PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

ULTIMATE GUIDE: HOW TO PASS BOARD LICENSURE

EXAM?
1. Set your mind that you are taking the exam.
2. Have a self-discipline.
3. Be resourceful in having review materials.
4. Preparation is always the key.
5. Review and keep on reading.
6. Be confident and optimistic that you will make it.
7. Relax your body and mind and don’t be pressured.
8. Always be humble.
9. Know a little bit of everything.
10. Don’t forget to pray.

Ms. Germaine Rae P. Surban, RCrim

Lecturer
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
TOPIC 1: INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS
WHAT IS ETHICS?
Etymologically, the word ethics is coined from the
Greek word “ethicos”, or that which pertains to “ethos”,
the English translation of which is “custom” or
“character”. From this etymological meaning, ethics is
taken to mean as a philosophical science that deals
with the morality of human conduct or human acts.
• Ethics also called morality, or moral
philosophy is the discipline that is concerned
with what is morally good and bad right and
wrong.
• The term is also applied to any system or
theory of moral values or principles.
• It is based on well-founded standards of right
and wrong that prescribe what humans ought
to do, usually in terms of rights, obligations,
benefits to society, fairness, or specific virtues.
• Additionally, ethics also refers to the study and
development of one's ethical standards.
As feelings, laws, and social norms can deviate
from what is ethical, it is necessary to regularly
examine one's standards to ensure that they are
reasonable and well-founded.
Although ethics has always been viewed as a branch
of philosophy, its all-embracing practical nature
links it with many other areas of study, including
anthropology biology, economics history, politics,
sociology, and theology.
Ethics remains distinct from such disciplines because
it is not a matter of factual knowledge in the way that
the sciences and other branches of inquiry are.
Instead, it has to do with determining the nature of
normative theories and applying these sets of
principles to practical moral problems.
Finally, being ethical is not the same as doing
“whatever society accepts.” In any society, most
people accept standards that are, in fact, ethical. But
standards of behavior in society can deviate from
what is ethical. An entire society can become ethically
corrupt.
ETHICS AND VALUES
• Ethics is defined as the science of the morality
of human acts and rational human behavior.
• Values is a qualitatively determined behavior
which has a normative obligatory character and
presupposes the liberty of possible decision.
To simplify further, ethics is the capacity to determine
right conduct and the knowledge of what is right from
wrong. Values, on the other hand, are the application
of ethics. It’s one thing to know what's good or bad,
and another thing to apply what you know.
UNDERSTANDING MORALITY
Moral integrity is the only true measure of what man
ought to be. The most successful professional is
nothing unless he too is morally upright. Thus, the
philosophers speak of Ethics as the “only necessary
knowledge”.
Morality is the foundation of every human society.
Without civic morality, communities perish; without
personal morality their survival has no value. Every
culture admits the importance of morality as a
standard of behavior. When the moral foundation of
a nation is threatened, society itself is threatened.
Morality is the quality of human acts by which they are
constituted as good, bad or indifferent.
ETHICS VS. MORALITY
ETHICS MORALITY
What is it? The rules of conduct recognized in Principles or habits with respectto
respect to a particular class of human right or wrong conduct. It defines
actions or a particular group,culture, etc. It how things should work according
defines how thing are according to the to an individual’s ideals and
rules. principles.
Source Social system / External Individual / Internal
Why we do it? Because society says it is the Because we believe in
right thing to do. something being right or wrong.
Flexibility Ethics are dependent on others for Usually consistent, although can
definition. They tend to be consistent change if an individual’s beliefs
within a change.
certain context, but can vary between
contexts.
MORALITY AND HUMAN EXISTENCE
There is morality because there is man.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
1. Man is the only Moral Being by virtue of the
following reasons.
a. Man is a being of action.
b. Man has intellect.
c. Man has will.
2. Man as an Animal
3. Man as a Rational Animal
4. Intellect compared with will
5. Concrete Basis of Morality
THE IMPORTANCE OF ETHICAL BEHAVIOR
1. Make society better
2. Treat everyone equally
3. Secure meaningful employment
4. Succeed at business
5. Lessen stress
ETHICS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
The police are essential to democracy. By ensuring
that no person is above the law, the police protect
citizens from victimization. Through the enforcement of
the law police ensure that no individual or group
violently assert its will over public order.
ETHICAL ROLE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
OFFICERS
The ethical role is performed by being objective and
ethical in a personal behavior and in functioning as a
representative of the criminal justice system. The
police officers are representatives of the criminal
justice system even when not in the performance of
their duties. Therefore, they must observe the
following:
• To act in a manner that reflects the belief in the
fundamental value of ethical behavior and
application of this value to their job.
• To conduct daily activities in an objective
manner striving to be uninfluenced by emotion,
personal prejudice or insufficient evidence.
• To provide objective and constructive
assistance or information to all persons,
regardless of personal feelings
• To assist the public to understand how they can
help in achieving objective and ethical
behavior.
ETHICS AND THE PURSUIT OF A LAW
ENFORCEMENT CAREER
Without a doubt, the most important attributes of an
individual applying for a job in law enforcement are the
applicant's integrity and moral behavior. To be a law
enforcement officer individuals must demonstrate
a life lived morally.
Of course, in some instances, an applicant may have
on occasion been involved in isolated immoral
activities. This is often understandable, however, law
enforcement employers will not hire an applicant if they
detect a demonstrated pattern of immoral behavior.
The moral history of an applicant is closely
scrutinized by law enforcement agencies through
background checks, polygraphs, detailed
interviews, and integrity questionnaires. Each of
these methods is used to root out applicants who may
have exhibited poor moral choices in their past.
Right or wrong, law enforcement agencies view past
performance as a predictor of future moral
performance.
Predicting an applicant’s future moral conduct is largely
based on the common acceptance of the Slippery
Slope Theory.
• According to this theory, applicants who exhibit
minor moral infractions are viewed as likely to
progress to more serious immoral behavior.
• The theory describes a small deviant acts that
will become increasingly easy and lead to
participation in larger more serious acts.
• These small acts are "ladder" in which
corruption is the result, after a series of immoral
steps.
• In this theory, it also describes the journey of
some police officers as they travel from being
moral civilians to immoral police officers.
AS EMPLOYEES IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
AGENCIES
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
Law enforcement careers come with several duties and
responsibilities for which moral behavior is mandatory:
1. Discretion. Discretion in law enforcement is
necessary to efficiently manage call loads and
to mediate minor incidents. Discretion in law
enforcement includes whom to arrest whom to
investigate. who talk to and whom to interview.
More importantly, in these decisions officers
have the power to deprive people of their
freedom. It is critical that law enforcement
officials possess moral character so that the
enormous decisions they must make are
balanced and fair.
2. Power. Because law enforcement officers
exercise much discretion they also wield great
power. They have the power to arrest, detain,
search, seize and question.
3. Public service. The state employs law
enforcement officers to carry out the state's
mandate: enforcing the law and keeping the
peace. The trust the state places in law
enforcement and other public officials to carry
out this duty in a responsible fashion is called
public trust.
The ultimate test of public trust is that law
enforcement officials walk the talk or practice
what they preach, and that they never
engage in behavior that if performed by
others, would be considered to break the
law.
MAJOR ETHICAL SYSTEMS
When learning how to resolve ethical dilemmas it is
important to be able to articulate a justifiable rationale
for why you believe one decision seems right and
another seems wrong. Having a basic understanding
of the major ethical theories will help you toward
an ethical resolution learning how to articulate and
justify the decision.
CATEGORIES OF ETHICAL THEORIES
1. Normative Theory
Describe not only what ought to be done, but
also why things should be done that in some
instances may appear counterintuitive to what
is considered as an ethical decision would be.
Such a theory is often called an ethical system
because it provides a system that allows
people to determine ethical actions that
individuals should take.
2. Meta-ethics Theory
This theory does not address how a person
should behave, rather meta-ethics is related
more to the study of the ethical theory itself.
Here the interest is in evaluating moral and
ethical theories and systems.
3. Applied Ethics Theory
It describes the application of normative
theories to specific issues, usually related to
work or belonging to an organization, for
example, policies and procedures of
organizations or ethical codes of mafia versus
ethical codes of police officers. Applied ethics
is defined as "theories of ethics concerned with
the application of normative ethics to particular
ethical issues."
An example is knowing and practicing the
Philippine National Police Ethical
Standards as a police officer.
TYPES OF NORMATIVE ETHICAL THEORY
1. Utilitarian Ethics
Utilitarian ethics is a normative ethical system that is
primarily concerned with the consequences of ethical
decisions; therefore it can be described as a
teleological theory or consequentialist theory,
which are essentially the same thing, both having a
notion that the consequence of the act is the most
important determinant of the act being moral or not.
Teleological reasoning takes into consideration that the
ethical decision is dependent upon the consequences
("ends") of the actions.
In teleological reasoning, a person will do the right thing
if the consequences of his or her actions are good.
Additionally, if an action by a person was an act that
was "not good," but the consequences turned out to be
"good" under some theories of teleological reasoning,
the act may be deemed a good ethical act.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
As a result, of the consequentialist nature of
utilitarianism, the means to get to the ethical decision
("end") are secondary: the result is that which must
be considered before determining the morality of
the decision.
Importance of Utilitarian Theory in Law
Enforcement Moral Dilemmas
Law enforcement officers are required to make exigent
decisions, without the ability to consult with senior
officers or policy and procedures. In some instances,
when confronted with decisions, officers may want to
rely on utilitarianism to make an ethical decision that is
defensible when scrutinized in the future.
2. Deontology
Probably the most complex of all the ethical systems is
the deontological theory. The word deontology comes
from the Greek word deon, meaning obligation or
duty. It is an ethical system primarily concerned with
one’s duty.
A duty is something that is required to be executed,
regardless of whether the police officer wants or not.
Importance of Deontological Theory in Law
Enforcement Moral Dilemmas
When confronted with a duty that they may not want to
perform, the officers should consider that they agreed
to perform duties when they swore their oath.
3. Virtue Ethics
For law enforcement, the major foundation in virtue
ethics is the idea that if you are a good person you will
do good things, and to be good, you must do well.
