NCJ Number
74231
Journal
Criminal Justice Journal Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Dated: (Second Quarter 1980) Pages: 56-61
Date Published
1980
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The organization and goals of previous and current Police Advisory Councils in the Philippines are reviewed, and suggestions for improvements are presented.
Abstract
If crime is to be deterred, a close rapport between the components of the criminal justice system and the community is necessary for speed, efficiency, and effectiveness in dealing with criminals. Police Advisory Councils can facilitate achievement of this rapport. Councils were initiated in 1967 as advisory bodies to assist police chiefs in solving community problems. The chiefs selected volunteer members from various occupational groups -- not including government officials or employees -- and the local mayors approved them. Council activities included the formulation of plans for crime control, the definition of police responsibilities, and the improvement of police operational and administrative functions. After the integration in 1975 of all police departments into one agency, which also assumed fire and custodial services, councils were established at each level of government and included government officials as well as representatives from civic, religious, educational, and other occupational groups. The councils meet regularly and have the authority to adopt their own rules and procedures and to call upon resource persons to accomplish their tasks. If local police commanders do not respond to council recommendations, the councils may appeal to the next higher command for appropriate action. Until now, the councils have concentrated on the role of local government executives and the community in crime prevention and law enforcement. The active participation of other elements in the criminal justice system has not yet been attained. The suggested improvements include a reorganization of the councils so that they may also provide focal points for effectively linking the activities of the entire justice system; the representation of prosecutors, judges, and correctional officers; and establishment of a secretariat to provide administrative and technical support. Furthermore, council activities should be expanded to include a review of complaints against any member of the criminal justice system and the submission of plans for improvements in corrections and criminal rehabilitation. A reference list is not included.