Professional Documents
Culture Documents
FRONTLINERS
An Undergraduate Thesis
Presented to
KERVIE CAMPOMANES
JUNILYN DANLAS
RICHARD LACAY
ROSEMARIE MAGSAYO
TIMOTHY VILLANOS
May 2022
Republic of the Philippines
JOSE MEMORIAL STATE UNIVERSTIY
The Premier State University in Zamboanga Del Norte
Dipolog Campus, Dipolog City
APPROVAL SHEET
Adviser
Chairman
Member Member
Adviser
ii
Approved by the panel of examination on oral defense on _______________
with the rating of ______________.
Member Member
Adviser
Date Signed:_______
Date Signed:_______
iii
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to assess the effects of covid – 19 pandemic on the police force
as front liners, this academic year 2021-2022. It used descriptive research utilizing
questionnaire as the main instrument in gathering data. The data were statistically treated
using frequency counting, weighted mean and chi square test. The result shows that most
of the respondents are patrolman in terms of their ranks. Regarding their duties and
investigation, traffic, police relation and WCPD. On the other hand, researchers found out
that the effects of covid-19 pandemic in terms of their health will depend on the long
hours of exposure in community have the higher risk of getting infected by the virus. In
addition, the study also revealed that in terms of their performance covid-19 pandemic
really brings extra burden to the police authorities as well as the wearing of PPE’s while
on duty limits the mobility of their work. Aside from that with regards to family aspect
research shows that covid-19 pandemic limits family recreation and hinders physical
interaction with the family. Lastly, there is a significant difference between the effects of
covid-19 pandemic to the police force when grouped according to their rank and duties
which implies that the effects of COVID-19 pandemic to the police force as front liners
will depend on the rank classification or status of the members of the Philippine National
Police (PNP). Further, the rank and nature of the duties and responsibilities of the
members of the PNP is somehow a determining factor on how the COVID-19 pandemic
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DEDICATION
This study is wholeheartedly dedicated to our beloved parents, who have been our
source of inspiration, who give us strength when we thought of giving up and who
knowledge, we offer you this work as a sign of gratitude. Thank you so much.
To our brothers and sisters, relatives, mentors, friends, and classmates who shared
And lastly, we dedicated this research to the Almighty God thank you for the
guidance, strength, power of mind, protection and skills and for giving us a healthy life.
THE RESEARCHERS
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The researcher would like to extend grateful thanks to the following who in one
way or another, have extended their support in the fulfillment of this work.
To the parents of the researchers, for the moral and financial assistance;
To Rosenda B. Borres, MA for her moral support and time spent for the
To the research professor Ester J. Laput, MAED for her valuable instructions,
writing assistance, encouragement, patience, and suggestions which made us to face all
Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), for the support and brilliant ideas to make this study
Above everything, to the Almighty God for the guidance, strength, wisdom, and
for the provision of all our needs both academic and financial purposes.
THE RESEARCHERS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
TITLE PAGE i
APPROVAL SHEET ii
ABSTRACT iv
DEDICATION v
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT vi
LIST OF TABLES x
LIST OF FIGURE x
CHAPTER
Introduction 1
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework 2
Schematic Diagram 5
Hypothesis 6
Definition of Terms 7
Literature 10
Studies 15
viii
3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research method 18
Research Environment 18
Research Respondent 18
Research Instrument 19
DATA
RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary of Findings 32
Conclusion 33
Recommendations 34
BIBLIOGRAPHY 36
APPENDICES
A The Questionnaire 39
B Certificate of Validation 42
C Photo Documentation 44
ix
D Certification of English Editor 45
E Curriculum Vitae 47
x
LIST OF TABLES
xi
LIST OF FIGURES
xii
CHAPTER I
Introduction
depending on where you live. Covid-19 has upended societies and dramatically altered
everyday life across the globe. Our present circumstances, while unprecedented, have
been profoundly shaped by persistent societal realities such as entrenched racial and
economic inequality, the proliferation of misinformation, and anxieties about the ability
of the world’s democracies to confront major crises. The lifestyles and experiences that
law enforcement officers engage in everyday can only be understood by those who work
in law enforcement. Officers’ lives are put at risk to save others’ lives. As criminals are
arrested, society feels justice is served. This justice comes at a price, as some law
Policing is one of the most mentally taxing occupations contending with long and
often rotating shifts, threats of violence, increased need for hyper vigilance, and a lack of
public support creating chronic stress (Harley et.al 2003). As a result, law enforcement
officers suffer from mental health problems at a rate greater than the general population
even before dealing with added pandemic challenges, stress, and uncertainty (Hartley et
al., 2011).
