PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

Prepared by: Sean Francis C. San Diego

Sociology

o Is the study of human social relationships and institutions.

o It is diverse in nature, ranging from crime to religion, from the family to the state, from the divisions of race and
social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture, and from social stability to radical change in whole
societies.

Society

o An organized group of persons associated together for religious, benevolent, cultural, scientific, political, patriotic,
or other purposes.

Social Control

o It refers to the manner of discipline the society imposes upon its members.

o This is intended to limit behaviors and lays the ground rules for what is considered as acceptable practices in the
society.

 Informal Restriction – done through generally accepted expectation, values, ethics, mores and folkways.

 Formal Restriction – achieved through the imposition of the law and other legal proceedings.

Culture

o It refers to the society’s way of life. It includes the beliefs, practices, mores, customs, taboos, etc.

o Culture stands as a unique identity of the society.

Cultural Component

o Material Culture are the tangible objects that people make and use which is unique and identifiable to their
specific culture.

o Non-Material Culture are the ideas surrounding a culture and unique to their own.

 Norms are social expectations which shapes the rules enforced in the cultural group.

 Folks refers to ethnic customs governing members conduct.

 Mores refers to a type of folkways that is perceived to be valuable in shaping the groups morality and may be
used in determining the morality of an act as to render judgement.
 Laws refers to formal legal structure of norms which is usually written and formulated by people with legal
authority that governs the entire social group. A law has a more pronounced, clear and defined boundaries of
scope and application as compared to mores.
o Values refers to anything the society perceive to be important.
o Beliefs refers to conviction of certain matters affecting their world.

Cultural Transmission

o Refers to a way of disseminating culture to other people or to the next generation.

 Enculturation refers to the transmission of culture from one generation to the next. Usually by imbibing or
absorbing a society’s way of life while living within that culture as a successor of the passing generation.

 Acculturation refers to cultural transmission where it is transferred to other people by social

communication, interaction, or by reading articles about the culture.

Characteristics of Culture

o It can be learned hence there is Transmission.

o It is a communion of beliefs and practices prevailing in the whole group.

o It is composed of people with unique individualities but function collectively.

o It adapts to preserve stability and survivability of social identity.

o It integrates experiences, rules, norms, mores and resources to function as a collective whole.
Ethics

o The word "ethics" is derived from the Greek word ethos (character), and from the Latin word mores (customs).
Together, they combine to define how individuals choose to interact with one another.

o In philosophy, ethics defines what is good for the individual and for society and establishes the nature of duties
that people owe themselves and one another.

o Is a practical science of the morality of human conduct.

Nature and Concepts of Ethics

o It is a division of Philosophy under the Normative Philosophy

 Philosophy can be divided into four disciplines:

 Descriptive or Speculative

 Normative

 Practical

 Critical

 Ethics is more of a Normative Philosophy since it is more concerned on the following:

 What is Good or Bad?

 What is Right Action or Wrong Action?

o It is a Practical Science

 Ethics is also a science for it is the result of series of studies, a systematized body of data reflected upon
truth in relation to action.

 Towards this discovery of truth, set of implied rules or directions for thought or action are established this
makes the ethics more of a practical science.

o It focuses on Human Acts

 HUMAN ACTS are the material object of the study of ethics.

 It shall mean only those acts which are determined by the free will.

 It is characterized as acts done KNOWINGLY, DELIBERATELY and FREELY.

ELEMENTS OF HUMAN ACTS:

1. KNOWINGLY – when the person fully understands what he is doing and has the ability to appreciate
the consequences of his actions.
2. DELIBERATELY – when the person did his actions intentionally.
3. FREELY – when the person performed his actions voluntarily.

 Acts which are done by man but without the use of the power of free choice are ACT OF MAN.

 Therefore, acts of man are not human acts.

o It is the science of the Morality of Human Acts

 Ethics does not end with the study of Human Acts.

 If Human Act is the material object of the study of ethics, its formal object is the rectitude (right morality) of
human acts.

 Human Acts may either be in agreement or disagreement with the dictates of reason.

 Ethics determine what it must be to stand in harmony with the dictates of reason.

 Ethics deals with the morality of human conducts it is what makes us humans as differentiated from other
living creatures in their ways of living.

Division of Ethics

o General Ethics presents the general principles of morality of human acts.

o Special Ethics provides for the application of the principles of general ethics to a particular department of human
activity, individual or social entity.

Professional Ethics
  A set of moral code to which every profession must follow.
 It guides the actuations of the professional in the practice of his profession.

Examples:

 Medical Ethics

 Legal Ethics

 Code of Ethics of Teachers

 Code of Ethics of Public Officials

 Business Ethics

 Police Ethics

Human Acts

o An act which proceeds from the DELIBERATE FREEWILL OF MAN.

o In wide sense, it means any sort of activity, internal or external, physical or spiritual, performed by human being.

o However, as used in this text, it shall be limited to those human acts which are proper to man as man.