Importance of Virtue Ethics Assist in Law
Enforcement Moral Dilemmas
Law enforcement agencies place a great emphasis on
the good behavior of their officers. One way to ensure
a strong likelihood of good behavior is to hire those who
have a moral character that reflects de values of the
organization.
1. Virtue ethics, at its core is also simplistic,
having two tenets that are important for law
enforcement. There is no need to measure
consequences or the morality of the action
Simply, the task is to be good and do good
acts. If officers are good, they will act in a
virtuous manner.
2. There is a need to practice virtue. By practicing
being virtuous, you will become virtuous in
difficult situations automatically.
4. Ethics of Care
Also known as feminist ethics, ethics of care is
primarily concerned with caring for others This has
evolved from the need to care for those who cannot
care for themselves, such as infants. Ethics of care
also supports the notion that issues should be resolved
with compassion while building human relationships.
Importance of Ethics of Care Theory in Law
Enforcement Moral Dilemmas
Building rapport with members of the community is an
important aspect of community policing. This enables
officers to identify issues and to deal with them with
compassion.
5. Egoism
Unlike other theories that prescribe how you ought to
behave, egoism is a descriptive principle that does not
tell you necessarily how you ought to behave but
rather why you behave the way you do. It infers that
the person who acts in an egotistical manner does so
because it is natural to act in this way and therefore
it is a moral action unto itself.
Importance of Egoism in Law Enforcement in Moral
Dilemmas
Egoism does not suggest that police officers should act
in their self-interest; certainly this would not be
appropriate for law enforcement personnel. Where
egoism may help is to better understand why people do
things that may appear selfish. This may help them
develop empathy for the suspects that appear to be
selfish and allow them to better understand that their
actions are driven by egoism.
6. Religion or Divine Command Theory
Religion is often considered the most widely used
system to make ethical decisions and to conduct moral
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
reasoning. Throughout the world, people rely on a
variety of religions to help them determine the most
ethical action to take. While divine command theory is
widely used throughout the world, there are
differences: the application of the theory may differ
from religion to religion, and it may differ within each
religion.
Importance of Divine Command Theory in Law
Enforcement Moral Dilemmas
Officers who believe that God is always good would
therefore, believe that all of God's commands and
prohibitions are good. By interpreting scripture,
following the directions of religious authority or making
individual interpretations of God's command and
prohibitions, officers are therefore able to do good
understanding that ultimately it is God's commands
that they follow and therefore their actions are good.
7. Natural Law
Natural law was espoused by Saint Thomas Aquinas,
who viewed the world as being created by God and
understood that humans are rational beings capable of
using their intellect to comprehend the world. By
extension, God enabled humans to reason naturally to
make ethical choices. Aquinas viewed the first
principle of natural law as "good is to be done and
promoted, and evil is to be avoided. Simply put
natural law asserts that what is good is natural, and
what is natural is good.
Importance of Natural Law in Law Enforcement in
Moral Dilemmas
Natural law can reaffirm in officers the importance of
their job that being to preserve their own life and the
human species. Officer could be reminded that
property is not as important as life and that their sole
function should be public safety, rather than the
protection of property, which is one of the common law
duties of police officers.
8. Social Contract Theory
Social contract theory is another descriptive theory
about society and the relationship between rules and
laws, and why society needs them. Accordingly, a
society without rules and laws to govern actions would
be a dreadful place to live. In such a state people would
act on their own accord, without any responsibility to
their community.
Importance of Social Contract Theory in Law
Enforcement in Moral Dilemmas
While social contract theory does not tell people how
they ought to behave it does provide a basis to
understand why society has implemented rules,
regulations, and laws. If not for the social contract
theory our understanding of the need for these rules
would be limited. Specifically for law enforcement
social contract theory is important to justify the power
that law enforcement can exert over the population as
a whole.
9. Rawls’ Theory of Justice
John Rawls (1921-2002) was a contemporary
philosopher who studied theories surrounding justice
His theories are not focused on helping individuals
cope with ethical dilemmas, rather they address
general concepts that consider how the criminal justice
system ought to behave and function in a liberal
democracy.
• Each person is to have an equal right to the
most extensive basic liberty compatible with a
similar liberty for others
• Social and economic inequalities are to be
arranged so that they are both (a) reasonably
expected to be to everyone's advantage (b)
attached to positions and offices open to all
MODERN ETHICAL ISSUES IN LAW
ENFORCEMENT
1. Off-Duty Life
Police officers are held to an extremely high standard
that requires their personal lives to reflect the integrity
of their position. They must maintain a professional
image at all times because they are under constant
public scrutiny and rely on the public's trust to maintain
their power position.
2. Upholding the Law and the Citizen’s Rights
Each officer swears an oath to uphold the law and to
defend an individual's constitutional rights. One of the
ethical issues that an officer faces daily is the ability to
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
uphold these oaths when they are seemingly
contradictory.
3. Necessary Force
All police officers have the authority to use necessary
force to uphold the law, but in some cases their use of
force is unjustified. This ethical issue cops face each
day can, and does, put their lives in danger when
dealing with those individuals that are non-compliant.
4. Acting Impartially
One of the ethical issues officers are faced with is the
requirement to act impartially. This idealistic type of
oath causes a host of problems in real-world situations.
It's not always possible to act impartially especially for
local officers that handle the same crowds of people
throughout their career.
ETHICAL DILEMMAS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
To solve ethical dilemmas, you must be aware of what
values you consider important. Values are defined as
unverifiable "elements of desirability, worth, and
importance". They are unverifiable because they are
not capable of being scientifically proven and may vary
from person to person
Solving Ethical Dilemmas
1. Determine whether there is an ethical issue
or/and dilemma. Is there a conflict of values, or
rights, or professional responsibilities?
2. Identify the key values and principles involved.
What meanings and limitations are typically
attached to these competing values?
3. Rank the values or ethical principles which in
your professional judgment - are most relevant
to the issue or dilemma. What reasons can you
provide for prioritizing one competing
value/principle over another?
4. Develop an action plan that is consistent with
the ethical priorities that have been determined
as central to the dilemma. Have you conferred
with clients and colleagues, as appropriate
about the potential risks and consequences of
alternative courses of action? Can you support
or justify your action plan with the values/
principles on which the plan is based?
5. Implement your plan utilizing the most
appropriate practice skills and competencies.
How will you make use of core social work skills
such as sensitive communication skillful
negotiation, and cultural competence?
6. Reflect on the outcome of this ethical decision-
making process. How would you evaluate the
consequences of this process for those
involved: client(s). professional(s). and
organization(s)?
STEPS TO MAKE ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING
EFFICIENT AND PRACTICAL
1. Establish the facts surrounding the ethical
dilemma.
2. Determine your legal obligations and duties.
3. Establish the interested participants involved.
4. Determine the ethical values of each
participant.
5. Consider normative ethical theories as an aide
to determine a course of action.
6. Consider options that would be ethically sound.
7. Consideration of the possible negative and
positive outcomes of each possible option.
ETHICS OF GRATUITIES
A gratuity is the gift of an item to another person based
solely on their occupation. A gratuity is most often
given to officers by businessmen, politicians,
government employees, public utility vehicle drivers,
waiters, and any other persons. Additionally and
problematically, gratuities are given for services
expected and services already rendered; free meals for
law enforcement officers often come with strings
attached, or at the very least, as an insurance policy to
gain favors in the future should the need arise.
A cynic would argue that offering free meals is not
an altruistic gesture, but rather an insurance policy
for security in the future.
Four main reasons that gratuities are given to law
enforcement officers are:
1. Because of the Theory of Reciprocity where
people feel they owe something to the giver. In
a law enforcement context this will be collected
after the gift is given.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
2. To ensure future cooperation, where the gift
giver may want the services of the officer in the
future. This can include gaining biased support
of officers in spite of the facts surrounding an
issue.
3. To use the presence of police officers attracted
by free meals, as an advertisement to potential
patrons that the environment is safe.
4. To use the presence of police officers, attracted
by free meals, as a way to dissuade potentially
problematic patrons from patronizing the
restaurant.
Gratuities are often seen as the first step on the
slippery slope toward major corruption and it is for
this reason that accepting gratuities is always
frowned upon by some law enforcement agencies.
• Law enforcement officers must be careful when
receiving gratuities for the following reasons:
• Police are professionals and professionals
don't take gratuities
• People will expect different treatment
• Gratuities could erode public confidence
• There is the slippery slope potential, the receipt
of gratuities can be a gateway for more
corruption
ATTRIBUTES OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
PERSONNEL
• Courageous. Officers who are willing to put
themselves in harm's way to enforce the law to
protect people and property and to prevent
crime.
• Perseverance. Officers who are not easily
deterred from doing the right thing or
investigating crimes.
• Compassion. Officers who can empathize and
sympathize with lawbreakers and victims and
who understand that situations are complex
and that everyone deserves respect.
• Generosity. Officers who offer themselves off
duty by volunteering and who try to better the
lives of others through community service.
• Truthfulness. Officers who are trustworthy
and who can be counted on to speak the truth,
even when the truth is embarrassing, or results
in a not-guilty decision in a case that is
important to the officer.
• Good Temper. Officers who, when confronted
with difficult situations stay calm and who can
withstand pressure to react physically or
verbally.
CORE VIRTUES OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
PERSONNEL
• Prudence. Officers with the ability to decide
the correct action to take when rules and policy
are not present.
• Trust. Officers with the ability to be relied upon
for truth. This must exist between officers and
civilians, officers themselves, and officers and
the courts.
• Effacement of self-interests. Officers who do
not abuse their position of authority or gain
favoritisms due to their position.
• Courage. Officers who place themselves in
danger intellectually and physically. Officers
who are not afraid of testifying in court and
making arrests in tense and intimidating
settings.
• Intellectual honesty. Officers who act while
weighing what they learned in training and
whose actions reflect their training and their
academic abilities.
• Justice. Officers who treat everyone fairly
regardless of personal biases, and who act
toward individuals as if looking through a veil of
neutrality.
• Responsibility. Officers who understand what
is right and that there are other courses of
actions, but have the intent to do right. Officers
who can be counted upon to keep oaths, and
to be accountable.
SIX PILLARS OF CHARACTER OF LAW
ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL
• Trustworthiness. Includes integrity, promise
keeping, and loyalty.