The lives of the police officers are stressful for several reasons. First, the officers
put their lives at risk every day. Second, the officers are involved in events such as
domestic issues, witnessing fatalities, and especially this COVID-19 pandemic. Stress is a
factor, and depending on whether the officer copes with the traumatic events in a positive
2
or negative manner in some cases determines the overall psychological well-being and
The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) Guidance like social distancing, wearing
face mask, and face shield and implementing Curfew to prevent spreading of virus. The
new rule and regulations on who can work, and from where, have turned lives upside
down. These developments have added new tasks for police organizations. And they have
changed the demands on, and expectations, of policing at a time when resources are
already stretched in part due to absenteeism directly caused by COVID – 19. In addition,
police organizations must deal with operational duties while protecting themselves
against infection.
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework
The study anchored on Republic Act No. 11469 also known as “Bayanihan to
Heal As One Act" this was issued declaring a State of Public Health Emergency
throughout the Philippines due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the
Code Alert System for COVID-19 was raised to Code Red Sublevel Two (2) in
accordance with the recommendation of the Department of Health (DOH) and the Inter-
Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. Further
Presidential Proclamation No. 929, s. 2020, was issued declaring a State of Calamity
Luzon. In view of the continuing rise of confirmed cases of COVID-19, the serious threat
to the health, safety, security, and lives of our countrymen, the long-term adverse effects
on their means of livelihood, and the severe disruption of economic activities, a state of
national emergency is hereby declared over the entire country. The study relied on
3
Benigno Aquino III in 2014. It was organized as the government's instrument to assess,
monitor, contain, control and prevent the spread of any potential epidemic in the
Philippines. Constitution provides that the State shall protect and promote the right to
health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. Furthermore, the DOH
Secretary may recommend to the President the enlistment of the Armed Forces of the
Philippines to supplement the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement
agencies for the purpose of enforcing the quarantine of specific areas or facilitating the
transport of EID patients, and for such other purposes for the effective implementation of
this Order.
The Task Force shall have the following functions: Establish a system to identify,
screen, and assist Filipinos suspected or confirmed to be infected with EID. Prevent
and/or minimize the entry of suspected or confirmed patients with EID into the country.
This should include rigid screening and identification of EID suspects, and the
Prevent and/or minimize the local spread of EID in the country through the establishment
effective quarantine and proper isolation procedures. Prevent and/or minimize mortality
Educate the public on EID and its prevention, control and management to promote
positive health behaviors, and address public fear and anxiety through the conduct of a
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nationwide EID awareness campaign. Adopt measures to strengthen the Emerging and
Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases Program of the DOH or its equivalent in other local
health units. Notify the WHO of the EID cases in the country and its assessment of the
EID situation. Submit to the Office of the President regular status reports in the
monitoring of EID. Formulate, develop, implement, and oversee the EID Preparedness
Manual for the prevention and control of EID, and Perform such other functions and
activities as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Order, or as the President
may direct.
The schema of the study is presented in Figure 1. The first box on the upper left
side is the independent variable which the Police Force response as front liners in terms
of performance, family and economic. The second box on the upper right side is the
dependent variable which contains the effects of covid – 19 pandemic on the police force
as front liners. The last box is the intervening variable which contains the police’s profile
Profile of the
Respondents
Ranks
Duties
INTERVENING VARIABLES
pandemic on the police force as front liners in Dipolog City during the academic year
2020-2021.
1.2. Duties?
2. What are the effects of Covid – 19 Pandemic to the police officers as front liners in
terms of:
2.1 Health;
2.3 Family?
Hypothesis
The primary reason why the researchers chose the topic "Effects of COVID-19
pandemic on the police force as front liners, is to know and determine the effects of
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COVID -19 pandemic on the police when they are conducting their task and to see the
effects of Covid-19 to the family, economic, and performance of the police officer while
doing their task. The researchers firmly believe that this study is significant and befitted
the following:
COMMUNITY. This study will spread awareness to people in how their simple
efforts in mitigating the spread of the COVID- 19 and will help in eradicating this virus.
THE POLICE OFFICER. The police officer are the main respondent and
beneficiary of this study. The study revolves around the effects and risk factors gain by
the Covid-19 pandemic. They would also be aware about the facts and danger they
THE FAMILY. This study would help the family members have information and
the facts as to what danger and possible risk they may encounter. In the fact that this
would help them to be aware of this kind of situation or they may avoid the possible
outcome.
researcher insight that would serve as a guide in their own research work.
This research mainly focuses on the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the police
force as front liners in Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office Dipolog City Police
Definition of Terms
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newly discovered corona virus. Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will
experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without special treatment (WHO).
ensuring the integrity and security of the information and systems it maintains.
Front liners - in this study it refers to the police officers who enforced the
Health – it refers to the physical, mental, and social well-being of the police
Highway Patrol Group (HPG) - is either a police unit created primarily for the
a detail within an existing local or regional police agency that is primarily concerned with
such duties. They are also referred to in many countries as traffic police, although in
other.
diseases in the Philippines.
continents. It affects more people and takes more lives than an epidemic. The World
that the illness was severe and that it was spreading quickly over a wide area (WebMD).
