1

ROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED BY THE ETEEAP STUDENTS IN THE PHILIPPINE

NATIONAL POLICE

A Research Paper

Presented to

The Faculty of School of Criminology and Criminal Justice

PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College

Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for the Degree

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINOLOGY

By:

Chuatico, Danielle Mharey

De Cafe, Dynna Kaye L.

Maghanoy, Christinelyyn P.

Milana, Trixie U.

Tibon, Reciel Mae P.

October 2023
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page Number

TITLE PAGE i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE

1 THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

Background of the Study…………………………………………………….....1

Research Question………………………………………………………………3

Theoretical Lens…………………………………………………………………3

Significance of the Study…………………………………………………........5

Definition of Terms …………………………………………………………..6

Scope and Delimitation………………………………………………………….7

Organization of the Study……………………………………………………….8

Review of Related Literature and Studies…………………………………….8

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE

2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
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Research Design………………………………………………………………..15

Research Participants/Material………………………………………………..15

Data Collection…………………………………………………. ………………16

Ethical Consideration…………………………………………………………...16
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CHAPTER 1

Introduction

Background of the Study

Philippine National Police may face several challenges and struggles during their

educational journey and as they transition into law enforcement roles. ETEEAP is a program for

those individual who entered the PNP that there course is not related to PNP education, It is a

program that will help those personnel in the PNP who doesn't take the criminology course, for

them to be knowledgeable enough in the field of law enforcement. ETEEAP students might feel

pressure to excel in their law enforcement roles while pursuing their degree, which can add to

the stress and strain on their work-life balance. It's important for educational institutions and the

PNP to be aware of these challenges and provide support and resources to ETEEAP students

to help them succeed in both their education and law enforcement careers.

This issue has gained prominence due to the changing landscape of law

enforcement and the evolving societal demands for effective policing. Non-criminology

graduates opting to pursue a career in law enforcement bring diverse skill sets and academic

backgrounds, which present both opportunities and challenges for the PNP. As cited by Reyes

and Santos (2018), it was found that there are an increasing number of non-criminology

graduates expressing interest in joining the PNP. As of 2023, a total of 39 PNP Personnel

enrolled ETEEAP in Phinma Cagayan de Oro College.

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Not all the PNP members took up criminology course to become uniformed PNP

personnel, and it takes a lot more of motivation to gather courage to join the PNP force. As cited

by Republic 6975 also known as Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990,

it was stated the educational requirements for entry into the PNP. The law states that a person

must possess a bachelor's degree to be eligible for appointment to the PNP. It does not

specifically mandate that the bachelor's degree should be in criminology. Moreover, it grants the

National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) the authority to prescribe the qualifications for

appointment to the PNP, including th e conduct of examinations.

Students aiming for a bachelor’s degree through the traditional method usually complete

their college or university education in four or five years depending on the curriculum and the

number of units or credits they complete per term. Some schools are under the trimester

program while a few others are still under the two-semester system. Such may also affect the

length of time students spend with the institution until the completion of all their requirements.

Under the regular program, students are only allowed a maximum number of units/credits to

complete within one term even if they are capable to take up more. Other institutions, especially

those that offer regular asynchronous online or distance learning program in their system, have

a minimum residency which allows the students who can complete their requirements earlier to

enroll on the next term. (source?)

In the implementation of R.A. 8551, this requires members of the PNP to possess a

baccalaureate degree from a recognized institution of learning. This law affects those who

joined the organization before its implementation possessing 72 collegiate units and some are

even high school graduates. In order to help further these undergraduates to earn a degree,

another scheme was passed known as the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalence and

Accreditation Program (ETEEAP). This is the program of the Commission on Higher Education

(CHED), an educational scheme which recognizes knowledge, skills, training and prior learning
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obtained by undergraduate Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCO’S) from non-formal and

informal educational experiences.

Moreover,here in the Philippines, tertiary education is highly recommended especially in

pursuing greater endeavors and acquiring prominent jobs. Therefore, for those individuals who

wish to pursue and acquire a higher education in just a short period of time a government

agency in the Philippines called Commission on Higher education (CHED) imposed a program

that grants a bachelor degree. This program is called the Expanded Tertiary Education

Equivalency and Accreditation Program or ETEEAP. This program recognizes and gives value

and accreditation to individuals’ real-life skills and experience through their employment. In

addition, ETEEAP gives those individuals a chance to earn a college degree, presumably

opening up chances for broader career paths and employment promotion opportunities.