• Respect. Treating everyone with respect,
regardless of any biases or provocations.
• Responsibility. Includes accountability, the
pursuit of excellence, and self-restraint.
• Justice and fairness. Includes equity and
demonstrating due process.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
• Caring. Showing concern for others. Showing
consideration for decisions that affect others.
• Civic virtue and citizenship. Being socially
conscious and demonstrating concern for one's
community.
LAW ENFORCEMENT CODE OF ETHICS
As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty
is to serve the community; to safeguard lives and
property; to protect the innocent against deception, the
weak against oppression or intimidation and the
peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect
the constitutional rights of all to liberty, equality, and
justice.
I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all
and will behave in a manner that does not bring
discredit to me or to my agency. I will maintain
courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn or
ridicule; develop self-restraint; and be constantly
mindful of the welfare of others. Honest in thought and
deed both in my personal and official life, I will be
exemplary in obeying the law and the regulations of my
department. Whatever I see or hear of a confidential
nature or that is confided to me in my official capacity
will be kept ever secret unless revelation is necessary
in the performance of my duty.
I will never act officiously or permit personal feelings,
prejudices, political beliefs, aspirations, animosities or
friendships to influence my decisions. With no
compromise for crime and with relentless prosecution
of criminals, I will enforce the law courteously and
appropriately without fear or favor, malice or ill will,
never employing unnecessary force or violence and
never accepting gratuities.
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.
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.
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT
OFFICIALS
This Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials
was adopted by United Nations General Assembly
Resolution 34/169 of 17 Dec 1979.
a. Law enforcement official shall at all times
fulfill the duty imposed upon them by law, by
serving the community and by protecting all
persons against illegal acts, consistent with
the high degree of responsibility required by
their profession.
b. In the performance of their duty, law
enforcement officials shall respect and
protect human dignify and maintain and
uphold the human rights of all persons.
c. Law enforcement officials may use force
only when strictly necessary and to the
extent required for the performance of their
duty.
d. Matters of a confidential nature in the
possession of law enforcement officials shall
be kept confidential, unless the performance
of duty or the needs of justice strictly require
otherwise.
e. No law enforcement official may inflict,
instigate or tolerate any act of torture or other
cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or
punishment, nor may any law enforcement
official invoke superior order or exceptional
circumstances such as a state of war, a
threat to national security, internal political
instability or any other public emergency as
a justification of torture or other cruel,
inhuman or degrading treatment or
punishment.
f. Law enforcement officials shall ensure the
full protection of the health of persons in their
custody and, in particular, shall take
immediate action to secure medical attention
whenever required.
g. Law enforcement officials shall not commit
any act of corruption. They shall also
rigorously oppose and combat all such acts.
h. Law enforcement officials shall respect the
law and the present Code. They shall also,
to the best of their capability, prevent and
rigorously oppose any violation of them.
Law enforcement officials who have reason to believe
that a violation of the present Code has occurred or is
about to occur shall report the matter to their superior
authorities and, where necessary, to other
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
appropriate authorities or organs vested with
reviewing or remedial power.
TOPIC 2: LAW ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONAL
CONDUCT
• The code of ethics is a moral standard that the
company expects employees to follow. At a
minimum, the laws and industry regulations
establish ethics guidelines.
• It is referred to as a Value Statement, it
behaves like the Constitution with general
principles to guide behavior; outlining a set of
principles that affect decision-making.
• A Code of Conduct applies the Code of Ethics
to a host of relevant situations.
• Code of Conduct might list several specific
laws relevant to different areas of
organizational operations, or industry, that
employees need to obey.
• The Code of Conduct outlines specific
behaviors that are required or prohibited as a
condition of ongoing employment.
• Professional conduct is the field of regulation
of members of professional bodies, either
acting under statutory or contractual powers.
• Professional conduct is behavior that meets or
exceeds ethical expectations for a given
profession.
• Personal ethics refers to the ethics that a
person identifies with in respect to people and
situations that they deal with in everyday life.
• Professional ethics refers to the ethic that a
person must adhere to in respect of their
interactions and business dealings in their
professional life.
CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
Republic Act No. 6713
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A CODE OF CONDUCT
AND ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR PUBLIC
OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES, TO UPHOLD THE
TIME-HONORED PRINCIPLE OF PUBLIC OFFICE
BEING A PUBLIC TRUST, GRANTING
INCENTIVES AND REWARDS FOR EXEMPLARY
SERVICE, ENUMERATING PROHIBITED ACTS
AND TRANSACTIONS AND PROVIDING
PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
This Act shall be known as the "Code of Conduct
and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and
Employees."
Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act, the term:
(a) "Government" includes the National
Government, the local governments, and all other
instrumentalities, agencies or branches of the
Republic of the Philippines including government-
owned or controlled corporations, and their
subsidiaries.
(b) "Public Officials" includes elective and
appointive officials and employees, permanent or
temporary, whether in the career or non-career
service, including military and police personnel,
whether or not they receive compensation, regardless
of amount.
(c) "Gift" refers to a thing or a right to dispose of
gratuitously, or any act or liberality, in favor of another
who accepts it, and shall include a simulated sale or
an ostensibly onerous disposition thereof. It shall not
include an unsolicited gift of nominal or insignificant
value not given in anticipation of, or in exchange for,
a favor from a public official or employee.
(d) "Receiving any gift" includes the act of accepting
directly or indirectly, a gift from a person other than a
member of his family or relative as defined in this Act,
even on the occasion of a family celebration or
national festivity like Christmas, if the value of the gift
is neither nominal nor insignificant, or the gift is given
in anticipation of, or in exchange for, a favor.
(e) "Loan" covers both simple loan and commodatum
as well as guarantees, financing arrangements or
accommodations intended to ensure its approval.
(f) "Substantial stockholder" means any person
who owns, directly or indirectly, shares of stock
sufficient to elect a director of a corporation. This term
shall also apply to the parties to a voting trust.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
(g) "Family of public officials or employees"
means their spouses and unmarried children under
eighteen (18) years of age.
(h) "Person" includes natural and juridical persons
unless the context indicates otherwise.
(i) "Conflict of interest" arises when a public official
or employee is a member of a board, an officer, or a
substantial stockholder of a private corporation or
owner or has a substantial interest in a business, and
the interest of such corporation or business, or his
rights or duties therein, may be opposed to or affected
by the faithful performance of official duty.
(j) "Divestment" is the transfer of title or disposal of
interest in property by voluntarily, completely and
actually depriving or dispossessing oneself of his right
or title to it in favor of a person or persons other than
his spouse and relatives as defined in this Act.
(k) "Relatives" refers to any and all persons related
to a public official or employee within the fourth civil
degree of consanguinity or affinity, including bilas,
inso and balae.
Norms of Conduct of Public Officials and
Employees.
(A) Every public official and employee shall
observe the following as standards of personal
conduct in the discharge and execution of official
duties:
(a) Commitment to public interest. - Public officials
and employees shall always uphold the public interest
over and above personal interest. All government
resources and powers of their respective offices must
be employed and used efficiently, effectively, honestly
and economically, particularly to avoid wastage in
public funds and revenues.
(b) Professionalism. - Public officials and employees
shall perform and discharge their duties with the
highest degree of excellence, professionalism,
intelligence and skill. They shall enter public service
with utmost devotion and dedication to duty. They
shall endeavor to discourage wrong perceptions of
their roles as dispensers or peddlers of undue
patronage.
(c) Justness and sincerity. - Public officials and
employees shall remain true to the people at all times.
They must act with justness and sincerity and shall
not discriminate against anyone, especially the poor
and the underprivileged. They shall at all times
respect the rights of others, and shall refrain from
doing acts contrary to law, good morals, good
customs, public policy, public order, public safety and
public interest. They shall not dispense or extend
undue favors on account of their office to their
relatives whether by consanguinity or affinity except
with respect to appointments of such relatives to
positions considered strictly confidential or as
members of their personal staff whose terms are
coterminous with theirs.
(d) Political neutrality. - Public officials and
employees shall provide service to everyone without
unfair discrimination and regardless of party affiliation
or preference.
(e) Responsiveness to the public. - Public officials
and employees shall extend prompt, courteous, and
adequate service to the public. Unless otherwise
provided by law or when required by the public
interest, public officials and employees shall provide
information of their policies and procedures in clear
and understandable language, ensure openness of
information, public consultations and hearings
whenever appropriate, encourage suggestions,
simplify and systematize policy, rules and
procedures, avoid red tape and develop an
understanding and appreciation of the socio-
economic conditions prevailing in the country,
especially in the depressed rural and urban areas.
(f) Nationalism and patriotism. - Public officials and
employees shall at all times be loyal to the Republic
and to the Filipino people, promote the use of locally
produced goods, resources and technology and
encourage appreciation and pride of country and
people. They shall endeavor to maintain and defend
Philippine sovereignty against foreign intrusion.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
(g) Commitment to democracy. - Public officials and
employees shall commit themselves to the
democratic way of life and values, maintain the
principle of public accountability, and manifest by
deeds the supremacy of civilian authority over the
military. They shall at all times uphold the Constitution
and put loyalty to country above loyalty to persons or
party.
(h) Simple living. - Public officials and employees
and their families shall lead modest lives appropriate
to their positions and income. They shall not indulge
in extravagant or ostentatious display of wealth in any
form.
(B) The Civil Service Commission shall adopt
positive measures to promote (1) observance of
these standards including the dissemination of
information programs and workshops authorizing
merit increases beyond regular progression
steps, to a limited number of employees
recognized by their office colleagues to be
outstanding in their observance of ethical
standards; and (2) continuing research and
experimentation on measures which provide
positive motivation to public officials and
employees in raising the general level of
observance of these standards.
Duties of Public Officials and Employees.
In the performance of their duties, all public
officials and employees are under obligation to:
(a) Act promptly on letters and requests. - All
public officials and employees shall, within fifteen (15)
working days from receipt thereof, respond to letters,
telegrams or other means of communications sent by
the public. The reply must contain the action taken on
the request.
(b) Submit annual performance reports. - All heads
or other responsible officers of offices and agencies
of the government and of government-owned or
controlled corporations shall, within forty-five (45)
working days from the end of the year, render a
performance report of the agency or office or
corporation concerned. Such report shall be open and
available to the public within regular office hours.