9
government responsible for maintaining public order and safety, enforcing the law, and
Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG) - This group provides security to
This chapter presents a survey of related literature and studies. The review of
conceptual and research literature includes the discussion. The information gathered was
considered to lend insights and support to the findings of the study relevant to the
Related Literature
December 2019. Globally, more than 8 million people had been diagnosed with the virus
and over 439,000 had died as of the 18th of June 2020 (Hopkins 2020). As the novel virus
keeps spreading, healthcare professionals across the globe are faced with an
unprecedented situation of having to make difficult decisions and work under extreme
pressures. Many health systems were caught unaware by the COVID-19 pandemic
leading to panic and confusion in efforts to fight against the infection. This confusion led
to controversial decisions about who should be treated or tested with the available scarce
resources. In a country like Italy, indices such as age were used in deciding who should
The ongoing COVID-191 pandemic has infected millions and killed several
hundred thousand people worldwide. The pandemic has, however, not only created
unforeseen and in many ways unprecedented challenges for the public health sector but
also for law enforcement agencies. Police officers and staff are often directly or indirectly
involved in the pandemic response and have thus a higher risk of getting infected. In
12
addition, many governments have taken emergency measures to protect their population
and slow the spread of the virus. Such actions, including lockdowns, travel bans, and
social distancing rules are often controlled and enforced by the police, creating additional
service demand for law enforcement agencies. This comes on top of existing duties as the
police are expected to maintain order and continue neighborhood policing operations, all
The COVID-19 pandemic has put the world into a situation of uncertainty. Many
organizations are treading on unknown territory and have no blueprint for how to manage
the crisis and its consequences. Police are having to respond to and assist in a public
health crisis enforcing new laws and bylaws that are regularly changing as governments
take information from epidemiologists and virologists on how to manage this global
pandemic. As the government relies on the justice system to ensure community safety and
to protect the community not only from common threats to public or individual safety
such as domestic violence, gangs, guns, or drugs but also from COVID-19, they afford
them with additional powers. How the police carry out those powers and policies during
the pandemic becomes of utmost importance as these drastic measures can impact police
legitimacy. Whether or not the police can successfully respond to this crisis does not only
depend on lawmakers or the government but also on public trust and confidence, and the
public is seeing the police as a legitimate power holder. Research consistently shows that
whether the public trusts the police and views it as legitimate has important consequences
situations such as COVID-19 create, first responders such as the police need to learn from
other agencies and from past experiences with similar scenarios. A key mechanism for
this is the review and academic analysis of disaster management practice and policies.
The literature on law enforcement and disaster management, and specifically research
focusing on public health emergencies, however, is often not practical enough and little is
known about how COVID-19 may impact policing in the short- and long-term (Int J
Disaster Risk Reduct. 2020). Consequently, in these very uncertain times, the police must
understand their impacts, the construct of police legitimacy, the tenets of procedural
justice, and put a substantial amount of effort into avoiding to create an us versus them
During a pandemic, law enforcement agencies and officers play a crucial role to
provide necessary public services and maintain order. Although each public health
emergency is unique with its own challenges, in all incidents, law enforcement responses
must be coordinated with public health, medical, and other essential service authorities
In past outbreaks and pandemics, such as the H1N1 Flu in 1918, Severe Acute
Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2002, and the H1N1 Flu in 2009, law enforcement
agencies were responsible for working with government and public health officials to
contain spread, serve the local community, and maintain public order (Muckenfuss,
2020).
The H1N1 Flu pandemic in 1918 was the worst pandemic of the twentieth century
in the United States, resulting in the deaths of 675,000 in the United States and
14
approximately 50 million people worldwide (Luna, Brito, & Sanberg 2007). During this
pandemic, law enforcement agencies around the U.S. banned large public meetings, and
shut down schools, churches, and theaters (Plaue & Colarossi 2020). Furthermore, police
officers were responsible for patrolling “quarantine zones” and hot spots to reduce the
spread of the flu (Muckenfuss, 2020). Beyond their role in the enforcement of response
measures, officers are also over-exposed to the pandemic and the risk of infection relative
(PPE) has become essential for law enforcement officers to decrease these health risks
(Sanberg, Brito, Luna, & McFadden 2010). For example, during the SARS outbreak in
Canada, the Toronto Police Service’s (TPS) Occupational Health and Safety Unit was
responsible for providing PPE and vital information to agency personnel and protecting
enforcement officers are at a heightened risk of exposure due to their close contact with
members of the public (CDC, 2020). The centers for Disease Control and Prevention
from other individuals to avoid exposure), 2) maintaining proper hand hygiene (washing
hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds), and 3) avoiding touching one’s face
with unwashed hands. Law enforcement officers, though, cannot carry out many of their
duties without being in close personal contact with other people and may not have
immediate access to all necessary sanitization supplies in the field (Barr 2020).
contracting and spreading the virus due to the close quarters (Maruschak, Sabol, Potter,
15
Reid, & Cramer 2009). By early April 2020, over two thousand law enforcement officers
had already tested positive for COVID-19 (the vast majority in New York City), and
thousands more officers reported exposure to an individual with the virus (Cave & Dahir
2020; NPF, 2020). This has led to increased concern among officers about their health
recommendations for first responders, such as law enforcement officers, who anticipate
they may come into contact with persons infected with COVID-19. These CDC
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH); if N-95 respirators are
unavailable, a facemask was listed as an alternative until supply chains are restored], and
eye protection (such as goggles or a disposable face shield). Furthermore, the CDC (2020)
recommends that, should an officer come into contact with an individual during
apprehension, they should clean and disinfect all gear prior to reusing, follow procedure
to properly contain and dispose of the PPE, and follow procedure to properly contain and
launder clothing. If agencies and officers follow these recommendations, the CDC
estimated that the health risk for law enforcement personnel would remain low (CDC,
2020).
