to initiate the immediate assignment of police to every Barangay to serve
the police needs and to call upon residents and oversee their well being.

What are the Types of Police Public Relations?

1. Public Awareness Programs – familiarizing the public with the true nature of police operations.
This includes:
a. Mobile Vans – variety of displays and exhibits 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 during certain designed to explain their
services to the public.
d. Open House – Public tours of facility conducted during certain times of the years such as
police week, or law observance week.
e. Public Speakers – providing 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. Informational Programs – providing the public with information which is directly related to the
interest and needs of the community. This includes:
a. New Arrivals – making some members of the community feel at home in their new
surroundings.
b. Traffic Advisory Report – 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 license,
payments of utility bills, availability of legal services and other items.
d. Informational Brochures – provide the public with booklets, pamphlets, and other types of
publication, which contain information of community interest.
3. Image Building Programs – promoting programs which are designed to create a more favorable
public image of the police. This can be achieved though:
a. Citizens awards
b. Police Color Guards
c. Police Citizens Luncheons
d. Operational Handshake
e. Recruit Visitation Programs
f. Community Events
g. Gift Packages

What are the duties of the Public Relations Officer?

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 department programs, policies, procedures and activities.
3. To plan and to carry out programs aimed at keeping the public informed on police activities.
4. To provide staff supervision of all police activities that may influence public support.

End…. More to follow

Ironwill’09