(c) Process documents and papers expeditiously.
- All official papers and documents must be processed
and completed within a reasonable time from the
preparation thereof and must contain, as far as
practicable, not more than three (3) signatories
therein. In the absence of duly authorized signatories,
the official next-in-rank or officer in charge shall sign
for and in their behalf.
(d) Act immediately on the public's personal
transactions. - All public officials and employees
must attend to anyone who wants to avail himself of
the services of their offices and must, at all times, act
promptly and expeditiously.
(e) Make documents accessible to the public. - All
public documents must be made accessible to, and
readily available for inspection by, the public within
reasonable working hours.
Prohibited Acts and Transactions
In addition to acts and omissions of public officials
and employees now prescribed in the Constitution
and existing laws, the following shall constitute
prohibited acts and transactions of any public official
and employee and are hereby declared to be
unlawful:
(a) Financial and material interest. - Public officials
and employees shall not, directly or indirectly, have
any financial or material interest in any transaction
requiring the approval of their office.
(b) Outside employment and other activities
related thereto. - Public officials and employees
during their incumbency shall not:
(1) Own, control, manage or accept employment as
officer, employee, consultant, counsel, broker, agent,
trustee or nominee in any private enterprise
regulated, supervised or licensed by their office
unless expressly allowed by law;
(2) Engage in the private practice of their profession
unless authorized by the Constitution or law,
provided, that such practice will not conflict or tend to
conflict with their official functions; or
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
(3) Recommend any person to any position in a
private enterprise which has a regular or pending
official transaction with their office.
These prohibitions shall continue to apply for a period
of one (1) year after resignation, retirement, or
separation from public office, except in the case of
subparagraph (b) (2) above, but the professional
concerned cannot practice his profession in
connection with any matter before the office he used
to be with, in which case the one-year prohibition shall
likewise apply.
(c) Disclosure and/or misuse of confidential
information. - Public officials and employees shall
not use or divulge, confidential or classified
information officially known to them by reason of their
office and not made available to the public, either:
(1) To further their private interests, or give undue
advantage to anyone; or
(2) To prejudice the public interest.
(d) Solicitation or acceptance of gifts. - Public
officials and employees shall not solicit or accept,
directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor,
entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value
from any person in the course of their official duties or
in connection with any operation being regulated by,
or any transaction which may be affected by the
functions of their office.
Divestment. - A public official or employee shall avoid
conflicts of interest at all times. When a conflict of
interest arises, he shall resign from his position in any
private business enterprise within thirty (30) days from
his assumption of office and/or divest himself of his
shareholdings or interest within sixty (60) days from
such assumption.
The same rule shall apply where the public official or
employee is a partner in a partnership. The
requirement of divestment shall not apply to those who
serve the Government in an honorary capacity nor to
laborers and casual or temporary workers.
Code of Good Governance for the Profession in
the Philippines
• This Code is adopted by the Professional
Regulation Commission (PRC) and the 42
Professional Regulatory Boards to cover an
environment of good governance in which all
Filipino professionals shall perform their tasks.
• While each profession may adopt and enforce
its own code of good governance and code of
ethics, it is generally recognized that there is a
general commonality among the various
codes.
• This Code which covers the common principles
underlying the codes of various professions
could be used by all professionals who face
critical ethical questions in their work.
General Principle of Professional Conduct
Professionals are required not only to have an ethical
commitment, a personal resolve to act ethically, but
also have both ethical awareness and ethical
competency. Ethical awareness refers to the ability to
discern between right and wrong, while ethical
competency pertains to the ability to engage in sound
moral reasoning and consider carefully the implications
of alternative actions.
Specific Principle of Professional Conduct
1. Service to Others
2. Integrity and Objectivity
3. Professional Competence
4. Solidarity and Teamwork
5. Social and Civic Responsibility
6. Global Competitiveness
7. Equality of All Professions
Code of Ethics
Board of Criminology
Article I
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY OF REGISTERED
CRIMINOLOGIST
a. The primary responsibility of every person
admitted to the practice of Criminology as a Registered
Criminologist is to bear faithful allegiance to the
Republic of the Philippines and be loyal to his
profession. They shall accept as a sacred obligation
and responsibility as citizens to support the
Constitution of the Philippines and as a Registered
Criminologist to defend the principles of liberty as
defined in the Constitution and Laws.
b. As a Registered Criminologist, they shall strive
to improve their effectiveness by diligent study and
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
sincere attention to improvement and welcome the
opportunity to disseminate practical and useful
information relating to matters accruing to the benefit
of public safety and welfare.
Article 2
LIMITATION OF AUTHORITY
a. The first duty of a criminologist as upholder of
the law is to know its bounds upon him, be aware of
limitations and prescriptions and recognize the system
of government that gives to no man group or institution
absolute power. He must ensure that he is prime
defender of that system and as such must never
pervert its character.
b. They shall in the performance of their duty be
just, impartial and reasonable, never according anyone
more preferential treatment than another. They shall
recognize the limitation of their authority and at no time
use the power of their profession for personal
advantage.
Article 3
PRIVATE CONDUCT
a. The Registered Criminologist must be mindful
of his special identification by the public as an upholder
of the law. He must never be lax in conduct or manner
in private life, express disrespect for the law, nor seek
to gain special privilege that would be reflective upon
the profession. He must so conduct his private life that
the public will regard him as an example of stability
fidelity and morality.
b. He must strive to elevate the standing of the
profession in the public mind, strengthen public
confidence in law enforcement, develop and maintain
complete support and cooperation of the public and
insure the effectiveness by encouraging complete
cooperation of members for their mutual benefit.
Article 4
CONDUCT TOWARDS THE PUBLIC
a. The Criminologists remind at all times that
dignity, fairness and a genuine willingness to help are
essential to their public image and their ability to do a
good job.
b. The Criminologists mindful of their
responsibility to the whole community, deal with
individuals of the community in a manner calculated to
instill re spect for its laws and their profession.
c. They shall be habitually courteous and accept
their responsibility by being punctual and expeditious
in their engagements and duties. They shall regard
their profession as a public trust and in the discharge
of their duties, bear constantly in mind their obligation
to serve the public efficiently and effectively.
Article 5
ATTITUDE TOWARDS PROFESSION
a. The criminologists shall strive to make the best
application of science to the solution of crime, by
diligent study and sincere attention to self
improvement, and in the fields of human relationships,
strive for effective leadership and public influence in
matters affecting public safety.
b. He shall appreciate the importance and
responsibility of his profession as an honorable one
rendering valuable service to his community and
country. They shall strive to attain certain of the most
withering cross examination particularly from fellow
criminologists and associates.
c. He shall avoid outside influence from
overzealous and overanxious clients and his findings
shall be based solely and entirely on logical and
scientific deduction derived from a fair and impartial
examination personally performed by him.
d. He must never lose sight of the important fact
that he should no only work for the identification,
apprehension and conviction of criminals, but must
strive with greater if not equal vigor to clear the
innocent.
Article 6
ATTITUDE TOWARDS FELLOW CRIMINOLOGISTS
a. The Criminologists shall strive constantly to
improve professional standing of Criminology through
association with others in the profession and keeping
abreast with the fast moving world of science and
technology through constant research and
development.
b. He shall cooperate fully with fellow
criminologists regardless of personal prejudice. He
should however, be assured that such action is proper
and in accordance with law and guard against the sue
of this office or person, knowingly or unknowingly in
any improper or illegal action. He always bear in mind
at all times that it isnot sufficient to be proficient in
oneÕs work, he must also have a high sense of justice,
a belief in the dignity and worth of all men and a proper
motivation and attitude. He must possess a sense of
dedication to his profession and a sense of duty and
obligation to his fellowmen.
c. He shall cooperate with fellow criminologists
and public officials to the end that the safety and
general welfare of the public will be assured, never
permitting jealousies or personal differences to
influence their professional duties and obligations.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
Article 7
CODE OF ETHICS
The universally accepted Code of Ethics for Law
Enforcement shall be temporarily adopted pending
formulation of a more specific code that embraces all
aspects of Criminology.
TOPIC 3: POLICE ETHICS
Foundation of Police Ethics
Professional conduct and ethical standards and a high
degree of honesty are more essential for officers and
members of Philippine National Police (PNP) than for
any member of the society. This is so, because they
are entrusted with the enforcement of the rules,
regulations and ordinances created
City/Municipality and the laws of the land created by
the Congress that guide the conduct of society. A
policemen’s violation or infraction thereof, or his failure
to enforce it, dishonor the law and the authority he
represents.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
1. Police Ethics- It is the practical science that treats
the principle of human morality and duty as applied
to law enforcement.
2. Moonlighting- An act of a member of the PNP
pursuing or following any calling or occupation, or
the act of engaging in any business, which includes
but not limited to all activities, jobs, work, and similar
functions, performed, engaged in or undertaking by
him, in or off duty hours with or without
compensation, which is inconsistent or incompatible
with the PNP duties or functions. Such as a bouncer,
security guard, driver, bodyguard, confidential agent,
watchman and any other occupations of similar
nature, in any enterprise or establishment, public or
private, which will prejudice the interest of law
enforcement and public safety.
3. Ethical standard – it refers to the set of conducts
and behavior governing a group, a class or
organization.
4. Police customs and social decorum – a set of
norms and standards practiced by members during
social and other functions.
5. Nonfeasance/Neglect of Duty- It is the omission
of some act, which ought to be performed. It is the
omission or refusal without sufficient excuse, to
perform an act or duty, which as a peace officer’s
legal obligation to perform.
6. Misfeasance/Irregularities in the Performance of
Duty- It is the improper performance of some act
which might lawfully be done.
7. Malfeasance- It is the performance of some act
which ought not to be done. It is the doing either
through ignorance, inattention or malice, of that
which the officer had no legal right to do at all, as
when he acts without any authority whatsoever, or
exceeds, ignores, or abuses his powers.
8. Incompetency- It is the manifest lack of adequate
ability and fitness for the satisfactory performance
of police duties. This has reference to any physical
by and intellectual quality, the lack of which
substantially incapacitates one to perform the duties
of peace officers.