The Vera Institute of Justice (2020) provided further guidance on preventative and
responsive measures for law enforcement officers. Their guidance prioritizes prevention
in several key ways, suggesting that agencies should: (1) ensure that 911 dispatchers
divert calls-for-service to health resources when a police response is not necessary; (2)
16
have committed a felony or pose an immediate risk to public safety; (3) suspend protocols
that place people in custody (limiting enforcement of bench warrants, arrest warrants, and
probation or parole violations); (4) limit police response to low-risk incidents to focus on
critical incidents and community health needs (such as traffic stops, noise complaints,
etc.); (5) limit officers who come into contact with department visitors; (6) expand online
reporting options for complaints or police reports; and (7) increase cleaning and
Related Studies
damage, such as terrorism, hurricanes, or earthquakes, a virus pandemic affects how local
law enforcement agencies operate in various ways (Brito, 2009). Most critical incidents,
though, only affect a limited geographic area and do not last very long, allowing other
non-affected agencies to aid the community throughout the most severe phases of the
incident (Brito et al. 2009). A pandemic, on the other hand, affects multiple regions at
once and can continue for an extended period of time, creating challenges at local, state,
federal, and even global levels. During a pandemic, law enforcement agencies and
officers play a crucial role to provide necessary public services and maintain order
(Richards, 2006). Although each public health emergency is unique with its own
challenges, in all incidents, law enforcement responses must be coordinated with public
COVID-19 refers to the infectious disease those results from a novel coronavirus
that was not identified until an outbreak in Wuhan, China in December of 2019.
Pathogens in the coronavirus family may cause acute respiratory infections and difficulty
breathing. The illness resulting from the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, is marked by
infected over 6 million people including 1.7 million in the United States (WHO, 2020).
COVID-19 has spread quickly as interpersonal transmission can occur through respiratory
droplets and contaminated surfaces. As a result, many jurisdictions have enacted stay-at-
home orders, limited work to essential functions, and created social distancing directives.
These decisions have seemingly slowed the spread of COVID-19; still, over 350,000 have
died due to complications connected to the illness including over 100,000 Americans
(WHO, 2020).
Officers are expected and trained to respond to danger and crises. Therefore,
police training should have equipped them with necessary coping resources to resolve
organizations have introduced legal decrees and procedures to meet the demands of the
pandemic (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 2020). While some of
these measures may be helpful, they might also have detrimental effects on officers'
productivity and well-being. Constantly altered safety protocols and policies might limit
officers' attention and complicate interaction with civilians (e.g., PPE may impair field of
events in the past century. As research on COVID-19 and the interrelated public policy
and health ramifications of both the disease and the coordinated response is still in its
infancy, reference to earlier crises that significantly altered law enforcement practices,
namely the start of the HIV epidemic in the 1980s and the attacks of September 11, 2001,
perceptions of safety, job stress, and standard practices of law enforcement officers
including the need to address traumatized members of the public. The COVID-19
pandemic is likely to also affect these domains, but the form of those effects may be
distinct per the unknown nature and already comparatively longer duration of the
Beyond the dangers associated with close contact with the public, the COVID-19
pandemic has also highlighted the potential for intentional contamination of officers. In
March of 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) alerted local police agencies
that extremist groups, such as neo-Nazis and white supremacists, have encouraged their
members who contract COVID-19 to intentionally spread the virus to police officers by
spraying bodily fluids on police officers on the streets (Margolin, 2020). Police officers
positive for the virus (Bates 2020). To protect their officers and decrease these risks,
RESERCH METHODOLOGY
conducting the study. This will also deal with the research design, research locale,
procedure, validation and reliability, research ethics, and statistical treatment of the data
Research method
This study employs the Quantitative survey type of methods. Surveys which
provided for gathering the data from the independent and dependent variables as a one of
Additionally, this study also used questionnaire to have the perception of the
Research Environment
This study was conducted to the police officers in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del
Norte. This location is convenient for the researchers to conduct and at the same time it is
to widely gather profound responses to other Police Officer in the area in respond to
Covid 19 and successfully understand and manage the plethora of challenges that they
encounter.
