1,200 more cops earn criminology degree

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 1,200 more police officers have earned a degree in criminology under the distance learning program of a De La Salle-supervised university, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP). Director Geman B Doria, head of the PNP’s Human Resource and Doctrine Development unit, said the number is in addition to five batches of graduates from different police regional offices 1,2,3 4A and B and the National Capital Region. Another batch of is now taking the course, which is being offered by the University of La Sallette of Santiago City in Isabela province under its Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency Accreditation Program. Doria said the program, which is recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (Ched), was embodied in a Memorandum of Agreement signed recently between the PNP and the University of La Sallette. "This will be a chance for all PNP personnel to fulfill their dreams in obtaining their bachelor's degree or to have a second course. Review classes for PRC Licensure Examinations for criminologists and graduate degrees are also included in the program," Doria said. He said that while the police personnel themselves pay for the cost of enrolling in the program, those “who have completed the requirements of the program can relieve themselves of attrition concerns and may look forward for opportunities for lateral entry." Director General Avelino Razon Jr, PNHP chief, was quoted in the statement saying the program will not only help some PNP personnel to accomplish the basic educational requirements but also addresses the attrition issue, The Opening Ceremonies for Batch 6 was held last June 29 at the PNP Grandstand. - GMANews.TV