This study assessed the capability among the Philippine National Police Custodial personnel as basis for an efficient PNP Custodial Center. It sought answer to the questions on the current state of capabilities of the security personnel of the PNP Custodial center; the capability standard expected among the security personnel of the PNP Custodial Center, and the action plan and project that may be proposed based on the results of the study.
Interviews were conducted among 30 personnel of the PNP Custodial Center and a focus group discussion among the officers of the PNPCC and Headquarters Support Service. Upon analysis of documents and primary data, the following were the conclusions: The personnel of the PNP Custodial Center are capable in performing their duties as most of them had the proper and necessary training, sense of duty and service, and motivations. However, some of the personnel in the leadership have no prior training in custodial management.
The capability standard expected among the security personnel of the PNP Custodial center requires high physical, psychological and emotional attributes. The skills of the personnel need updating through advanced seminars and training. The responsibilities of the personnel of the Custodial Center were risky, and needing support in logistical and mobility aspects. There were internal and external concerns or problems that affected their performance of duty, but the personnel were enthusiastic in proposing the measures to overcome these concerns and problems. The factors on the stay or release of detainees were beyond the scope of authority of the personnel of the PNP CC as they are usually determined by court orders.
Based on the finding and conclusions of the study, the following are recommended: The Chief, CC must conduct regular meetings or open dialogue among the personnel of the PNP Custodial Center. This is needed in order to know the concerns, opinions and needs of the personnel in the execution of their daily duties. This can also improve the system and organizational harmony of the Unit. Require all PNP Custodial Center personnel to have at least one training related to custodial or jail management. This is to ensure that all personnel oriented on the knowledge and requirements of running a custodial center. The Chief, CC must conduct a regular physical, emotional and psychological monitoring of his personnel. Motivational activities may be conducted once or twice a year as facilitated by a motivational speaker or facilitator. This is needed to break the monotony of the routines of the personnel which could prove dangerous in the long-term. On a rotation basis, advanced training and updated seminars must be given to the personnel. The changing of the times demands these refresher courses. The nature of the job and the nature of the detainees require these trainings and seminars. Mandatory Custodial Corse must also be given to all officers.
To improve the logistics and equipment aspect, request appropriate vehicle support and additional personnel slots for the unit. The lack of vehicle downgrades the morale especially the escort personnel. The vehicle must be sturdy and designed to withstand bullet and bomb attacks. The personnel complement may be made temporary in nature as there are times when the number exceeds that standard number of detainees to security ratio. For the procedural aspect. The time of stay must be limited in PNP Custodial Center to avoid familiarization between the detainee and the security personnel. The Director, HSS shall endorse this policy through a Memorandum to the Chief, PNP who will also endorse it to the secretary of the DILG. The SILG shall endorse the letter to the Secretary of the DOJ to be distributed to the Prosecutors, and to the Office of the Court Administrator, Supreme Court to be disseminated to the Judges. In addition, serial numbers must be given to detainees for easier monitoring of the capacity of the PNP Custodial Center.