Research Respondents
The researchers will gather insights among Police Officers in Dipolog City
Zamboanga del Norte. The sample size of the population was determined by the
researchers through Cluster random sampling with the total of 50 respondents. The
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officers. A respondents are having the rank ranging from: Patrolman - Police Master
Sergeant, Police Senior Master Sergeant - Police Executive Master Sergeant, Police
Lieutenant - Police Major, Police Lieutenant Colonel - Police Brigadier General, and
Police Officers or the respondents of the study are within the different sections
some of which are the following but are not limited to: Operation Section, Investigation
Section, Traffic Section, Police Relation Section and WCPD. The respondents will
answer a set of questionnaires provided by the researchers, approved and tested in studies.
Research Instrument
The researcher utilized survey questionnaire. The questionnaire was a self -made
questionnaire consist of a set of questions about the effects of Covid-19 Pandemic among
Police Officers or other types of prompts that aims to collect information from the
the questions the researchers will use published questionnaires from previous researchers
In starting the data gathering of the study, the researcher’s will find their target
respondents which are the Police Officers in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. Before
any survey of respondents, the researchers will provide letter of approval from the
adviser, panel members and the principal for legal measures. The respondents will be
given the checklist questionnaire that will be explained further before the conduct of the
survey in order for them to be guided in answering the questions properly. After all the
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The following statistical tools were used to interpret the data gathered:
Frequency Count and Percentage computation was used to determine the profile
Percentage=(part/whole) x 100
Weighted Mean was used to determine the effects of COVID-19 pandemic to the
Total respondents
The effects of COVID-19 pandemic to the Police Officers as front liners were interpreted
Legend:
Weight Range of Values Description
5 4.21-5.00 Always
4 3.41-4.20 Often
3 2.61-3.40 Sometimes
2 1.81-2.60 Seldom
1 1.00-1.80 Never
Chi-Square Test was used to determine the test of difference on the effects of
COVID-19 Pandemic to the Police Officers as front liners when grouped according to
x2= ∑(O−E)2
E
∑=summation
CHAPTER IV
This chapter presents the data gathered and analyzed by the researcher. The
Problem No.1: What is the profile of the front liners in terms of:
1.2. Duties?
RANK
Table 1 shows the frequency of Police Officer in terms of ranks. There are 33
Police Officers or (60%) with the rank of patrolman and 12 Police Officers or (26%) are
Police Senior Sergeant and 7 Police Officer or (14%) are Police Lieutenants. This implies
that majority of the Police Officers are within the rank of Patrolman. On the other hand,
Police Officers with the rank of Police Lieutenant has the lowest frequency of 7 or (14 %)
of the 50 respondents, which implies that among the other ranks Police Lieutenant has the
Patrolman 30 60%
Total 50 100%
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DUTIES
Table 2 shows the frequency of Police Officers in terms of duties. There are 10
respondents consisting of (20%) are in the operation, 10 Police Officers or (20%) are
Officers or (20%) assigned to Police Relation and 10 Police Officers or (20%) are
assigned to Women and Children Protection Desk. This implies that the Police Officers
who are assigned in different duties and responsibilities have the same number of work
force. In addition, the Police Officers are disseminated thoroughly as shown in table
below that they have equal number of frequencies in terms of their duties.
Operation 10 20%
Investigation 10 20%
Traffic 10 20%
WCPD 10 20%
Total 50 100
Problem No.2: What are effects of COVID – 19 Pandemic to the police officers as
2.1 Health
2.2 Performance
2.3 Family
26
AVERAGE
3.45 OFTEN
WEIGHTED MEAN
HEALTH
The table 3 shows that the respondents believed that the long term hours of exposure
in the community is more likely to have a higher risk to virus having a weighted mean of
4.68. With this results the respondents believed that the long hours of exposure in the
the respondents also believed that overstretched of working hours leads to body fatigue
having a weighted mean of 3.84. On the other hand, this implies that the respondents
experienced body fatigue due to their extended hours of working. However, the
respondents also believed that they are not prone to depression and stress that lead to
suicidal ideation with a weighted mean of 1.64 which implies that respondents never
thought of suicidal tendencies in a sense that they are well- oriented regarding their work
as well as to their duties and responsibilities as police officers. Hence, the result shows
that the Health got a total weighted mean of 3.45 with a description of often, this implies
that Police Officers were less concerned about their health. Police officers and staff are
often directly or indirectly involved in the pandemic response and have thus higher risk of
getting infected by the virus. Additionally, the result implies that the health of the police
paramedical staff, and law enforcement individuals, have faced substantial health risks,
psychological distress, and work stress (Kang et al., 2020; Lu et al., 2020). Due to the
rapid spread of the COVID-19, the Chinese government took varying levels of restrictive
measures (travel ban, 14-day quarantine, and lockdown), which increased police officers’
burden to enforce the restrictions (Graham-Harrison and Kuo, 2020; Wang D. et al.,
2020). The heavy workload and life-threatening circumstances raise work stress in the
front-line workforce (Ivana et al., 2017). Since law enforcement is “inherently close-
contact work with strangers and some of the most marginalized people,” police officers
are on the front lines when dealing with pandemics and enforcing response measures,
while simultaneously being at a greater risk of exposure and infection (Poston 2020).