Classification of Human Acts

Human Acts may be classified either in relation to the WILL or in relation to the REASON:

o Human Acts in relation to the WILL:

 Elicited Acts – human acts that are complete or adequate cause.
• They begin and perfected in the human will itself such as wish, intention, consent, election and
others.

Example: When a student decided to go to work with his assignment before going to plays with his friends, his
intention is a simple will-act.

 Commanded Acts – done in relation to the dictates of reason.

• They begin in the will but are perfected by other faculties under the control of the will.

Example: When a student decided to work first with assignments before playing with his friends, gets his book and
notebooks and works with his assignment is an example of a commanded act.

o Human Acts in relation to REASON:

 Morality

• The quality which makes an act good or evil, right or wrong.

1. Moral – good, right

2. Immoral – bad, wrong
3. Amoral – neither good nor bad
 Human Acts

• Actions that are done knowingly, deliberately and freely.

Bases of Morality

o Social Norms – unwritten standard of acceptable behavior in society.

o Customs – usage or practice common to many or to a particular place or class or habitual with an individual
o Tradition – the handling down from generation to generation of opinions and practices.
o Culture – the society’s way of life. It includes their beliefs, practices, mores, customs, taboos etc. It stands as a
unique identity of the society.

o Laws of Society

 Written rules of behavior

 Laws created by men to maintain harmony and order

Example: Philippine Criminal Law, Special Penal Law, and Ordinance.

o Religion

 A system of beliefs and practices based on faith and truths revealed to man by God.
  There are a lot of religions in each and every society.

Example: Roman Catholic, Iglesia ni Cristo, Born Again, etc.

o Conscience

 The practical judgement of reason telling us what should be done and what should be avoided.

 Reflection in one’s character.

Character

o It refers to the traits of a person shown through his thoughts, actions, values and virtues.

o “Character is what you do when nobody’s looking.” – anonymous

Values

o Anything that a person considers important, such as ideas or experiences.

o These are one’s beliefs, principles, that are important, cherished, upheld and defended.

o It affects and influences how one thinks and feels, what one perceives, shape one’s goals, objectives and
aspirations.

o It influences how a person resolves conflicts.

o It dictates a person’s lifestyle and life choices and decisions.

KINDS OF VALUES

1. BIOLOGICAL VALUES – those that are necessary for survival, such as food, shelter, clothing, sex, water, sleep.
2. PSYCHOLOGICAL VALUES – those that are necessary for emotional fulfillment of man, such as relationships,
companionship, family, friendship, love.
3. INTELLECTUAL VALUES – those that are necessary for the intellectual fulfillment of man, such as achievements,
career, success.
4. MORAL VALUES – those that are necessary for the spiritual fulfillment of man.

Virtues

o The habit of doing what is good or right.

o The opposite of vice.

Vice

 The habit of doing wrong.

 Refers to habitual use and/or dependency to certain patterns of actions or use of comfortable or
pleasurable substances such as smoking, gambling, drug abuse, prostitution, etc.

Four Moral/Cardinal Virtues

o PRUDENCE

 It is the ability to govern and discipline oneself by means of reason and sound judgement.
 The virtue that attracts the intellect to choose the most effective means for accomplishing what is morally
good and avoiding what is evil.

o JUSTICE

 The second cardinal virtue is concerned with the will.

 It is the constant and permanent determination to give everyone his or her rightful due.
 The virtue that inclines the will to give to each what is due to him
 It regulates a person’s wants; also means self-control.

NATURE OF JUSTICE

 “To render to each his due.”

 “Treat equals equally and unequal unequally in proportion to their inequality.”

THREE DIMENSIONS OF BASIC JUSTICE

o Commutative Justice

 It regulates those actions that involve the rights that exist between individuals.
  It demands for respect for the equal human dignity of all persons in economic transactions, contracts or
premises.
 It provides fairness in all agreements and exchanges between individuals.

EXAMPLE:

A worker honoring his commitment to his bosses.

o Distributive Justice

 It regulates those actions involving the rights of an individual that he or she may claim from society.
 It suggests that society has a duty to the citizen or individual in serious need and the citizen or individuals
have duties to serious in need.
 It concerns to the fair allotment of resources.

EXAMPLE:

During the pandemic crisis, the government has the duty to help low-class income Filipinos.

o Legal Justice

 It regulates those actions which society may justly require of the individual for the common good.

 According to the legal justice, the State may enforce laws and performs such if it is for the welfare of the
citizenry.

 Laws, formulated and created, for the protection of the people.

EXAMPLE:

The government has the obligation to formulate and promulgate laws for the maintenance of peace and order
and protection of life and property.

o FORTITUDE

 It allows us to overcome fear and to remain steady in our will in the face of obstacles, but it is always
reasoned and reasonable.
 It is the courage to endure without yielding; the virtue that incites courage; the virtue that gives person
strength of the will.

EXAMPLES

• PATIENCE – it is the ability to be calm in enduring situations.

• PERSEVERANCE – it is the ability to go on despite obstacles.