This research aims to identify and address the specific problems faced by ETEEAP

(Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program) students within the

Philippine National Police (PNP) organization, with the aim of improving their academic and

professional experiences for enhanced performance and career advancement. This will involve

conducting thorough research, gathering feedback from ETEEAP students, analyzing the data,

and proposing targeted interventions or support mechanisms tailored to their unique needs.

Research Question

The results of this study will based on the following questions:

1. How does the participants implements the line operation in terms of:

1.1 Traffic

1.2 Investigation
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1.3 Patrol

2. What are the problems encountered by the participants in terms of:

1.1 Traffic

1.2 Investigation

1.3 Patrol

3. How did the participants cop up with the problem encountered in terms of:

1.1 Traffic

1.2 Investigation

1.3 Patrol

Theoretical Lens

These are several theories and perspective regarding the Expanded Tertiary Education

Equivalency and Accreditation Program.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Theory

It is a process of identifying, documenting, assessing and certifying formal, non-formal and

informal learning outcomes against standards used in formal education and training. It is

suggested that RPL assessment processes themselves may constitute a barrier to take-up and

there has been a move to reconceptualise RPL as a distinctive specialized pedagogy for

mediating knowledge sharing across boundaries. ETEEAP is grounded in the RPL theory,

which asserts that individuals possess valuable knowledge and skills acquired through life

experiences and work. This theory emphasizes the need to acknowledge and credit this prior

learning towards formal qualifications.

(another par for synthesis every theory- explaining why you chose the theory for

your study)
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Andragogy Theory

Developed by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, Adult Learning Theory or andragogy is the concept or

study of how adults learn and how it differs from children. It aims to show how adult learning is

distinct and identify the learning styles which suit them best. ETEEAP aligns with andragogy,

which is the theory of adult learning. It recognizes that adult learners have distinct needs,

motivations, and learning styles compared to traditional students. ETEEAP's flexible approach

caters to these characteristics by allowing adults to leverage their work experiences for

academic credit.

Motivation Theory

Is the study of understanding what drives a person to work towards a particular goal or

outcome.

ETEEAP taps into intrinsic motivation, as individuals who participate in the program are typically

driven by a desire to enhance their knowledge and skills, improve career prospects, or fulfill

personal goals. This theory highlights the importance of personal agency and self-motivation in

adult education.

Significance of the Study

The result of this study will be beneficial to the following:

Philippine National Police (PNP). This research offers valuable insights into the motivations of

non-criminology graduates who join their ranks. Understanding these motivations can assist in

optimizing recruitment strategies, training programs, and human resource management within

the PNP. This information is vital for creating an effective and diverse workforce that contributes

to the organization's goals and mission.

ETEEAP Students
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Criminology Students. Criminology students can benefit from this study by gaining an

understanding of the motivations of their peers from different academic backgrounds who

choose a career in law enforcement.This insight can help them assess their own motivations

and career choices. Additionally, it might influence the curriculum or extracurricular programs of

criminology courses to better prepare students for a career in law enforcement.

Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP). It refers

to educational assessment scheme, which recognizes knowledge, skills, and prior learning

obtained by an individual from non-formal and informal education experiences.

Community

Future Researchers. This research serves as a foundation for future studies related to career

choices and motivations, not only in law enforcement but also in other fields. It sets a precedent

for investigating the motivations of individuals from various educational backgrounds and can

inspire researchers to conduct similar studies in different contexts or expand upon this research

to delve deeper into related factors.

Definition of terms

Baccalaureate Degree. It refers to a four-year college degree otherwise known as a bachelor's

degree. You can earn this type of degree once you graduate from high school or earn your

GED. Most baccalaureate degrees are four-year programs, but the completion time can vary.

Commission on Higher Education (CHED). It refers to a government agency under the Office

of the President of the Philippines. It is responsible for regulating and governing all higher

education institutions and post-secondary educational programs in the country.

Curriculum. It refers to the totality of student experiences that occur in the educational process.

The term often refers specifically to a planned sequence of instruction, or to a view of the

student's experiences in terms of the educator's or school's instructional goals.

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Education. It refers to the transmission of knowledge, skills, and character traits. Some

researchers stress the role of critical thinking to distinguish education from indoctrination. These

disagreements affect how to identify, measure, and improve forms of education.

Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP). It refers

to educational assessment scheme, which recognizes knowledge, skills, and prior learning

obtained by an individual from non-formal and informal education experiences.

Investigation. The action of investigating something or someone; formal or systematic examination

or research.

Patrol. An expedition to keep watch over an area, especially by guards or police walking or

driving around at regular intervals.