28
PERFORMANCE
The table 4 shows the effects of Coronavirus outbreak to Police Officers in terms
of Performance. The result shows that the Police Officer believed that wearing (PPE’s)
while on duty limits the mobility in work with a weighted mean of 4.70, which implies
that Police Officers are having a hard time in performing their duties because wearing
29
(PPE’s) limits their movement and flexibility at work. In addition, Covid-19 pandemic
brings extra burden to the Police Authorities with a weighted mean of 4.70, which implies
that the respondents believed that COVID-19 pandemic causes the police officers to do
multiple works people aside from performing their duties. On the other hand, the
respondents also believed that identifying and arresting people involved in crimes are
made difficult and uneasy with a weighted mean of 4.48. This result implies that police
officers experienced difficulties in finding and arresting criminals who are involved in
crimes considering the restrictions and regulations implemented. The result shows that the
performance got a total weighted mean of 4.60 with a description of always, this implies
that most of the Police Officers performance has been affected by the pandemic.
Additionally, the respondents strongly believed that COVID-19 has a huge effect to their
performance in a way that it limits the mobility of their work. The enforcement of laws
and regulations with regards in identifying and arresting criminals are confined due to
lockdowns and travel bans which is made more uneasy for the police officers in executing
these considerable changes, the pandemic has significantly impacted law enforcement
agencies and their operations. Eighty-three percent of police noted they reduced public
access to their facilities. A similar percentage lowered their use of community policing
activities. Accordingly, community policing services were lessened by over 80% of the
departments surveyed.
30
demonstrated by large disparities between reported crimes and crime victim surveys ‒ the
importance of community policing to capture this gap is crucial. Against this backdrop,
access to police departments has declined so that physical accessibility and connection by
the public to police have dropped. Suspension of citizen ride-along and citizen academies,
citizen cohesion. Leveraging virtual forums, conference calls and outreach to community
leaders in the non-physical world can bridge the limitations on street-level, (physical)
Experienced anxiety as to
the health status of all
2.62 SELDOM
family members.
Anxious about the health
status of my family. 3.61 OFTEN
AVERAGE
3.77 OFTEN
WEIGHTED MEAN
FAMILY
31
The table 5 shows the effects of Coronavirus outbreak to Police Officers in terms
of Family. The respondents of the study revealed that COVID-19 pandemic hinders
physical interaction with a weighted mean of 4.46. With this result, the respondents
believed that COVID-19 pandemic prevents them to have physical interaction with their
families most specifically after work without proper sanitation. On the other hand, Police
Officers cancel and limit family affairs in order to avoid the risk of infection with a
weighted mean of 4.10. This result implies that the respondents often cancel and limits
family meetings for the purpose of preventing the virus to spread throughout the family.
Often times the respondents are experiencing anxiety as to the health status of all
family members with a weighted mean of 2.62. This result indicates that the respondents
are frequently worried about the health and safety of their family members in getting
infected by the virus. The result shows that the effects of COVID-19 pandemic in terms
of family got a total weighted mean of 4.07 with a description of always. Therefore, this
results implies that covid-19 pandemic affected the family relationship of the police
officers while performing their respective jurisdictions as front liners. Furthermore, the
respondents also believed that COVID-19 pandemic hinders physical interaction and
In a study conducted by Laufs and Waseem, As such, not only are officers prone
to physical and personal risks such as the risk of infection, loss of property and family
members but also acute stress, that may be exacerbated by their extended work hours with
an increased workload In addition, officers may face a lack of rest, resources and
provisions distance from their families and social networks, depriving them of social
support as well as duress and ‘occupational stress overload’ as expectations increase the
32
fact that police officers’ daily interactions with the public can put them at risk of exposure
to COVID-19, and in turn, may further expose their loved ones to the virus, also adds
stress. In some cases, they may be returning home to family members with compromised
Pandemic to the police force when respondents grouped according to their profile?
RANKS
Squares Square Ho
Total 19.334 79
the effects of Coronavirus outbreak to Police Officers. It led the researchers to reject the
null hypothesis as results showed that the F-value of the said test was 4.407, and has a
significant value less than 0.05, indicating that there is a significant difference of the
while high levels of support, a sense of belonging, fair and visible leadership and an
al., 2017; Demou et al., 2020; Jackman et al., 2020; Ordon et al., 2019), the impact of
rapid change, not feeling valued, heavy workloads and the negative characteristics of
organisational cultures conversely had an adverse impact upon well-being (Demou et al.,
2020; Hesketh et al., 2017; Purba and Demou, 2019). There is also evidence to suggest
that role and rank can be a determinant of well-being with those in higher ranks, police
staff and those in force command or operational support (firearms and public order) all
displaying higher levels of well-being than other roles and ranks (Demou et al., 2020;
DUTIES
Squares Square Ho
Total 19.334 79
Chi-Square was used to test the significant difference between duties towards the
effects of Coronavirus outbreak to Police Officers. It led the researchers to reject the null
hypothesis as results showed that the F-value of the said test was 17.895, and has a
significant value lesser than 0.05, indicating that there is a significant difference of duties
The results coincide with the findings of the study conducted by Huang and Chan,
the normal days during the COIVD-19 outbreak. We group participants by work time:
below 8 h/day (work hours ≤ 8), 8–11 h/day (8 < work hour as indicated in Table 5, the
Chi-Square showed that the differences in health risk perception (F = 39.15, p < 0.01),
work stress (F = 166.99, p < 0.01), and psychological distress (F = 153.22, p < 0.01)
among different groups were significant. We ranked the health risk perception score,
work stress score, and psychological distress score of each group as follows: above 14,
11–14, 8–11, and below 8 h. The result indicated that police officers who worked longer
reported high health risk perception, work stress, and psychological distress.