• ENDURANCE – it is the ability to last.

o TEMPERANCE

 It is the restraint of our desires or passions. Food, drink and sex are all necessary for our survival, individually
and as a species; yet a disordered desire for any of these goods can have disastrous consequences, physical
and moral. (St. Thomas Aquinas)
 It is the ability to moderate one’s instincts and emotions also means self-control.

Human Rights

o Basis of BILL OF RIGHTS

o Rights pertaining to the rights of man; rights inherent to man by virtue of being a human being.

o Are the supreme, inherent and inalienable rights to life, dignity and to self-development.

 Supreme Rights – highest form of rights.

 Inherent Rights – rights attached to men as human.
 Inalienable Rights – rights cannot be transferred, cannot be borrowed and cannot be taken away.

Basic Human Rights

o Right to Life

EXCEPTIONS:

 Self Defense

 Death under Exceptional Circumstances

  Death Penalty

o Right to Liberty

EXCEPTIONS:

 For reasons of public health and public safety

 Penalty for commission of a crime

 Circumstances of warrantless arrest

o Right to Property

EXCEPTIONS:

 Circumstances of warrantless search by virtue of court order.

Bill of Rights

o A list of individual liberties, freedom and rights which are guaranteed and protected under ARTICLE III of the 1987
Philippine Constitution.

o Protection of individuals against abuses of the State.

o Protection of the rights of an accused.

Police Ethics

o A practical science that treats the principles of human morality and duty as applied to law enforcement.

PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

Foundations of PNP Ethical Doctrine

o Divine and Moral Percepta

o Sec. 1 Art. XI, 1987 Philippine Constitution – “Public Office is a Public Trust…”

o Art. 203-245, Title VII – Crimes committed by Public Officers of the RPC

o RA 6713 – Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees

o RA 3019 – Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act

o RA 6975 – The DILG Act of 1990

o The Original Police Manual

o RA 7080 – Anti-Plunder Act

o RA 9485 – Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007

o NAPOLCOM Resolution No. 92-4 – approving the draft of PNP COPCES

o Philippine National Police Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Standards

Brief Historical Background

o According to Section 37 of Republic Act 6975, “There shall be established a performance evaluation system
which shall be administered in accordance with the rules, regulation and standards, and a CODE OF CONDUCT
promulgated by the Commission for member of the Philippine National Police…”

o NAPOLCOM Resolution No. 92-4

 The resolution issued by the NAPOLCOM approving the draft of the PNP Code of Conduct and Ethical
Standards by the PNP.

 Approved on 12 March 1992.

Purposes of the Code

o To foster individual efficiency, behavioral discipline and organizational effectiveness, as well as respect for
constitutional and human rights of citizens, democratic principles and ideals, and the supremacy of civilian
authority over the military;

o To set the moral tone and norms of Professional Conduct in the Police service;
 o To provide moral and ethical guidance to all PNP members; and

o To enlighten members of the Police service of what behavior is really acceptable – to define what is permitted and
what is prohibited.

Laws relating to the PNP COPCES

o Republic Act 3019 – the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

o Republic Act 6713 – Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

o Republic Act 7080 – Anti-Plunder Act.

o People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB) Rules and Regulations.

Definition of Terms

o NEGLECT OF DUTY OR NON FEASANCE

 The omission or refusal, without sufficient excuse, to perform an act or duty, which it was the peace
officer’s legal obligation to perform.

 It implies a duty as well as its breach and the fact can never be found in the absence of duty.

Example: A Police Officer who has a duty to serve and protect the members of the society, refuses to help a
woman who is being robbed by a gang.

o IRREGULARITIES IN THE PERFORMANCE OF DUTY OR MISFEASANCE

 The improper performance of some act which might lawfully be done.

Example: Improperly searching a home without securing a search warrant.

o MISCONDUCT OR MALFEASANCE

 The doing, either through ignorance, inattention or malice, of that which the officer had no legal rights to
at all, as where he acts without any authority whatsoever, or exceeds, ignores or abuses his powers.

 Generally, means wrongful, improper or unlawful conduct, motivated by premeditated, obstinate or

intentional purpose.

 Usually refers to transgression of some established and definite rule of action.

Example: A Police Officer is accepting bribes to destroy an evidence that would incriminate the briber.

o INCOMPETENCY

 Lack of adequate ability and fitness for the satisfactory performance of Police duties.

 Has reference to any physical, moral or intellectual quality, the lack of which substantially incapacitates
one to perform his duties.