9. Oppression- Imports an act of cruelty, severity,
unlawful execution, or excessive use of authority.
10. Dishonesty- It is the concealment or distortion
of truth in a manner of a fact relevant to one’s office
or connected with the performance of his duties.
11. 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.
12. Public official- Includes elective and appointive
officials and employees, permanent or temporary,
whether in the career or non-career service,
including military and police personnel, whether or
not they receive compensation or not, regardless of
amount.
13. Public Officer or Employee- It means any
person holding any public office or employment by
virtue of an appointment, election or contract, and
any person holding any office or employment, by
appointment or contract in any state-owned or
controlled corporation.
14. Gift- It refers to the thing or right disposed
gratuitously, or any act of liberality in favor of
another who accepts it, and shall include a
simulated sale or ostensibly onerous disposition
thereof. It shall not include an unsolicited gift of
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
nominal or insignificant value not given
anticipation of, or in exchange for a favor.
ETHICS IN THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE
(PNP)
The PNP Professional Conduct and Ethical
Standard are based from existing laws covering
public servants as embodied in the Constitution,
Revised Penal Code, RA 6713 (The code of
Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials
and Employees), and other related statutes. The
ethical conduct and standard of the PNP is further
enhanced to fit in their nature of their creation as
embodied in the Constitution which is civilian in
nature but military in manner.
FIVE PILLARS TOWARDS AN ETHICAL PNP
MEMBER
1. Background of the applicants – this includes the
qualification like educational attainment
morality.
2. Type of training – strengthening the behavior of
the selected applicant is believed to be the objective
of the PNP training.
3. Response to training – trainees’ obedience to
legal orders is indispensable in undergoing the
training.
4. Determination – trainees’ determination to pursue
the required training.
5. Ability to rise when fall – It is but natural to fail but
what matter is the ability to rise especially when put
in hot water. Facing the consequences of our action
is a sign of maturity.
CANNONS OF POLICE ETHICS
1. Primordial Police Responsibility
- The primary objective of police is the
prevention of crime.
2. Limitation of Police Authority
- As an upholder of the law, policemen must
know the limitation in enforcing the law, thus:
a. He must be aware of the
limitations which the people, through law,
have placed him.
in b. He must recognize the center of
the democratic system of government, which
gives person or group of persons, absolute
power.
c. He must insure that he does not
pervert its true character.
3. Knowledge of the Law and other Responsibility
- The policeman shall assiduously apply
himself to the principles of the laws, which he is
sworn to apply.
a. He will make certain of his
responsibilities in the particular field of
enforcement, seeking aid of his superior in
matters technically or in principles not clear
to him
b. He shall make special effort to
fully understand his relationship with law
enforcement agencies, particularly on
matters of jurisdiction, both geographically
and substantively.
and
4. Use of proper Means to Obtain Proper Ends
a. The policeman shall be mindful of
his responsibility to have strict selection of
methods in discharging the duty of his office.
b. Violation of law or public safety
and property on the part of the officer are
intrinsically wrong. They are self-defeating if
they instill in the public mind.
c. The employment of Illegal
methods, no matter how worthy the end, is
certain to encourage disrespect for the law
and its officers, If the law is to be honored, it
must first be honored by those who enforce
it.
d. it is the proper performance of
duty not the nobleness of the objective or
mission which should guide every police
officer.
5. Cooperation with Public Officials
a. The policeman shall cooperate
fully with other public officials in the
performance or authorized duties,
regardless of party affiliation or personal
prejudices.
b. He shall be meticulous in law,
however, in assuring himself as property,
under the law, such actions shall guard
against the use of his office or person
whether knowingly or in any improper or
illegal action.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
6. Proper Conduct and Behavior
a. The policeman shall be mindful of
his special identification by the public as an
upholder of law.
b. The community and the service
require that the policeman leads the life of
decent and honorable person, following the
career of policeman gives no special pre-
requisite.
c. being a law enforcement officer is
a noble profession, it follows that every law
enforcer must think, act and speak with
decency and appropriately.
7. Conduct towards the Community
a. The policeman shall be mindful of
his responsibility to the
community
b. He shall deal with individuals of
the community in the manner calculated to
instill respect for its law.
c. He shall conduct his official life in
a manner that will inspire confidence and
trust.
d. He will do neither personal
preference nor prejudice but rather a duly
appointed officer of the law discharging his
sworn obligation.
8. Conduct in Arresting Law Violator
a. Policeman shall use his powers
to arrest in accordance with the law and with
due regard to the rights of the citizen
concerned.
b. He shall, at all times, have a clear
appreciation of his responsibilities and
limitation regarding the detention of the
accused.
c. He shall conduct himself in such
a manner as will minimize the possibility of
having to use force.
d. He shall cultivate a dedication to
the people and the equitable upholding of
the law whether in the handling of the
accused or law-abiding citizen.
9. Firmness in Refusing Gifts or Favors
a. Policeman representing the
government bears heavy responsibility of
maintaining, in his conduct, the honor and
integrity of all government institution.
b. He shall guard against placing
himself in a Position in which the public can
reasonably assume that special
consideration is being given.
c. He shall be firm in refusing gifts,
favors or gratitude, large or small, which can
be public mind, be interpreted as capable of
influencing his judgment in the discharge of
his duties.
10. Attitude towards Police Profession
a. Policeman shall regard the best
possible of his duties as a public trust and
recognize his responsibilities as a public
servant.
b. He shall strive to make the best
possible application of science to the
selection of the crime and in the field of
human relation.
c. He shall strive for effecting
leadership and public influence in matters
affecting public safety.
d. He shall appreciate the
importance and responsibility of his office,
and hold police work to be an honorable
profession rendering valuable service to his
community.
e. Through study and experience, a
police officer can acquire the high level of
knowledge and competence that is
essential for the efficient and effective
performance of duty. The acquisition of
knowledge is a never-ending process of
personal and professional development that
should be pursued constantly.
11. Impartial Presentation of Evidence
a. Policeman shall be concerned
equally in the prosecution of the accused or
for the defense of the innocent
b. He shall ascertain what kind of
evidence and shall present such evidence
impartially and without malice.
c. He shall ignore social, political
and all other distinction among the person
involved, strengthening the tradition of
reliability and integrity of an officer’s word.
Who is a Filipino Policeman?
- A Filipino policeman is a protector and a friend of
the people.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
- His badge is the symbol of the citizen’s faith and
trust, his uniform a mirror of decorum and integrity.
- His whole human person an oblation of enduring
love for homeland, fellowmen and God.
- A Filipino policeman emulates the valor of Lapu-
lapu, serenity of Rizal, the leadership of Aguinaldo,
the courage of Bonifacio, the idealism of Del Pilar,
the wisdom of Mabini and the fortitude of Gomez,
Burgos and Zamora.
- A Filipino policeman has oath for his republic to
uphold: to defend the constitution, honor the flag,
obey the laws and duly constituted authorities. He
has covenant with his people to comply: to
safeguard and protect them even beyond the call of
duty. And he has a legacy for his family to fulfill: to
bequeath unto them the one and only treasure of his
life – an unblemished name.
The Policeman and his Badge
Pointedly enough, it is precisely upon
grounds of reliability and unreliability, fidelity or
infidelity in the performance of his duties that the
badge of a policeman assumes paramount
significance.
This is because the badge could either be
the symbol of the citizen’s faith and trust in the
policeman or the harbinger of their contempt and
derision for him, all depending upon efficiency or
inefficiency in the execution of the policeman’s task
or mission.
But whatever it may be, the salient point
remains that the policeman’s badge stands out as
the embodiment of his entire personality, both as a
citizen and a public servant, yes, a badge that
beckons the policeman to commit himself to the
democratic way of life and, even more, to maintain
the principle of public accountability.
Furthermore, the badge flashes incessantly
to the mind and heart of the policeman his
inescapable concern, commitment and obligation to
uphold at all times the constitution and be loyal to
his country, people and organization over and
above loyalty to any other person or organization.
The Policeman and his Uniform
The gestures and attitudes of internalizing
and externalizing could aptly project to the fore the
fierce relevance and significance of the uniform of
the policeman.
This is because what a policeman has
internalized or ingested in terms of discipline,
conduct, insight and decorum is externalized or
unfolded by his uniform on points of among others,
physical appearance, social graces, professional
bearing, and personal comportment.
More importantly, the uniform bespeaks not
only of the authority and prerogatives of the peace
keeper and law enforcer donning or wearing such
uniform but, equally worthwhile, the intellectual,
moral and spiritual cast and mold of the person
inside that uniform. Just as what abounds in the
heart is spoken by the mouth, so what values and
virtues are acquired and ingested, or not ingested
and acquired, as the case may be, are bound to
have a repercussion or reflection on his uniform.
If a policeman is neglectful or remiss in his
interior breeding, upbringing, and posturing, there
surges the imminent and potential likelihood that
such shortcomings would find shape and form in his
untidy, sloppy and repulsive uniform.
Indeed, a well-meaning and disciplined
member of the force realizes without being told that
the citizenry looks upon and discerns the policeman
as distinctively a man among gentlemen and a
gentleman among men, a circumstance and factor
that prompts such citizenry to hail as a gratifying
sight when the men and women in the police service
wear their uniform properly wherever they may be.
The Policeman and his Oath
In raising their hand in solemn attestation
and affirmation of their oath, our new breed of peace
keepers and law enforcers, imbued and invigorated
as they are with their collateral concern and
commitment to socio-economic development and
nation- building, have plunged themselves, in
consortium with the other relevant agencies and
instrumentalities of the Republic, into a vast
battlefield on which to wage constructive wars.
It is with greater relevance to have to point
out just the same the sacrificial implication of the
oath engendering a beatific irony, if we are to
consider the fact that while on one hand the member
of the police service is impliedly exhorted under his
oath to love his country and endear his family, on
the other hand, when, in response to the same oath,
the supreme cause of his official duty exacts upon
him to offer his very life, he cannot help but leave
behind him forever his endeared family and his
beloved country.