CHAPTER V
STUDY
This chapter summarizes the findings of this study. The summary is divided into
conclusions based on the same objectives. School Administration and other stake holders.
Lastly, the chapter makes recommendations of areas that need further research.
Findings:
traffic police rotation and WCPD in terms of their duties and responsibilities.
3. In terms of health, the long hours of exposure in the community is more likely to
have a higher risk of SARS CoV2 ( Covid 19) has the highest weighted mean of
4.7.
equipment (PPE) while on duty limits the mobility of work and the COVID 19
brings extra burden to the police authorities has the highest weighted mean of 4.70
5. Regarding the family COVID 19 pandemic hinders physical interaction with the
Conclusion
Along the conduct of the study, the researchers found out that police officers had
faced a multitude of challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of the respondents
were with the rank of patrolman which indicated that they were the most affected
respondents among the highest ranks. The respondents have different designated areas
such as operation, investigation, traffic, police relation and WCPD according to their
In terms of health, they often experience the risks and effects caused by COVID-
19. It also revealed that long hours of exposure in the community have higher risk of
COVID-19. This infers that the police officers were challenge in their day-to-day duties
that can increase the risk of their health. With regards to their performance, the study
showed that COVID-19 had always inhibited them to perform with full capacity due to
the usage of proper protective equipment (PPE) while on duty because it limits the
mobility of work, symptoms experienced which also hindered police officers to do their
work, and the limitations present today in law enforcement such as health protocols since
it needed to be strictly followed to avoid transmission of the virus. The result also showed
that the relationship with the police officers with their families was often affected with the
pandemic. It hindered physical interaction with their families and loved ones.
Additionally, the result indicated that COVID-19 pandemic limits family recreation and it
the police force according to their ranks, it implies that the COVID-19 pandemic will
depend on the rank classification or status of the members of the PNP. Furthermore, the
effects of COVID19 pandemic to the police force will also depend according to their
duties and responsibilities. The results suggest that police officers and staff are often
directly or indirectly involved in the pandemic response and thus have a higher risk of
getting infected.
Recommendations:
1. The Philippine National Police (PNP) must coordinate with the Department of
Health to ensure the health and safety of the police officers from getting
funds in providing all the essential requirements needed by the Police Officers.
(DOH) for more assistance in order for them to perform their duties and
Luna, A. M., Brito, C. S., & Sanberg, E. A. (2007). Police planning for an influenza
pandemic: case studies and recommendations from the field.
Marquart, J. W., Merianos, D. E., Cuvelier, S. J., Carroll, L. (1996). Thinking about the
relationship between health dynamics in the free community and the prison. Crime &
Delinquency, 42, 331–360.
Margolin, J. (2020, March 23). White supremacists encouraging their members to spread
coronavirus to cops, Jews, FBI says.
Patel A, Jernigan DB. Initial Public Health Response and Interim Clinical Guidance for
the 2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak — United States, December 31, 2019–February 4,
2020.
Patag, Kristine Joy (March 25, 2020). "During state of emergency, 'Bayanihan' Act allows
imprisonment for 'false information'". The Philippine Star. Retrieved June 6, 2020.
Taylor, S. (2019). The psychology of pandemics: Preparing for the next global outbreak
of infectious disease. Cambridge, England: Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
Wilder-Smith A, Freedman DO. Isolation, quarantine, social distancing and community
containment: Pivotal role for old-style public health measures in the novel coronavirus
(2019-nCoV) outbreak. Journal of Travel Medicine. 2020.
Waldrop, T. (2020, April 1). Coronavirus has police everywhere scrambling to respond as
their forces are reduced.
Wilder-Smith, A., & Freedman, D. O. (2020). Isolation, quarantine, social distancing and
community containment: Pivotal role for old-style public health measures in the novel
coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
York, J.A. (2020, April 4). Law enforcement lays out coronavirus-crackdown across
Santa Cruz County. Santa Cruz.
37
Appendix A
The Questionnaire
Dear Respondents
Greetings,
19 Pandemic on the Police Force as Front Liners”. The undersigned realize this
research study will not materialize without your full support; hence, we humbly
solicit your help and cooperation by answering this questionnaire very honestly.