Example: A Police Officer suffered blindness that will result to being an incompetent police officer.

o OPPRESSION

 An act of cruelty, severity, unlawful exaction, domination or excessive use of authority.

o DISLOYALTY TO THE GOVERNMENT

 Consist of abandonment or renunciation of one’s loyalty to the Government of the Philippines, or

advocating the overthrow of the Government.

o VIOLATION OF LAW

 Presupposes conviction in court of any crime or offense penalized under the Revised Penal Code or any
special law or ordinance.

o GOVERNMENT

 It includes the national government, the local governments, the government-owned and controlled
corporations, and all other instrumentalities or agencies of the Republic of the Philippines.

o PUBLIC OFFICER
  Includes elective and appointive officials and employees, permanent or temporary, whether in the
classified or unclassified or exempt service receiving compensation, from the Government.

o GRAFT

 The acquisition of gain or advantage by dishonest, unfair or sordid means, especially through the abuse
one’s position or influence in Politics or Government.

o CORRUPTION

 An act done with intent to give some advantage inconsistent with official duty and the rights of others.

 The state of making something or someone other than what is ideal.

o BRIBERY

 The act of receiving gifts or presents or accepting offers and/or promises in exchange of committing a
crime that relates to the exercise of the office which with the public officer discharges.

o DISHONESTY

 Concealment or distortion of truth in a matter of fact relevant to one’s office or connected with the
performance of his duties.

o COMMAND

 The authority of person lawfully exercises over subordinates by virtue of rank or assignment or position.

o RESPONSIBILITY

 The obligation to perform one’s duties and functions and his accountability for his actions.

o COMMAND RESPONSIBILITY

 The doctrine that imposes commensurate accountability to one who is vested with authority to exercise
management and/or leadership functions.

Law Enforcement Code of Ethics

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

o I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all; maintain courageous in the face of danger, scorn or
ridicule; develop self-restraint and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others. Honest in our thought and deed
in both my personal and official life, I will be exemplary in obeying the laws of the land and regulations of my
organization. Whatever I see or hear of a confidential in 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.

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

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

o I know that I alone am responsible for my own standard of professional performance and will take every
reasonable opportunity to enhance and improve my level of knowledge and competence. I will constantly strive to
achieve these objectives and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession… law enforcement.

Canons of Police Ethics

o PRIMORDIAL POLICE RESPONSIBILITY

 The primary responsibility of the Police is CRIME PREVENTION.

o LIMITATION OF POLICE AUTHORITY

 Laws set limits to the authority of the police in the performance of their functions.

 Police Officers are not exempted from obeying the law they are enforcing.

o KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAW AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

  Police Officers must know and understand the laws they are enforcing.

 They must fully understand their duties and responsibilities as Police Officer.

 Police Officers must know the relationship of the PNP with other law enforcement agencies.

o USE OF PROPER MEANS TO OBTAIN PROPER ENDS

 Police Officers must use lawful methods in performing their official duties and functions.

MEANS – ways; manner

ENDS – goals; objectives

o COOPERATION WITH PUBLIC OFFICIALS

 Police Officers must recognize other public officials in order to function efficiently for the welfare of the
community.

o PROPER CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOR

 Police Officers must careful with what they say and what they do at all times, whether in their personal
lives or official capacity.

o CONDUCT TOWARDS THE COMMUNITY

 Police Officers must always remember that they serve the community. Therefore, they shall manifest
proper conduct towards the citizens.

o CONDUCT IN ARRESTING LAW VIOLATORS

 Police Officers must always abide by the rules and prescribed procedures in making lawful arrests.

o FIRMNESS IN REFUSING GIFTS OR FAVORS

 Police Officers must NEVER ASK for, and NEVER ACCEPT, gifts or favors in exchange for their help or
assistance to avoid misinterpretation.

o IMPARTIAL PRESENTATION OF EVIDENCE

 Police Officers must present all evidence, whether the evidence proves the innocence or guilt of the
suspect.

IMPARTIAL – FAIR

o ATTITUDE TOWARDS POLICE PROFESSION

 Police Officers must have a high regard and respect for the Police Profession.

 Police Officers must strive to improve their knowledge and skill in order to serve the community the best
possible way they can.

Professional Police Principles

o PREVENTION OF CRIME AND DISORDER

 It is the primordial responsibility of the Police.

 It is the primary objective of the Police Organization.

o COOPERATION OF THE COMMUNITY

 The ability of the Police to perform their duty is dependent upon community support.

 The Police must secure the respect and trust of the community in order to gain their support.

o UNREASONABLE FORCE REDUCES COMMUNITY COOPERATION

 Police Officers must not abuse their authority because it affects the attitude and opinions of the
community towards them, which in return affects their desire to cooperate.

o USE OF REASONABLE FORCE WHEN PERSUASION IS NOT SUFFICIENT

 Police Officers are allowed to use force when dialogue is no longer effective, but the kind or degree of
force must be REASONABLE.

o IMPARTIAL ENFORCEMENT OF LAWS

  Police Officers must enforce the law equally to all persons, without regard to social status.

 The law should apply to all.

o POLICE SHOULD NOT USURP JUDICIAL POWER

 Police Officers have no authority to decide if the suspect is guilty or not, and cannot impose the penalty
that they want.

