BY: PMAJ Mae Ann R Cunanan
The role of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has evolved dramatically over the years. Initially seen as enforcers of the law, police officers today are tasked with a much broader mandate that includes fostering peace, promoting social harmony, and, most importantly, engaging actively with the communities they serve. This shift towards community-oriented policing has become the cornerstone of modern law enforcement in the country, a change exemplified by the creation of Policemen Responsible for Organizing, Training, and Empowering Communities (PROTECT).
The Origins of PROTECT
PROTECT was formed by a distinguished group of Metrobank Foundation’s Search for the Country’s Outstanding Policemen in Service (COPS) awardees from 2003 to 2008. These men and women, recognized for their exemplary service and commitment to community policing, came together with a shared vision: to continue serving the public even after receiving their accolades. Their goal was not only to uphold the principles of the PNP, but also to actively engage in programs that would empower the communities they served, fostering responsible citizenship and promoting a culture of peace and order.
On August 2, 2008, these awardees established PROTECT as an alumni organization to create a lasting impact through community outreach, social responsibility, and personal development. The group’s formation marked a significant shift in how law enforcement is delivered to the public, moving from the traditional crime-solving to an approach centered around community empowerment and proactive citizen involvement.
The Vision Behind PROTECT
The belief that effective policing extends beyond law enforcement to include teaching, organizing, and empowering communities inspired the founding of PROTECT. As police officers, the alumni members of PROTECT were already leaders in their respective areas, having built strong relationships with local residents and actively engaged in crime prevention and resolution. However, they recognized the need to expand their reach and strengthen their partnerships with the community, promoting responsible citizenship as a core value.
The group’s central mission became clear: to promote a culture of excellence within the police force while fostering responsible citizenship within their communities. PROTECT aims to serve as a model for other law enforcement personnel, demonstrating how police officers could lead initiatives that positively impact the people they serve regarding safety and civic responsibility.
Key Programs and Initiatives
One of PROTECT’s earliest initiatives was the launching of the “Pulis Ko, Teacher Ko at PROTECT Ako” advocacy program. This school-based program involved police officers conducting workshops on responsible citizenship for Grades 5 and 6 students and first-year high school students across Metro Manila and other country regions. The program was designed to complement the PNP’s Pulis Ko, Titser Ko program, emphasizing the importance of law-abiding behavior, civic duty, and personal responsibility.
The success of this program relied heavily on collaboration. In partnership with the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR) and the Network of Outstanding Teachers and Educators (NOTED), PROTECT trained police officers to become effective educators. These officers were equipped with the necessary skills for public speaking, lesson planning, and teaching methodologies to help them connect with students and impart the values of responsible citizenship.
In addition to its external programs, PROTECT also focuses on the personal development of its members. Programs such as financial literacy workshops and social graces seminars enhance officers’ skills and knowledge, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the complexities of their profession while also growing as individuals and leaders within their communities.
Alignment with PNP’s Community-Oriented Policing
The creation of PROTECT was aligned with the Philippine National Police’s broader shift towards community- oriented policing (COP), a strategy focused on strengthening the relationship between the police and the communities they serve. The COPS program sought to transform the police into more than just law enforcement officers but active participants in their communities, fostering collaboration, trust, and mutual respect.
This transformation reflected a recognition that the police alone could not maintain peace and order. Instead, it was essential for the community to actively participate in safeguarding the neighborhoods. PROTECT’s initiatives were designed to empower citizens, encouraging them to take ownership of their roles in promoting public safety and civic responsibility. This close-knit partnership between the police and the public became the foundation for many of PROTECT’s programs and remains central to its ongoing work.
PROTECT’s Growth and Future
Since its inception, PROTECT has grown significantly, gaining recognition not just for its dedication to community service but also for its focus on creating sustainable programs that other police officers could replicate across the country. By actively engaging with local communities and other organizations, PROTECT has developed a network of police officers and citizens who work together to uphold the values of responsible citizenship.
In addition to their educational programs and community outreach, PROTECT members have worked on initiatives that promote personal integrity, discipline, and social responsibility. Their involvement in various community- building activities has shown how police officers can catalyze positive change, encouraging citizens to take a proactive role in maintaining peace and order.
Looking to the future, PROTECT continues to expand its reach, forging new partnerships and initiatives that contribute to its mission of promoting responsible citizenship. As the organization grows, it aims to strengthen the relationship between the police and the communities they serve further, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for public safety and societal well-being.