MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said it is bracing for a digital transformation to keep up with the demands of the "new normal" situation amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
In a virtual press briefing, PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa, cited the need to introduce innovations in systems and procedures of law enforcement as more businesses and government processes adopt technological methods in serving the people.
In line with this digital transformation, Gamboa has approved to operationalize the One Network Project of the Directorate for Information and Communication Technology Management to establish network connections from the national headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City to the Police Regional Offices (PROs).
It will be used as a highway where the audio, video, and data communication of the PNP will pass through.
“The e-mail system will be used to provide all PNP Units/Offices and Personnel (uniformed and non-uniformed) official e-mail addresses which will be utilized in PNP transactions especially in frontline regulatory services of FEO (Firearms and Explosives Office), SOSIA (Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies) and police stations,” he said.
This came as the PNP will resume all front-line administrative functions and regulatory services such as processing of licenses, permits, and clearances to the public.
“In line with the resumption of frontline administrative service for issuance of permits, licenses and clearances effective Monday, June 1, I am pleased to announce that the PNP Recruitment and Selection Service (RSS) will resume processing of applications for recruitment to fill existing vacancies for recruitment, lateral entry, and cadetship program,” he said.
The police force is also on the lookout against cybercrimes.
"The past 72 days under ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) has ushered a crime pattern that saw an unprecedented slump in traditional crime trends and a surge in non-contact crime through the illegal use of access devices, telecommunication, and the internet," he said.
Gamboa said the PNP will strictly implement the full force of the law against cybercrimes and "any form of abuse on our women and children in this new normal".
He said the PNP is taking appropriate steps to focus on public safety, law enforcement, and internal security functions with greater attention to government flagship campaigns against crime, illegal drugs, and corruption amid the health crisis. (PNA)