USURP – take on, assume

JUDICIAL POWER – The authority to judge and impose penalty

o REDUCTION OF CRIME AND DISORDER

 The test of Police efficiency is the reduction of crime and disorder until totally eradicated, not by evidence
of Police presence and action in dealing with the community.

o RULES OF ENGAGEMENT IMPARTIALLY OBSERVED

 Police Officers must always abide by the prescribed procedures in conducting police operations.

o POLICE DISCRETION

 The act or the liberty to decide according to the principles of justice and the police officer’s idea of what is
right and proper under the circumstances.

 Wise judgement under circumstances.

o ABUSE OF DISCRETION

 The use of discretion in such a way as to deprive a person of his right.

 Police Officers must NEVER ABUSE POLICE DISCRETION granted to them.

The PNP Core Values

The police service is a noble profession which demands from its members specialized knowledge and skills, as well
as high standards of ethics and morality. Hence, the members of the PNP must adhere to and internalize the enduring
core values of:

o LOVE OF GOD

o RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY

o SELFLESS LOVE AND SERVICE TO PEOPLE

o SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE AND RESPECT FOR WOMEN

o RESPONSIBLE DOMINION AND STEWARDSHIP OVER

o MATERIAL THINGS

o TRUTHFULNESS

The Police Officer’s Creed

o I believe in God, The Supreme Being, The Great Provider, and The Creator of all men and everything dear to me.
In return, I can do no less than love Him above all obeying His word, seek His guidance in the performance of my
sworn duties and honor Him at all times.

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

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

o I believe in the sanctity of marriage and family life. I shall set the example of decency and morality, shall have high
regard for family life and value of marital fidelity.

o I believe in the responsible dominion and stewardship over material things. I shall inhibit myself from
extravagance and ostentatious display of material things. I shall help protect the environment and conserve nature
to maintain ecological balance.

o I believe in the wisdom of truthfulness. I must be trustworthy and I shall uphold the truth at all times.
PNP Stand on Basic Issues

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

o PNP Image

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

 Honor

 Integrity

 Valor

 Justice

 Honesty

 Humility

 Charity

 Loyalty to Service

o Career Management, the Key to Professionalism

 The PNP recognizes the need to have proper and strict policies regarding recruitment, training,
assignment, promotion, awards, discipline and retirement to ensure sound administration and to look after
the welfare of its members.

o Police Management Leadership

 The effectiveness of law enforcement is reflective of the managerial capabilities and competent
leadership of the men and women who run the PNP organization.

o Equality in the Service

 All Police Officers shall have equal opportunities for improvement and career advancement based on
merit.

o Delicadeza

 Sense of pride and self-worth

 Police Officers must be able to sacrifice self-interest in the name of duty.

 Police Officers must not do anything that would bring dishonor to himself and to the PNP organization
itself.

o Police Lifestyle

 Police Officers must live a simple, yet credible and dignified life, free from greed, corruption and
exploitation.

 Police Officers must set a good example.

o Political Patronage

 Police Officers must NEVER ASK for recommendations from Public Officials in matters pertaining to
promotion, assignment, awards and others.

Police Professional Conduct

o Commitment to Democracy

 Police Officers must never forget that they are public servants and they must at all times uphold the
Constitution and be loyal to the country, the people and the PNP Organization.

o Commitment to Public Interest

Public Interest

 Police Officers must respect the fact that their resources are funded by taxpayers’ money and should
therefore used wisely and economically to avoid wastage of public funds.
  Police Officers must always uphold public interest over and above personal interests.

 For the good of the people or community.

o Non-Partisanship

 Police Officers must not be identified with any particular political party or figure.

 “They must extend their assistance to all regardless of party affiliation.”

o Physical Fitness and Health

 PNP members shall strive to be physically and mentally fit and in good health at all times.

o Secrecy Discipline

 Police Officers must guard the confidentiality of all information and all matters relating to the official
function of the Police Organization.

 “Disclosure must always be authorized.”

o Social Awareness

 Police Officers and their immediate family members shall be encouraged to actively get involved in
religious, social and civic activities.

o 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.

o 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.

o Respect for Human Rights

 In the performance of duty, 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 .

o 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 conflict with their duties as public servants.

o 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.

o Discipline

 PNP members shall conduct themselves properly at all times in keeping with the rules and regulations of
the organization.

o Loyalty

 Police Officers must be loyal to the Constitution and to the police service, as manifested by their loyalty to
their superiors, peers and subordinates.

o Obedience to Superiors

 Police Officers must obey lawful orders of their superiors.

 “Police Officers must always be courteous to superiors and other appropriate authorities within the chain
of command.”

o Command Responsibility

 The doctrine that imposes commensurate accountability to one who is vested with authority to exercise
management and/or leadership functions.
Police Ethical Standards

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

o Morality

 Police Officers must adhere to high standard of morality and decency and shall set good examples for
others to follow.

 They must not be involved with illegal activities.

 They shall be loyal to their spouses.

o Judicious Use of Authority

 Police Officers must exercise proper and legitimate use of authority in the performance of duty.

JUDICIOUS – wise; power.

o Justice

 To give what is due to him.

