In an effort to improve public safety and peace, BiPSU, through the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), in partnership with the Municipality of Naval and the Biliran Provincial Police Office (BPPO), successfully held a seminar-workshop on February 12 at Barangay Imelda, Naval, Biliran.

This initiative, entitled “Empowering the Frontline: Enhancing the Capabilities of Barangay Police for Effective Peace and Order Maintenance,” focused on providing local barangay officials, barangay police officers, tanods, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATS), and selected residents with the knowledge and skills to improve crime prevention efforts, maintain peace, and enhance community safety, emphasizing the shared responsibility for public order.

Additionally, the workshop covered important topics such as crime prevention, citizen's arrest, blotter preparation, and crime scene preservation, equipping them with practical tools to effectively handle crime-related situations.

In an interview, Hon. Vennie G. Coton, faculty regent and the acting dean of the School of Criminal Justice Education, explained that the project in Barangay Imelda was driven by the LGU's request to address the area's training needs, particularly to help new leaders develop the necessary skills to maintain peace and order.

“The motivation behind conducting this program in Barangay Imelda is due to the recognition of a critical need for training in this remote area, as requested by the LGU, where access to such opportunities is limited," he said.  

"Plus, many of the participants are new leaders in their roles, and this training serves as an important opportunity to enhance their skills, especially in maintaining peace and order."

Moreover, beyond improving public safety, the seminar also encouraged participants to become responsible voters and active community leaders, working together to enhance the safety and well-being of their neighborhoods.

Notably, this event is part of BiPSU’s ongoing efforts to empower local leaders and promote peace and order throughout Biliran through continued community outreach initiatives.

[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.]