This is because this sacrificial human victim
is very much a part and parcel of one profession, the
police profession, whose oblation to GOD, country
and people finds its august limits only in death.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
To the present-day members of the nation’s
police service, the oath of loyalty to GOD, country
and people could also serve as reminder of their
comrades who died in line of duty or otherwise met
their untimely demise in the hands of the enemies
of societies, yes, offering their lives so that their
countrymen could live in peace, solace, and security
that they have learned to enjoy and cherish.
TOPIC 4: PNP ETHICAL DOCTRINE
POLICE OFFICER’S CREED AND STANDS ON
BASIC ISSUES
Section 1. 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:
• love of God
• respect for authority
• selfless love and service for people
• sanctity of marriage, and family life
• responsible dominion and stewardship over
material things
• truthfulness
Section 2.The Police Officer’s Creed
2.1 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.
2.2 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.
2.3 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.
2.4 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.
2.5 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.
2.6 I believe in the wisdom of truthfulness. I
must be trustworthy and I shall uphold the truth at all
times.
Section 3. 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:
3.1 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.
3.2 Career Management, the Key to
Professionalism – The Proper implementation of the
PNP’s Career Management will greatly enhance the
personnel professionalization process with regards
to procurement, training, promotion, assignment,
placement, awards and retirement. The PNP shall
formulate a stringent policy and strictly implement
the human resources development system,
compatible to the equitable distribution of
procurement, fair promotion, rationalized approach
in assignment, skill development, immediate grant of
reward and award, and decent living upon
retirement.
3.3 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.
These attributes must therefore be one of the
primary bases for consideration in the selection of
personnel for employment and deployment
purposes.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
3.4 Equality In the Service – There shall be
judicious and equitable distribution of opportunity to
prove one’s worth in the police service. The problem
on inequity thru class orientation and factionalism,
both real and perceived, premised on favored
assignment, inequitable opportunity of training,
unfair granting of promotion, and untimely awarding
of achievements, will create an atmosphere of
demoralization. The result is inefficiency and lack of
teamwork to the detriment of the organization. It
behooves. Therefore, on the PNP leadership
address the situation. The civilian character of the
organization requires adherence to the rule on merit
and fitness system and to dissociate the above
process from class orientation and factionalism.
3.5 Delicadeza- In consonance with the
requirements of honor and integrity in the PNP, all
members must have the moral courage to sacrifice
self-interest in keeping with the time-honored
principle of delicadeza.
3.6 Police Lifestyle- The PNP shall promote
and maintain a lifestyle for its members which the
public will find credible and respectable. The public
expects a police officer to live a simple and dignified
life. They must be free from greed corruption and
exploitation.
3.7 Political Patronage- PNPP members
shall inhibit themselves from soliciting political
patronage on matters pertaining to assignment,
award,, training and promotion.
3.8 Setting Example- All PNP members
shall set good example to their subordinates and
follow good example from the superiors.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL
STANDARDS
Section 1. Standard of Police Professionalism
PNP members shall perform their duties with integrity,
intelligence and competence in the application of
specialized skills and technical knowledge with
excellence and expertise.
Section 2. Police Professional Conduct
2.1 Commitment to Democracy- Uniformed PNP
members shall commit themselves to the democratic
way of life and values and maintain the principle of
public accountability. They shall at all times uphold
the Constitution and be loyal to our country, people
and organization, above their loyalty to any person.
2.2 Commitment to Public Interest- PNP
members shall always uphold public interest over
and above personal interest. All government
properties, resources and powers of their respective
offices must be employed and used effectively,
honestly and efficiently, particularly to avoid wastage
of public funds and revenues. PNP members must
avoid and prevent the “malversation” of human
resources, government time, property and funds.
2.3 Non-Partisanship- PNP members shall
provide services to everyone without discrimination
regardless of party affiliation in accordance with
existing laws and regulations.
2.4 Physical Fitness and Health- PNP members
shall strive to be physically and mentally fit and in
good health at all times. Toward this end, they shall
undergo regular physical exercises and annual
medical examination in any PNP Hospital or Medical
facility, and actively participate in the Physical
Fitness and Sports Development Program of the
PNP.
2.5 Secrecy Discipline- PNP members shall
guard the confidentiality of classified information
against unauthorized disclosure, including
confidential aspects of official business, special
orders, communications and other documents roster
or any portion thereof, contents of criminal records,
identities of persons who may have given
information to the police in confidence and other
classified information or intelligence material.
2.6 Social Awareness- PNP members and their
immediate family members shall be encouraged to
actively get involved in religious, social and civic
activities to enhance the image of the organization
without affecting their official duties.
2.7 Non- Solicitation of Patronage- PNP
members shall seek self-improvement through
career development and shall not directly or
indirectly solicit influence or recommendation from
politicians, high ranking government officials
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
prominent citizens, persons affiliated with civic or
religious organizations with regards to their
assignments, promotions, transfer or those of other
members of the force, nor shall they initiate any
petition to be prepared and presented by citizens in
their behalf. Moreover, they shall advise their
immediate relatives not to interfere in the activities of
the police service particularly in the assignment and
reassignment of personnel.
2.8 Proper Care and Use of Public Property-
PNP members shall promote and maintain sense of
responsibility in the protection, proper care and
judicious disposition and use of public property
issued for their official use or entrusted to their care
and custody just like “ a good father of their family”.
When the Commander/Director is relieved from his
post, all properties/equipment belonging to the
government must be turned-over to the incoming. A
committee for the purpose shall be proper. Hence, it
is a taboo for outgoing Commander/Director to
detach, remove and bring home or to his new
assignment properties which do not personally
belong to him.
2.9 Respect for Human Rights- In the
performance of duty, PNP members shall respect
and protect human dignity and uphold the human
rights of all persons. No member shall inflict,
instigate or tolerate extra-judicial killings, arbitrary
arrests, any act of torture or other cruel, inhuman or
degrading treatment or punishment and shall not
invoke superior orders or exceptional circumstances
such as a state –of-war, a threat to national security,
internal political instability or any public emergency
as a justification for committing such human rights
violations.
2.10 Devotion to Duty- PNP members shall
perform their duties with dedication thoroughness,
efficiency enthusiasm, determination, and manifest
concern for public welfare, and shall refrain from
engaging in any activity which shall be conflict with
their duties as public servants.
2.11. Conservation of Natural Resources- PNP
members shall help in the development and
conservation of our natural resources for ecological
balance and posterity as these are the inalienable
heritage of our people.
2.12 Discipline- PNP members shall conduct
themselves properly at all times in keeping with the
rules and regulations of the organization.
2.13 Loyalty- PNP members shall be loyal to the
Constitution and the police service as manifested by
their loyalty to their superiors peers and
subordinates as well.
2.14 Obedience to Superiors- PNP members
shall obey lawful orders of and be courteous to
superior officers and other appropriate authorities
within the chain of command. They shall readily
accept whenever they are assigned anywhere in the
country. Therefore, it is taboo for any personnel to
petition in court or in any public forum his
assignment.
2.15 Command Responsibility- In accordance
with the Doctrine on Command Responsibility,
immediate Commanders/ Directors shall be
responsible for the effective supervision, control and
direction of their personnel and shall see to it that all
government resources shall be managed, expended
or utilized in accordance with laws and regulations
and safeguard against losses thru illegal or improper
disposition.
Section 3. The Ethical Standards
Ethical standards shall refer to established and
generally accepted moral values. Ethical acts to be
observed are the following:
3.1 Morality- PNP members shall adhere to high
standards of morality and decency and shall set
good examples for others to follow. In no instance
during their terms of office, among other things, shall
they be involved as owners, operators, managers or
investors in any house of ill-repute or illegal
gambling den or other places devoted to vices, nor
they shall patronize such places unless on official
duty, and tolerate operations of such establishments
in their respective areas of responsibilities. They
shall be faithful to their lawfully wedded spouses.
3.2 Judicious Use of Authority – PNP members
shall exercise proper and legitimate use of authority
in the performance of duty.
3.3 Integrity – PNP members shall not allow
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
themselves to be victims of corruption and dishonest
practices in accordance with the provisions of RA
6713 and other applicable laws.
3.4 Justice – PNP members shall strive
constantly to respect the rights of others so that they
can fulfill their duties and exercise their rights as
human beings, parents, children, citizens, workers,
leaders, or in other capacities and to see to it that
others do likewise.
3.5 Humility – PNP members shall recognize the
fact that they are public servants and not the masters
of the people and towards this end, they should
perform their duties without attracting attention or
expecting the applause of others.
3.6 Orderliness – PNP members shall follow
original procedures in accomplishing tasks assigned
to them to minimize waste in the use of time, money
and effort.
3.7 Perseverance – Once a decision is made,
PNP members shall take legitimate means to
achieve the goal even in the face of internal or
external difficulties, and despite anything which
might weaken their resolve in the course of time.
CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS
Section 1. General Statement
The PNP adopts the generally acceptable customs
and traditions based on the desirable practices of the
police service. These shall serve to inspire PNP
members as the organization endeavors to attain its
goals and objectives.
Section 2. Definition of Terms:
2.1 Customs - Established usage or social
practices carried on by tradition that have obtained
the force of law.
2.2 Traditions – Bodies of beliefs, stories,
customs and usages handed down from generation
to generation with the effect of an unwritten law.
2.3 Courtesy – A manifestation of expression of
consideration and respect for others.
2.4 Ceremony – A formal act or set of formal
acts established by customs or authority as proper
to special occasion.
2.5 Social Decorum – A set of norms and
standards practiced by members during social
activities and other functions.
Section 3. Police Customs on Courtesy
The following are customs on courtesy in the PNP:
3.1 Salute – Salute is the usual greetings
rendered by uniformed members upon meeting and
recognizing person entitled to a salute.
3.2 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.
3.3 Address/Title – Junior in rank address senior
members who are entitled to salute with the word
“Sir” or “Ma’am”. All Police Commissioned Officers
shall be addressed sir or ma’am by Police Non-
Commissioned Officers and Non-Uniformed
Personnel.
3.3 Courtesy Calls – The following are the
customs on courtesy calls:
3.3.1. 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.
3.3.2. Christmas Call – PNP members pay
a Christmas Call on their local executives in their
respective areas of responsibility.
3.3.3. 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.
3.3.4. 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.
3.3.5. 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.