Rest assured your answers will be treated with outmost confidentiality and
secrecy.
highly appreciated.
THE RESEARCHERS
40
Name: __________________________________________
Legend:
HEALTH 1 2 3 4 5
Long hours exposure in the community is more likely to have a
higher risk of SARS-CoV2 (COVID19).
Overstreched working hourss leads to body fatique.
Physically stressful work environment, filled with danger,
ambiguity in work encounters, and higher exposure to SARS-
CoV2 infection.
41
PERFORMANCE
Wearing proper protective equipment (PPE's) while on duty
limits the mobility in work.
Philosophy
Vision
Atty. Rick Angelo C. Escorpizo
Research Adviser
A dynamic and diverse College of Criminal Justice Education
internationally recognized
university. Gen. Luna Street, Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte
Mission
Dear Sir,
Jose Rizal Memorial State
University pledges itself to
deliver effective and efficient Greetings!
services along instruction,
research, extension and
production. The undersigned researchers are 4th year BS Criminology students
It commits to provide of Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Dipolog Campus
advanced
technical
professional,
and
undertaking a research entitled “Effect of Covid-19 Pandemic on
technopreneurial training with the Police Force as Fontliners”.
the aim of producing highly
competent, innovative and
self-renewed individuals. With your expertise, we are asking your permission to validate the
attached self-made questionnaire for the research study.
Quality Policy Statement
Jose Rizal Memorial Hoping for your positive response.
State University, a believer of
holistic development,
excellence and quality Thank you and more power
service, provides quality
training and development to
students. It shall commit to Respectfully yours,
provide adequate, suitable
and relevant resources and
services with continuing
quality management system Kervie Campomanes
for clients and customers’ Junilyn Danlas
satisfaction thru an efficient
and effective quality system Richard Lacay
which conforms to national Rosemarie Magsayo
and international statutory
and regulatory requirements.
Timothy Villanos
43
Appendix C
The Respondents
45
46
Appendix D
Appendix E
CURRICULUM VITAE
Personal Identification
Name : Campomanes, Kervie Alumbre
Birthdate : May 12 1999
Age : 22
Height : 5’6
Weight : 54 kgs
Address : Manawan Jose Dalman Zamboanga
del Norte
Contact Information:
Email Address : kerviecampomanes@gmail.com
Contact Number : 09672408119
Additional Personal Identification:
Father’s Name : Benjie T. Campomanes
Occupation : Construction worker
Mother’s name : Yvonne A. Campomanes
Occupation : Housewife
Education Background
College: Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Dipolog Campus
Turno, Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte
Personal Identification
Name : Danlas, Junilyn Antibo
Birthdate : November 25, 1998
Age : 23
Height : 5’6
Weight : 49 kgs
Address : Brgy, Ipilan Salug Zamboanga del
Norte
Contact Information:
Email Address : Danlasange38@gmail.com
Contact Number : 09161645765
Additional Personal Identification:
Father’s Name : Danilo O. Danlas
Occupation : Farmer
Mother’s name : Elviera A. Danlas
Occupation : Housewife
Education Background
College: Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Dipolog Campus
Turno, Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte
Personal Identification
Name : Lacay, Richard Saromines
Birthdate : September 14, 1999
Age : 22
Height : 5’7
Weight : 80
Address : Purok Santan Turno Dipolog
Contact Information:
Email Address : lacayr9@gmail.com
Contact Number : 09073191449
Additional Personal Identification:
Father’s Name : Federico A. Lacay
Occupation : Government Employee
Mother’s name : Charline S. Lacay
Occupation : Housewife
Education Background
College: Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Dipolog Campus
Turno, Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte
High School: Zamboanga Del Norte National High School (Turno Campus
Personal Identification
Name : Magsayo, Rosemarie Etol
Birthdate : March 15 , 2000
Age : 21
Height : 5’6
Weight : 53 kgs
Address : El Paraiso, La Libertad Zamboanga Del Norte
Contact Information:
Email Address : rosemariemagsayo1057@gmail.com
Contact Number : 09201536522
Additional Personal Identification:
Father’s Name : Rolando H. Magsayo Sr.
Occupation : Farmer
Mother’s name : Merlina E. Magsayo
Occupation : Housewife
Education Background
College: Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Dipolog Campus
Turno, Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte
Personal Information
Name : Villanos, Timothy E.
Birthdate : August 15, 1999
Age : 21
Height : 5’6
Weight : 64 kg
Address : Gomez Street Biasong Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte
Contact Information
Email Address : villanostimothy5@gmail.com
Contact Number : 09271938182
Additional Personal Identification
Father’s Name : Resalio M. Villanos
Occupation : Government Employee
Mother’s Name : Edwina E. Villanos
Occupation : Housewife
Educational Background
College : Jose Rizal Memorial State University, Dipolog Campus
Turno, Dipolog City Zamboanga Del Norte
High School : Zamboanga Del Norte National High School, Turno Campus
Dipolog City, Zamboanga Del Norte