ABSTRACT
This study examined the Philippine National Police (PNP) Chaplain Service in reinforcing the core values of Maka-Diyos and Maka-Tao through faith-based and community-oriented interventions. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from PNP personnel in Police Regional Office 6 were analyzed to assess these programs' effectiveness, challenges, and future prospects. Findings indicated that faith-based initiatives, such as religious services, values formation, and spiritual counseling, enhance moral reasoning and ethical conduct. At the same time, community programs like pastoral visitations and outreach efforts foster public trust and police-community relations. However, resource constraints, institutional resistance, and interfaith inclusivity posed challenges to implementation. The study concluded that PNP chaplaincy programs significantly influenced personnel behavior and organizational ethics, catalyzing moral transformation. Strengthening policy support, resource allocation, and program institutionalization is recommended to sustain their impact.
Keywords: PNP Chaplain Service, Community-Based Programs, Faith-Based Programs, Public Trust, Moral Development
INTRODUCTION
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is pivotal in maintaining peace, order, and public safety. However, like any large organization, it faces internal personnel conduct and discipline challenges. These challenges often manifest as administrative complaints and cases, which may stem from various offenses, including neglect of duty, misconduct, dishonesty, and irregularity in performing duties. The increasing complexity of law enforcement in a rapidly changing society requires PNP personnel to adhere to high standards of professional behavior and ethical conduct. In this regard, the PNP Chaplain Service plays a crucial role in promoting the moral and spiritual well-being of the police force.
The researcher, in his capacity as the current chaplain of Police Regional Office 6, has been bothered by the volume of administrative cases against PNP personnel in Police Regional Office 6. For instance, from July 1, 2016 to August 31, 2024, 931 administrative cases were received, handled, and reported to the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM). These cases involved neglect of duty, misconduct, dishonesty, oppression, and other related offenses (Refer to Appendix G for details).
Handling these complaints within the PNP is crucial in determining the accountability and discipline of the personnel. The consistent number of complaints that proceeded to further legal action underscored the seriousness of the offenses and the need for continuous internal reform and ethical recalibration.
In this context of recurring administrative complaints and internal disciplinary challenges, the PNP Chaplain Service emerged as a critical institutional actor in promoting ethical behavior and instilling core values among PNP personnel. The Chaplain Service offers faith-based and community-oriented programs aimed at enhancing the moral integrity and spiritual resilience of police officers. These interventions are vital for individual well-being and fostering a culture of ethical accountability within the PNP. The researcher intended to scrutinize how PNP Core Values, particularly Maka-Diyos and Maka-Tao, are being strengthened through various programs and initiatives of the PNP Chaplain Service. The long-term goal is to create an implementable program for the well-rounded reformation of all PNP personnel.
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