3.4 Courtesy of the Post – The host unit extend
hospitality to visiting personnel who pay respect to
the command or unit.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
3.5 Rank Has –Its –Own Privilege (RHIP) – PNP
members recognize the practice that different ranks
carry with them corresponding privileges.
Section 4. Police Customs on Ceremonies
4.1. 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.
4.2 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.
4.3 Half-Mast – The flag is raised at half-mast in
deference to deceased uniformed members of the
command.
4.4 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.
4.5 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.
4.6 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./
4.7 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.
4.8 Wedding Ceremony -- During marriage of
PNP members, a ceremony is conducted with
participants in uniform and swords drawn.
4.9 Anniversary – The birth or institutional
establishment of a command or unit is
commemorated in an Anniversary Ceremony.
5.1. Proper Attire – PNP members always wear
appropriate and proper attire in conformity with the
occasion.
5.2. Table Manners – PNP members observe
table etiquette at all times.
5.3 Social Graces – PNP members conduct
themselves properly in dealing with people during
social functions.
5.4 Uniform/Appearance – The public looks
upon a PNP member as distinctively a man among
men. It is a welcome sight when PNP members wear
their uniform properly wherever they may be.
Bulging stomach is a taboo in the uniformed service.
Since disciplined PNP members are best
exemplified by those who are neat in appearance
and wearing the prescribed uniform, they must
therefore observe the following:
5.4.1. Wearing of prescribed uniform.
5.4.2 Adherence to haircut prescribed by
rules & regulations.
5.5 Manner of Wlking- Every PNP Member is
expected to walk with pride and dignity.
Section 6. Other Police Customs:
6.1 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.
6.2 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.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
6.3 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.
6.4 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.
6.5 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.
Section 7. Police Tradition
The following are police traditions:
7.1 Spiritual Beliefs- PNP members are
traditionally religious and God-loving person. They
attend religious services together with the members
of their family.
7.2 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.
7.3 Patriotism- The PNP members are
traditionally patriotic by nature. They manifest their
love of country with a pledge of allegiance to the flag
and a vow to defend the constitution.
7.4 Discipline- The discipline of 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.
7.5 Gentlemanliness-PNP members are upright
in character, gentle in manners, dignified in
appearance, and sincere in their concern to
fellowmen.
7.6 Word of Honor- PNP members’ word is their
bond. They stand by and commit to uphold it.
7.7 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.
7.8 Loyalty- PNP members are traditionally loyal
to the organization, country and people as borne by
history and practice.
7.9 Camaraderie- The binding spirit that
enhances teamwork and cooperation in the police
organization, extending to the people they serve., in
manifested by the PNP members’ deep commitment
and concern for one another.
POLICE OFFICER’S PLEDGE (POP) PRINCIPLES
AND CONDUCT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT
OFFICIALS
Section 1. The Police Officer’s Pledge
1. I will love and serve God, my country and
people;
2. I will uphold the Constitution and obey legal
orders of the duly constituted authorities;
3. I will oblige myself to maintain a high standard
of morality and professionalism;
4. I will respect the customs and traditions of the
police service; and
5. I will live a decent and virtuous life to serve as
an example to others.
Section 2. Forum to Recite
The Police Officer’s Pledge should be recited
during the following occasions:
1. Flag raising and flag retreat ceremonies,
jointly with the Pledge of Allegiance to the
Flag (Panunumpa sa Watawat).
2. PNP Training/course opening and closing
ceremonies.
3. Seminars on moral values internalization.
4. Other ceremonies.
TOPIC 5: PNP ETHICS AND VALUES FORMATION
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
Importance of Ethics and Values
Ethics is an indispensable knowledge. Without ethical
perception, man is only an animal. Without values,
man as a rational being is a failure.
The Six (6) Core Moral Values:
1. LOVE OF GOD – give God what is due Him
and develop the moral virtue of religion
through adoration, prayer and obedience.
2. RESPECT OF AUTHORITY – treat freedom
with a sense of self- determination and
personal responsibility, and as a social being,
exercise intelligently obedience.
3. SELFLESS LOVE OF PEOPLE – respect
human life, respect the human body, learn to
give, to give oneself, and to love.
4. CHASTITY – respect the dignity of human
sexuality by practicing chastity in marriage
through sexual love that is romantic,
procreative, exclusive and lasting, or if
unmarried, by having no experience of sexual
pleasure.
5. RESPONSIBLE DOMINION OVER
MATERIAL THINGS - should not be
dominated by it (detachment) and
should share it with his fellowmen bearing in
mind that the material world is limited (scarce).
6. TRUTHFULNESS – never telling what is not
true (untruth) because it destroys the
foundation of social life which is based on
mutual trust.
The Six (6) Core Work Values:
1. INDUSTRIOUSNESS – what a person wants
to, looks for, keeps busy, and strives to work
well.
2. SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY – what a
person does is dependent on him and he puts
his will and intellect to his job
(creativity/initiative) and is held accountable
for it.
3. ORDER (SENSE OF TIME) – prioritizes the
use of time, values his time, “first things first”.
4. COLLABORATION – fosters teamwork and
solidarity for unity.
5. DETERMINATION – a person possesses
qualities of perseverance, patience and
strength to cope with obstacles, difficulties and
trials.
6. SERVICE – performing duties or work for
another, a person or an institution that brings
about benefits and/or results.
Significance of Ethics and Values in Police Work
1. Immense Powers of the Police.
2. Without an ethical perspective, a police
officer becomes a tyrant.
3. The Social Contract. The idea that police
officers must display a higher standard of ethical
behavior than that of the "average citizen" was
originated by French philosopher Jean-Jacques
Rousseau in The Social Contract (1762), John
Locke in Two Treatises on Civil Government
(1690), and Thomas Hobbes in Leviathan
(1651).
4. Police Officers as Role
Models. August Vollmer (recognized as the
Father of Police Professionalism) once said
that “The average citizen expects the police
officer to have the wisdom of Solomon, the
courage of David, the strength of Samson,
the patience of Job, the leadership of Moses,
the faith of Daniel, the diplomacy of Lincoln,
the tolerance of the Carpenter of Nazareth,
the kindness of the Good Samaritan, and
finally, an intimate knowledge of every
branch of natural, biological, and social
sciences. If he possesses all these qualities,
then, he MIGHT be a good policeman.”
Impact of Filipino Culture on Ethics and Values
Formation
Positive Traits of the Filipino
1. Pakikipagkapwa-Tao. Filipinos are open to
others and feel one with others. We regard
others with dignity and respect and deal with
them as fellow human beings.
Pakikipagkapwa-tao is manifested in a basic
sense of justice and fairness and in concern
for others. It is demonstrated in the Filipino's
ability to empathize with others, in helpfulness
and generosity in times of need (pakikiramay),
in the practice of bayanihan or mutual
assistance, and in the famous Filipino
hospitality.
Filipinos possess sensitivity to people's
feelings (pakikiramdam), pagtitiwala or trust
and a sense of gratitude or utang na loob.
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
2. Family Orientation. Filipinos possess a
genuine and deep love for family which
includes not simply spouse and children,
parents and siblings, but also grandparents,
aunts, uncles, cousins, godparents and other
ceremonial relatives.
3. Joy and Humor. Filipinos have a cheerful
and fun-loving approach to life and its ups and
downs. We have a pleasant disposition, a
sense of humor and a propensity for
happiness that contribute not only to the
Filipino charm but also to the indomitability of
the Filipino spirit.
4. Flexibility, Adaptability and Creativity.
Filipinos have a great capacity to adjust and
to adapt to circumstances and the
surrounding environment, both physical and
social.
5. Hard Work and Industry. Filipinos have the
capacity for hard work given proper
conditions. The desire to raise one's standard
of living and to possess the essentials of a
decent life for one's family, combined with the
right opportunities and incentives, makes the
Filipino work very hard.
6. Faith and Religiosity. Filipinos have a deep
faith in God. Our innate religiosity enables us
to comprehend and genuinely accept reality in
the context of God’s will and plan.
7. Ability to Survive. Filipinos have an ability to
survive, which is manifested in our capacity
for endurance despite difficult times and in our
ability to get by on so very little.
Negative Traits of the Filipino
1. Extreme Personalism. Filipinos view the
world in terms of personal relationships and
the extent to which one is able to personally
relate to things and people determines the
recognition of their existence and the value
given to them. There is no separation
between an objective task and emotional
involvement.
2. Extreme Family Centeredness. While
concern for the family is one of the Filipino's
greatest strengths, in the extreme it becomes
a serious flaw. Excessive concern for the
family creates an in-group to which the
Filipino is fiercely loyal to the detriment of
concern for the larger community or for the
common good.
3. Lack of Discipline. The Filipino's lack of
discipline encompasses several related
characteristics. We have a casual and relaxed
attitude towards time and space which
manifests itself in lack of precision and
compulsiveness, in poor time management
and in procrastination. We are impatient and
unable to delay gratification or reward,
resulting in the use of shortcuts, in skirting the
rules (the palusot syndrome) and in
foolhardiness. We are guilty of ningas cogon,
starting out projects with full vigor and interest
which abruptly die down leaving things
unfinished.
4. Passivity and Lack of initiative. Filipinos are
generally passive and lacking in initiative. One
waits to be told what has to be done. There is
strong reliance on others (e.g., leaders,
government) to do things for us.
5. Kanya-Kanya Syndrome. Filipinos have a
selfish, self-serving attitude that generates a
feeling of envy and competitiveness toward
others, particularly one's peers who seem to
have gained some status or prestige.
Towards them, the Filipino demonstrates the
so-called crab mentality (referring to the
tendency of crabs in a basket to pull each
other down) using the leveling instrument of
tsismis, intriga and unconstructive criticism to
bring others down. There seems to be a basic
assumption that another's gain is one's loss.
6. Lack of Self-Analysis and Self-Reflection.
There is a tendency in the Filipino to be
superficial and even somewhat flighty. In the
face of serious problems, both personal and
social, there is lack of analysis or reflection.
Five characteristics of a police officer’s job
1. The Uniform. The uniform sets the officer
apart, and it clearly identifies his or her status
as a police officer.
2. The Power. The uniformed police officer, with
the sidearm, baton, citation book, and other
trappings of office, is a walking symbol of
government power.
3. The Working Hours. In most places, police
officers work rotating shifts.