 To respect the rights of others.

o Integrity

 Police Officers must not allow themselves to be victims of corruption and dishonest practices in
accordance with applicable laws.

o Humility

 Police Officers must never forget that they are public servants and not masters of the people.

 They should perform their duties without arrogance.

o Orderliness

 Police Officers must follow logical procedures in accomplishing tasks to minimize waste of time, money,
effort and other resources.

o Perseverance

 Police Officers must exert all efforts to achieve their goal or mission even in the face of difficulties and
obstacles.

Police Customs and Traditions

o Customs

 Rules of conduct formed by repetition of acts, uniformly practiced as social rules.

 Established usage or social practices carried on by tradition that has obtained the force of law.

o Courtesy

 A manifestation or expression of consideration and respect.

Police Customs on Courtesy

o Salute – is the usual greetings rendered by uniformed members upon meeting and recognizing person entitled to
a salute.
o Salute to National Color and Standard – members stand at attention and salute the national color and standard
as these pass by them or when the national color is raised or lowered during ceremonies.
o Address or Title – PNP members who are junior in rank must address senior members with SIR or MA’AM.

Courtesy Call

When a Police Officer appears before a superior officer as a sign of respect and in acknowledgement of the latter’s
authority or position.

o Courtesy Call of Newly Assigned/Appointed Member – PNP members who are newly appointed or
assigned in a unit or command call on the chief of the unit or command and other key personnel as a matter
of courtesy, as well as for accounting, orientation and other purposes.
o Christmas Call – PNP members pay a Christmas Call on their local executives in their respective areas of
responsibility.
 o New Year’s Call – PNP members pay a New Year’s call on their commanders and /or key officials in their
respective areas of responsibility.
o Promotion Call – Newly promoted PNP members call on their unit head. On this occasion, they are usually
given due recognition and congratulations by their peers for such deserved accomplishment.
o Exit Call – PNP members pay an Exit Call on their superiors in the unit or command when relieved or reassigned
out of the said unit or command.

Courtesy on the Post

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

Rank Has-Its-Own Privilege (RHIP)

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

Police Customs on Ceremonies

o Flag Raising Ceremony – PNP members honor the flag by hoisting it and singing the National Anthem before
the start of the official day’s work.
o Flag Lowering Ceremony – At the end of the official days’ work, the PNP members pause for a moment
to salute the lowering of the flag.
o Half-Mast – The flag is raised at half-mast in deference to deceased uniformed members of the command.
o Funeral Service and Honors – Departed uniformed members, retirees, war veterans or former PC/INP
members are given vigil, necrological services and graveside honors as a gesture of farewell.
o Ceremony Tendered to Retirees – In recognition of their long, faithful and honorable service to the PNP,
a testimonial activity shall be tendered in their honor.
o Honor Ceremony – Arrival and departure honor ceremonies are rendered to visiting dignitaries, VIPs, PNP
Officers with the grade of Chief Superintendent and above and AFP officers of equivalent grade, unless waived
o Turnover Ceremony – The relinquishment and assumption of command or key position is publicly
announced in a Turnover Ceremony by the outgoing and incoming officers in the presence of the immediate
superior or his representative. Outgoing Commander/Director should not leave his post without proper turnover.
Turn-over includes turnover of properties/equipment, human and material resources.
o Wedding Ceremony -- During marriage of PNP members, a ceremony is conducted with participants in
uniform and swords drawn.
o Anniversary – The birth or institutional establishment of a command or unit is commemorated in an
Anniversary Ceremony.

Social Decorum

o A set of norms and standards practiced by Police Officers during social and other functions.

Police Customs on Social Decorum

o Proper Attire

 Wearing of prescribed uniform

 Wearing, as part of uniform, awards and decorations earned in accordance with the prescribed rules and
regulations.
 Advance to haircut prescribed by rules and regulations.
 Manner of Walking: Police Officers are expected to walk with pride and dignity.

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

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

Other Police Customs

o Visiting the Sick- Immediate commanders or other available officers of the unit visit PNP Members who are
sick in the hospital, their residence or any place of confinement in order that their needs are attended to.
o Survivor Assistance of Heir of Deceased Members- A survivor officer is designated whenever
PNP members die, to render maximum assistance to their bereaved family until all benefits due shall have been
received.
o Visiting the Religious Leaders- PNP Officers visit religious leaders in their areas of assignment to establish or
maintain rapport and cooperation between the different religious leaders and the PNP.
o Athletics- PNP members indulge in physical fitness activities o insure that their proper physical appearance
and bearing are smaller than the size of his chest and in conformity with the standard set forth by the
organization.
o Happy Hours- Usually on Friday or any other day suitable for the occasion, PNP members gather together at
their PNP club for a light hearted jesting or airing of minor gripes.

