In response to the rising rate of cybercrime activity in the country, Project ePOLICE: “Empowered Police Officers through Literacy Improvement in Computer Education” was launched by a team of IT experts and specialists led by the Bachelor of Science and Information Technology Chairperson, Campus Director for Planning, MIS and GAD, and Project Leader, Asst. Prof. Dr. Benjamin E. Bulawit in 2021, with a strategic focus on bolstering the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills of police officers to combat such crimes.

Through a collaborative effort with PNP Angadanan and the 205th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Region 2, this initiative garnered swift acclaim, securing 1st Place in the 2023 Agency In-House Review and University Research and Extension Symposium (Echague Cluster Category) with the theme “Research for Development and Innovation (ReDI) Towards Sustainable and Equitable Future” held on November 20-21, 2023 at the ISU-E Climate Change R&D Facility.

Given the surge in cybercrime, the project aimed to equip PNP personnel with essential ICT skills, ensuring they remain adept in addressing the evolving nature of criminal activities in the digital landscape. Asst. Prof. Dr. Bulawit further explained that the primary objectives of this project were to assess the participants’ ICT literacy, conduct relevant training and seminars, and evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions.

Moreover, the project has been meticulously crafted to align with the aspirations of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically targeting SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). By elevating the computer education literacy of police officers, the initiative further contributed to quality education, improved workforce efficiency, and strengthened law enforcement institutions through technological skills.

The success of Project ePOLICE can be attributed to the various innovative training methodologies utilized throughout the duration of the project. These methodologies included lectures and discussions, practical demonstrations, and pre-post evaluations using a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire, which ensured a comprehensive understanding of concepts and practical application, fostering a holistic learning experience.

The findings of the project were documented in a research paper entitled “A Computer Education Literacy of Police Officers of Angadanan, Isabela: Basis for Computer Education Literacy Program” which was presented during the 2023 In-House Review as well as in the 1st International Multidisciplinary Research and Extension Conference, held at Basco, Batanes last Sept 19-22, 2023, earning recognition and copyright in October of  2022.

Beyond the accolades, the project’s sustainability plan further solidifies the team’s commitment to the SDGs, focusing on monitoring positive changes in job performance, socioeconomic status, and professional development of participants. The ongoing collaboration with partner organizations, including active involvement in the Company Advisory Council, ensures continuous support and consultation on ICT needs.

Furthermore, the PNP personnel contribute to the project by conducting seminars and training on critical topics like the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, Illegal Drugs, and Counterterrorism. This symbiotic relationship ensures a reciprocal and dynamic partnership, with both parties actively working to meet evolving needs, exemplifying the goals of SDG-17 (Partnership for Goals).

“On behalf of Angadanan Police Station, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Isabela State University Angadanan Campus for inviting us to undergo training of Project E-Police or the Empowered Police Officer through literacy improvement in computer education. This training helped us to upgrade and enhance our knowledge, skills, attitudes, habits, and values through the conduct of this standardized training which helped us to attain our vision of a highly capable, effective, and credible police service,” said PCPL Sheryl L Macni, PNP Angadanan-Isabela PPO.

“Napakahalaga ng seminar and workshop na nai-review. Dahil hindi lang mga police operation ang focus namin sa PNP, meron din kaming mga administrative works na mas mapapabuti ngayon dahil sa kaalamang binahagi nila sa amin. Sana magkaroon pa ng maraming ganitong trainings which can develop our skills,” PLT Melgar V Cajucom, Administrative Officer of the 205^th Maneuver Company RMFB R2 shared.

“Malaking tulong o aral ang naipamahagi ng ISU Angadanan sa pagkakaroon nila ng training regarding basic computer. Dahil sa panoon ngayon, nahalos computer-related na angayon. Ang pagkakaroon ng kaalaman at skills patungkol sa computer gaya ng photo, video editing, makakatulong ito upang mapadali at sa mas efektib na paggawa ng mga kainakailangan reports. In addition, mas mabust din ang confidence at mabawasan ang takot sa paggamit ng computer,” added PAT Judie Q De Vera of the 205^th Manuever Company RRMFB R2.

“Training provided through Project E-Police is undoubtedly a crucial step, in paving the way for our officers to become better equipped, more versatile, and technologically adept law enforcement professionals,“ PMAJ Are-J V Caraggayan, Company Commander of the 205^th Maneuver Company RMFB R2 stated.

As the project continues to evolve, its impact is poised to reach far beyond the confines of the university, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of police education and, ultimately, public safety.