4. The Danger. Every day thousands of PNP
personnel patrol our streets. While carrying
out this function, they deal with several
issues, situations, and problems.
5. The Dirty Work. One of the most important
things police do for society is its dirty work.
The police deal with dead bodies, crimes,
crime victims, criminals, automobile accidents
and other aspects of society that most of us
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
would rather not think about. Fogelson (1977)
has suggested that the police occupation
suffers from what he calls a pariah complex.
On a somewhat broader level, Egon Bittner
(1975) suggests that because the police have
become the repository of coercive force, they
have what he termed as tainted occupation.
That is, the police can (and do) use blatant
force to accomplish their tasks in a society
that has increasingly become apathetic.
Strengths of the Filipino Police Officer
• Spiritual Beliefs
• Valor
• Patriotism
• Discipline
• Courteous
• Word of Honor
• Duty
• Loyalty
• Camaraderie
Weaknesses of the Filipino Police Officer
• Misplaced Loyalty
• Cynicism
• The Use of Force
• “The Police as Victims” Mentality
• Preferential Application of the Law
• “The Police as Untouchables”
• Rewards
• Due Process
• Lying and Deception
Challenges Facing the Filipino Police Officer
1. Political Meddling. It is also observed that
some elected officials often attempt to
influence police operations to bolster their
political positions in the community.
Sometimes, police positions are awarded
based on political patronage.
2. Corruption.
Most Common Types of Corruption in the PNP
1.) Case Fixing – The subjective imposition of
penalties or downright sabotage of the investigation
process in exchange for money or other things for
personal gain.
2.) Bribery – Bribery is the receipt of cash or a gift in
exchange for past or future assistance in avoidance
of prosecution, as by a claim that the officer is unable
to make a positive identification of a criminal or by
being in the wrong place at a time when a crime is to
occur, or by any other action that may be excused as
carelessness but not offered as proof of deliberate
miscarriage of justice. It is distinguished from
extortion by the mutual understanding in regard to
services to be performed upon the acceptance of the
gift.
3.) Extortion – Extortion the common practice of
holding "street court," where incidents such as minor
traffic tickets can be avoided with a cash payment to
the officer and no receipt given. Using this process,
police have also been known to extort money from
nightclub owners and other businesses by
threatening to enforce city health and zoning codes.
4.) Protection – The taking of money or other
rewards from vice operators or from legitimate
companies operating illegally in return for protecting
them from law enforcement activity.
5.) Recycling – The use or sale of confiscated items
and evidence, usually drugs or narcotics.
6.) Selective Enforcement – Selective enforcement
occurs when police officers exploit their officer
discretion. For example, a PNP member who releases
a suspect due to what is commonly known as “areglo”
or “balato” is in clear abuse of his or her discretion and
authority. On the reverse side, a police officer who
arrests a person simply because the latter “annoys”
him is likewise guilty of selective enforcement.
7.) Internal Pay-offs – sale of work assignments,
day-offs, holidays, vacation periods, and even
promotions.
3. Gratuity
4. Police Brutality and Abuse of Authority
TOPIC 7: POLICE COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Community Policing
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
Community policing is a philosophy that promotes
organizational strategies, which support the
systematic use of partnerships problem-solving
techniques, to proactively address the immediate
conditions that give rise to public safety issues such
as crime, social disorder and fear of crime.
Components of Community Policing
1. Community Partnerships
2. Organizational Transformation
3. Problem Solving
Community Policing revolves around the basic
principle that the Police are the Public and the Public
are the Police according to S Robert Peel, the Father
of Modern Policing and Founder of the British Police
system.
Activities in Community Policing
1. Patrol activities.
2. Organizational work. Community policing cannot
be undertaken solely by the police. It will need the
help of various sectors in the community.
• Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams
(BPATS)
• Anti-Drug Councils and Movements
• Council of Elders
• Radio and Social Networking Clubs
• Fire and Disaster Brigades
• Livelihood Cooperatives
• Sports Club
• Skills Development Club
3. Community Interaction. It is an indispensable tool
in bringing the police
Two Ways of Community Interaction
1. Area Visit
2. House Visit
The Area Visit
The area visit is a form of a patrol to be conducted
jointly by a two-person team from concerned police
stations with a team from RPSB or PPSC or by
maneuver units. Its purpose is not only to ensure the
protection of the barangay or community and its
households being visited but also to check on the
following:
• Presence of Anti-Government Movement
(AGM) armed component (as embodied in
Campaign Plan Sandugo).
• Presence of Organized Gangs and other
criminal elements (Campaign Plan
Sandigan).
• Indicators of clandestine prohibited drug
laboratory and trafficking (Oplan Sambanat).
• Indicators of flood and erosion potentials
(Saklolo)
• Illegal logging quarrying and poaching of wild
animals (Sangyaman).
• Presence of threat groups and private armed
groups (PAGS) (Sang-ingat).
THE PNP REVISED PCR MASTER PLAN
The PCR Revised Master Plan shall serve as the
National PCR Program Strategy of the PNP. It
emphasizes the capacity building and ills
development of the members of the PNP to become
catalysts, Community organizers and PCR
practitioners in support of the PNP Transformation
Plan
Two Prong Strategy of the Revised PCR Master
Plan
A. Internal Targets
a. Integrated Transformation Program
b. Capability Building and Advocacy Program
c. Economic Welfare Development Program
d. Socio-Cultural, Education, Health, Sports,
Environment and other Programs
B. External Targets
a. Service Oriented Program
b. Public Community Safety Program
c. Institutional Development Support Program
d. Community Information/Education Program
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
e. Economic Welfare Development Program
EVOLUTION OF PCR POLICY PLANS
1. Organizational Plan "SAMBAYAN"
This organization plan aims to generate community
partnerships and forge a united front for the promotion
of peace and order. It is designed to unify and
harmonize the efforts of all PCR units and to
encourage broad networking coordination and
integration of all related undertakings within the PNP
LGUs, various sectoral groups and people's
organization.
2. Information Plan "SANTINIG"
This plan sets forth the concept of operation
operational guidelines and tasks of all PNP
units/offices for a deliberate, synchronized, and
concerted effort to inform the public of the activities
programs, and accomplishments of the PNP. It is
aimed at regaining the trust, support, and cooperation
of the citizenry in contributing to the attainment of the
national government's goal of a strong republic. This
plan is also aimed at the development of a favorable
public attitude towards the government and the
deepening of public appreciation to the growing
political social and economic dimension of national
security
3. LOI 22/09 "BAYANIHAN" (Barangay
Peacekeeping Operations
The Philippine National Police (PNP) recognizes the
role of the Barangay Tanods, Bantay Bayan, Civilian
Volunteer Organizations. Barangay Auxiliaries, Non-
Government Organizations and other People's
Organization that can be utilized as force multipliers
in the fight against criminality, insurgency and
terrorism. These organizations are also able partners
in the development of the community.
Executive Order No. 546 authorizes the PNP to
deputize the Barangay Tanods as a force multiplier in
the implementation of the peace and order plan
subject to the concurrence of the appropriate Local
Chief Executive through the Local Peace and Order
Council LPOC).
PCR in Community Oriented Policing System
(COPS)
A key ingredient in COPS is Police Community
Relations (PCR). With COPS, the PNP makes the
overt efforts to capture the public's sentiment, trust,
and confidence.
Doctrine of Reciprocal Responsibility
This requires that the PNP and the public work
together towards the attainment of a healthy and
peaceful environment.
THE PCR TEAM
The PCR Team Composition
The PCR Team, which also serves as Beat Patrol
Officers, is composed of a two-person field operator,
normally a veteran and a rookie policeman. Their
main function is to assist the MPS/CPS in conducting
community policing. The PCR team performs the
following police activities:
1. Patrol the beat.
2. Conduct of house visit.
3. Organize and Mobilize people.
The Attributes of a PCR Man
• He is the father of all the kids.
• He is a friend to the working adults.
• He is the loving son of the elderly.
PUBLIC INFORMATION
One of the main components of Police Community
Relations is Public Information (PI). Public information
covers information that pertains to documents,
memoranda and informative materials for public
consumption. It can also be in the form of multi-media
print TV radio, web (internet). Further, it is related to
any activity in all fields of work of the organization.
On the other hand, Perception Management is
simply defined as the use of a strategy that is aimed
at guiding or influencing the motives, emotions, and
conclusions of the public using different approaches
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS
favorable to the originator's objectives SALAAM POLICE CENTER AND COUNTER
RADICALIZATION

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS DIVISION

Another major component of Police Community
Relations is the Community Affairs Division. Its
function is to organize the different community sectors
in forging a united front against crime, terrorism,
insurgency and other forms of lawlessness, mobilize
communities in ensuring public safety and create an
environment conducive to safer and harmonious
interactions.
Functional Sections of the Community Affairs
Division
1. Community Organizing
2. Mobilization
3. Community Intervention
4. Community Safety & Security Assistance
Another important aspect in the PNP's PCR plan is to
oversee foreign nationals' and cultural minorities'
concerns, especially in the aspect of safety and
security. This is the main reason for the creation of the
Salaam Police Center and Counter-Radicalization
('Salaam is an Arabic word which means peace)
BARANGAY PEACEKEEPING PCR OPERATIONS
Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT)
desks shall be established in the City and Municipal
Police Stations or the Police Community Precincts in
the urban centers. The present Police Community
Relations Office (PCR) shall allocate a BPAT Office
where the organization regularly holds meetings.
Consequently, the PCR Officer becomes the BPAT
Officer. Traditional PCR functions and the Beat Patrol
System will be implemented by the BPAT Officers.

INFORMATION OPERATIONS RESEARCH

CENTER
The Information Operations (IO) as part of the Police
Community Relations of the PNP is relatively new.
• Information Operation employs the core
capabilities of electronic warfare, computer
network operations, psychological operations,
military deception, security operations, and in
concert with specified supporting and related
capabilities, to affect or defend information
systems that strategically influence the
decision making the process of the higher
offices.

Forms of Information Operation

1. Offensive IO. To destroy degrade, disrupt, deny
deceive, exploit and influence adversary decision-
makers who can affect the success of the friendly
operation.
2. Defensive IO. To protect and defend friendly
information command and control