Traditions

o Bodies of beliefs, stories, customs and usages handed down from generation to generation with the effect of an
unwritten law.
Police Traditions

o Spiritual Beliefs- PNP members are traditionally religious and God-loving person. They attend religious services
together with the members of their family.
o Valor- History attests that the Filipino law enforcers have exemplified the tradition of valor in defending
the country from aggression and oppression and protecting/preserving the life and property of the people.
They sacrificed their limbs and lives for the sake of their countrymen whom they have pledged to serve.
o 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.
o Discipline- The discipline of the PNP members is manifested by instinctive obedience to lawful orders and
thorough and spontaneous actions towards attainment of organizational objectives guided by moral, ethical and
legal norms.
o Gentlemanliness- PNP members are upright in character, gentle in manners, dignified in appearance, and
sincere in their concern to fellowmen.
o Word of Honor- PNP members’ word is their bond. They stand by and commit to uphold it.
o Duty- PNP members have historically exemplified themselves as dedicated public servants who perform their
tasks with a deep sense of responsibility and self-sacrifice. They shall readily accept assignment anywhere in the
country.
o Loyalty- PNP members are traditionally loyal to the organization, country and people as borne by history
and practice.
o Camaraderie- The binding spirit that enhances teamwork and cooperation in the police organization, extending
to the people they serve., in manifested by the PNP members’ deep commitment and concern for one
another.

Police Officer’s Pledge

o I will love and serve God, my country and people;

o I will uphold the Constitution and obey legal orders of the duly constituted authorities;

o I will oblige myself to maintain a high standard of morality and professionalism;

o I will respect the customs and traditions of the police service; and

o I will live a decent and virtuous life to serve as an example to others.

PNP Ethics Day

o Celebrated yearly on 7 January.

o Started on January 7, 1995 and celebrated every year thereafter.

Police Community Relations (PCR)

Background

Section 2 of RA 6975 reads: DECLARATION OF POLICY – It is hereby declared to be the policy of the State to
promote peace and order, ensure public safety and further strengthen local government capability aimed towards the
effective delivery of the basic services to the citizenry through establishment of a highly efficient and competent police
force that is national in scope and civilian in character. Towards this end, the State shall bolster a system of
coordination and cooperation among the citizenry, local executives and the Integrated Law Enforcement and
Public Safety Agencies created under this Act.

Said provision was later amended by RA 8551, which reads:

Section 2 of RA 8551 reads: DECLARATION OF POLICY – It is hereby declared the policy of the State to
establish a highly efficient and competent police force which is national in scope and civilian in character administered and
controlled by a national police commission. The Philippine National Police (PNP) shall be community and service
oriented agency responsible for the maintenance of peace and order and public safety.

PNP VISION

The men and women of the PNP is committed to a vision of a professional, dynamic and highly motivated
Philippine National Police working in partnership with a responsive community towards the attainment of a safe place to
live, work, invest and to do business with.

PNP MISSION

To enforce the law, to prevent and control crimes, to maintain peace and order, and to ensure public safety and
internal security with the active support of the community.

DEFINITIONS

Police – a group of persons establish, maintained and organized for keeping order, safety, protection of lives and
property, and for the prevention and detection of crimes.
Community – refers to the civilian populace or the public in general, and shall be used interchangeably with the terms
public, citizenry, society and private sectors.

- a body of people organized into political, municipal or social unity or a body of persons living in the same locality.

- derived from the Latin word “communis” which means “common” and “tatis” which means “fellowship”.

Police-Community Relations – the act of bringing about better understanding, confidence and acceptance for an
individual or an organization.

Police Public Relations – the continuing processes by which endeavors are made to obtain the goodwill and cooperation
of the public for effective enforcement of the law and accomplishment of the police purposes.

Human Relations – consists of the fundamental rules both moral and legal, which govern the relationship of men in all
aspects of life.

Media/Mass Media – the channels through which information is disseminated to the public. May be in the form of
television, movies, radio, or newspaper, and the like.

Propaganda – the planned use of mass communication for public purposes.

Police Public Image – refers to how people in the community perceive or regard the police.

FOUNDATION OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS

Efficient Service

REQUIREMENTS FOR GOOD COMMUNITY RELATIONS

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 standards of management and operations.

THREE ASPECTS OF POLICE-COMMUNITY RELATIONS

1. COMMUNITY SERVICE – activities that provide service to the community may be in form of medical-dental mission,
sports clinic, feeding programs, seminars, etc.

2. COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION – involvement of the community in the various social projects, particularly, in the area
of crime prevention.

3. PUBLIC RELATIONS – activities directed at creating and maintaining favorable impressions to the public.

- projection of the police public image to the people to gain their support and cooperation.

