DOST-NRCP, PNP R&D Chart New Research Agenda for Evidence-Based Policing

Published October 23, 2026 · Filed under Features, General posts, News and updates · By nrcp_admin1 · 146 views

CAMP BAGONG DIWA, TAGUIG CITY — The Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP), in collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Directorate for Research and Development and the PNP Research Development Center, conducted an Agenda Updating Workshop on September 29–30, 2026, at Camp Bagong Diwa, bringing together research and law enforcement stakeholders to refine priority research areas that will support evidence-based policies and strengthen policing and national security.

The two-day workshop provided a venue for the PNP research and development community to reassess its research priorities in light of emerging operational, technological, organizational, and societal challenges. It emphasized the critical role of research evidence in shaping policies, programs, and operational strategies for law enforcement.

Police Lieutenant General (PLTGEN) Neri Vincent D. Ignacio expressed strong support underscoring the importance of research and innovation in strengthening PNP capabilities. His encouragement highlighted the value of sustained collaboration with the research community in addressing complex challenges in law enforcement and national security.

The workshop was led by NRCP experts Dr. Marie Paz Morales, Regular Member from the NRCP Division of Governmental, Education and International Policies; and Dr. Ramon Christian Eusebio, Regular Member from the NRCP Division of Engineering and Industrial Research, who were engaged through the NRCP Expert Engagement Program (NEEP), which mobilizes the member expertise to provide technical and policy support to government agencies and other stakeholders.

The agenda updating exercise highlighted the role of research not only in addressing existing operational challenges but also in anticipating emerging risks and opportunities. Discussions emphasized the need for research to be responsive to technological advancements, evolving security environments, organizational requirements, human rights, and community expectations.

The workshop resulted in a redefined research agenda organized around five broad research goals.

1. Operational and law enforcement capability development

The first research goal focuses on strengthening law enforcement capability and operational readiness across different operational areas, including maritime and other specialized domains. Priority areas include:

• Law enforcement capability and operational readiness;
• Planning, management, and execution;
• Modernization of police operations;
• Future research and innovation; and
• Ethical governance, including the responsible use of artificial intelligence, and human rights.

2. Resource management

The second area addresses the efficient and sustainable management of resources supporting police operations. Research priorities include resource management efficiency, particularly through technology innovation, resource optimization, technology adoption, and monitoring and evaluation.

The agenda also covers asset life-cycle management, maintenance and sustainability, logistics and supply optimization, tactical mobility, and localization.

3. Organizational development and personnel welfare

Recognizing that institutional effectiveness depends on both organizational systems and its people, the third research area focuses on personnel morale and welfare, personnel competency and professionalism, and organizational effectiveness.

It also highlights the importance of strengthening partnerships among government agencies, local government units, academic institutions, industry, and other stakeholders.

4. ICT infrastructure resilience

The fourth research area responds to the growing importance of resilient information and communications technology infrastructure in law enforcement. Priority areas include cyber defense and information security; climate- and disaster-resilient critical information infrastructure; edge computing and offline-capable systems; and database systems.

These areas reflect the need for reliable, secure, and resilient information systems that can support police operations, particularly in challenging or disrupted environments.

5. Public trust and sustainable policing

The fifth research goal centers on strengthening public trust and promoting sustainable, community-responsive policing. Research priorities include public trust and police-community relations, as well as evidence-based policing that considers the needs and experiences of women, vulnerable groups, communities, and barangays.

Strengthening the research-policy link

The Agenda Updating Workshop reaffirmed the importance of aligning research with policy and operational needs. By identifying priority areas, the initiative provides a framework for generating evidence that informs decision-making within the PNP.

With the leadership of PLTGEN Ignacio and the guidance of NRCP experts, the partnership between NRCP and PNP advances research that responds to real-world law enforcement challenges.

Through NEEP and similar expert engagements, the NRCP continues to embed technical expertise into government decision-making, contributing to a culture of evidence-informed policy and practice for public safety and national security.

(Mary Charlotte Fresco, NRCP-RDMD)