OBJECTIVES OF POLICE-COMMUNITY RELATIONS

1. To maintain and develop the goodwill and confidence of the community for the police;

2. To obtain cooperation and assistance;

3. To develop public understanding and support, and appreciation for the service of the police;

4. To create a broader understanding and sympathy with the problems and needs of the police;

5. To facilitate law enforcement and compliance;

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

7. To achieve the police purposes of preserving the peace, protection of life and property, and the prevention of crime.

PRINCIPLES OF POLICE-COMMUNITY RELATIONS

1. Community support must be maintained.

2. Community resentment must be avoided.

3. Community goodwill must be developed.

4. Community must be kept informed.

FOUR (4) GENERAL APPROACHES IN POLICE-COMMUNITY RELATIONS

1. EXTERNALLY-ORIENTED APPROACH – directed towards the general public or various enclaves within the society.

2. YOUTH-ORIENTED APPROACH – directed the majority of police efforts towards the youth of the community.

3. SERVICE-ORIENTED APPROACH – emphasis is given to the alleviation of social problems as the basic objectives of
the program.

4. INTERNALLY-ORIENTED APPROACH – essential characteristics are the realization that the officer on beat creates
community relations because “Every officer of the organization is a police-community relations officer”.

TYPES OF POLICE-COMMUNITY RELATIONS

1. PUBLIC INFORMATION PROGRAM – designed to bridge communication gap between the police and the public.

Forms of Media Used:

a. Personal Media – consists of face-to-face communication, such as meetings, rallies, delivering speeches and
house-to-house visitation.

b. Mass Media – includes printed matter and audio-visual communications.

2. PUBLIC RELATIONS PROGRAM – designed to maintain harmony and mutual support between the police and the
community. It is also designed to sell the police to the public.

3. CIVIC ACTION PROGRAM – designed to maintain and encourage community development.

4. PSYCHOLOGICAL PROGRAM – designed to condition both friendly and hostile public, ensuring the facilitation of the
attainment of police objectives.

DUTIES OF PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

1. He shall issue press releases from time to time regarding police activities which are public concern.

2. He shall build good image through actual commendable performance, without inefficiency and corruption.

3. He shall evaluate public opinion and attitude with respect to policies, methods, and personnel of the police stations.

DUTIES OF A CIVIC ACTION OFFICER

1. He shall encourage and actively participate in athletic competitions to promote youth development by wisely
coordination with the social elements of the populace;

2. He shall initiate fund-raising campaigns for juvenile delinquents who are being rehabilitated;

3. He shall be alert to safeguard the community against loss and damage to properties and possible death, in the events
of calamity;

4. He shall render possible assistance, especially to the men folk in enabling them to obtain the means of productive
endeavors and discourage them from loitering in the streets or engaging in uneconomic activities, such as illegal gambling
and others.

MEASURES TO ENHANCE POLICE PUBLIC IMAGE

1. Increased police visibility through dispersal of personnel for the headquarters to the field officers;

2. Efficient and optimized delivery of police service to the communities;

3. Constant dialogues and meetings with the barangay officials in their respective territorial jurisdictions;

4. Community service-oriented policing by conducting seminars for the traffic aides, police aides, and the barangay tanod;
and

5. Coordination with the media for image-enhancing projects.

THE POLICE OFFICER’S INDIVIDUAL AND PROFESSIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS

Categories of Individual Public Relations

1. Domestic Relations – Police Officer’s dealing with his family, parents and immediate relatives.

2. Neighborhood Relations – Police Officer’s dealing with his neighbor.

3. Community Relations – Police Officer’s dealing with citizens of the community, city or town where he lives, and his
membership or contribution to the civic organizations or community association in the locality.

4. Church Relations – Police Officer’s dealing with the religious congregations or faith where he belongs.

5. Government Relations – Police Officer’s dealing with the government and its instrumentalities.
Categories of Professional Public Relations

1. Intra-departmental Relations – Police Officer’s relations with men and women in his own department superiors, the
station commander as well as the city or municipal mayors where he is assigned.

2. Inter-departmental Relations – Police Officer’s relations with other police agencies.

3. Citizen’s Relations – Includes all dealings or contacts with the citizens in relation to the enforcement of the law and
maintenance of peace and order, together with the giving of information to the public of criminal and non-criminal
activities.

4. Complainant’s Relations – Includes a Police officer’s dealings with complainants, the techniques of interviews, manner
of approach, and treatment of witnesses, as well as informers or assets.

5. Relation with Accused Persons

6. Relation with the State Prosecutors or Fiscals

7. Judicial Relations

8. Governmental Relations

INTEGRATED POLICE ADVISORY COUNCIL

In order to involve civil officials and the citizenry in the preservation of peace and order and the promotion of
public safety, there shall be created an advisory council in every level of the command of the PNP.

Composition of the Integrated Police Advisory Council

1. Local Civil Officials

2. Representatives of the Judiciary

3. Representatives of the Industrial Sector

4. Representatives of the Commercial Sector

5. Representatives of the Agricultural Sector

6. Representatives of the Religious Sector

7. Representatives of the Youth Sector

8. Representatives of the Educational Sector

9. Other Civic Organization

Functions of the Integrated Police Advisory Council

1. To advise the commander on matters pertaining to peace and order and public safety.

2. To recommend necessary measures to improve the law enforcement system and public safety conditions.

3. To assist the PNP in community relations, and public information, and in enhancing or promoting citizen’s involvement
in the preservation of peace and order, and public safety.