Philippine National Police (PNP). It refers to the national police force of the Republic of the

Philippines. It is both a national and a local police force provides law enforcement services

throughout the Philippines.

Training. Is teaching, or developing in oneself or others, any skills and knowledge or fitness

that relate to specific useful competencies. Training has specific goals of improving one's

capability, capacity, productivity and performance.

Traffic

Scope and Delimitation

This study is conducted at Phinma COC,Max Suniel St. Carmen Cagaya De Oro City.

The duration of the study is within the school year 2023-2024. This study mainly focus on the

problems encountered by the ETEEAP students in the Philippine National Police. The

delimitation of this study is time,data and the limited participants and the willingness to supply

the required formation of the ETEEAP students.

Organization of the Study

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The study is divided into two (2) chapters. Chapter one of the study consists of

the general introduction which includes; the purpose of the study, research questions,

theoretical framework, significance of the study, definition of terms, scope and delimitation,

organization of the study and the review on related literature and studies.

Chapter two includes the research methodology, research design, research

participants/materials, data collection, data analysis, and ethical considerations.

In chapter three it state the result of the study

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Review of Related Literature and Studies

This presents the researchers' related literature and studies. These literature and studies

help and support the researcher in developing the study framework, including published and

unpublished research in foreign and local settings.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is considered a desirable employer among

job seekers in the country because of its reputation for providing a stable and secure

government job. This reputation is particularly attractive to non-criminology graduates who may

not have many options for securing their financial future in a country facing economic

uncertainties. The PNP offers a much-needed sense of job security and financial stability that

can be hard to come by in other industries. Moreover, the PNP offers various opportunities for

career growth and development. With a structured career ladder, employees can progress

through the ranks and take on more responsibilities as they gain experience and expertise. This

not only provides a sense of professional fulfillment but also opens up the possibility of higher

salaries, greater benefits, and more opportunities for advancement. In addition, the PNP offers a

range of benefits and perks that are not available in other industries. For example, employees

can enjoy health insurance, retirement benefits, and even housing assistance. These benefits

go a long way in ensuring that employees are well taken care of and can focus on their work

without worrying about financial stressors as cited by (Conception 2018).

The ETEEAP was envisioned to be the means by which qualified individuals could

acquire formal higher education degrees through a system of assessment that accredits

informal learning for credit units toward a college degree. The assessment of prior learning

(APL) provides individuals with varied interests and educational backgrounds to obtain

certification for what they know and are able to do, and consequently earn credits for college

degrees should they meet the standards and requirements determined by participating

institutions. Larcelle, Sannadan, Ganotice IV and Gab-Is (2022). Feasibility Study on the

Offering of Expanded Tertiary Education, Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) as

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a NonTraditional Education in Higher Education in the Philippines. This program will help

undergraduate policemen to earn a degree without sweating much for they only submit the

requirements/documents that will prove their experiences, training, schooling which will be given

corresponding credit. (Guadamor 2016). The Balik Aral Program Of The Philippine National

Police Cagayan Police Provincial.

Higher education, also known as tertiary education for bachelor's degree, is instrumental

in fostering growth, reducing poverty and boosting shared prosperity. It benefits not just the

individual, but society as well. Graduates of higher education for bachelor's degree are more

environmentally conscious, have healthier habits, and have a higher level of civic participation.

In short, higher education for bachelor's degree institutions prepares individuals not only by

providing them with adequate and relevant job skills, but also by preparing them to be active

members of their communities and societies. (WBG Report 2017). Benefits of ETEEAP. The

aim of the ETEEAP is to address he need t strengthen the system of academic equivalency and

validation of the knowledge and expertise derived by individuals from relevant work experiences

and high level, non formal training to harness their full potential. The participation of the CHED

in the PNP Educational Qualification Upgrading Programs through its ETEEAP which provides

wider access to education will be great help policemen who are affected by the provision of RA

8551 requiring completion of baccalaureate degree. The NPC feels the need to continuously

upgrade the qualifications of the PNP members with inadequate tertiary education and to

encourage them to complete their education for professional growth and development.

Cuaderno (2016). Circularizaton of the ETEEAP to all PNP Regionals.

Republic Act No. 6975, also known as the Department of Interior and Local Government,

is a crucial piece of legislation for the Philippine National Police (PNP). This act establishes the

PNP as the national police force and law enforcement agency of the country, unifying various

law enforcement entities under one organization. The act also stipulates that the PNP is under
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the supervision and control of the DILG. Therefore, it is essential for anyone considering a

career in law enforcement through the PNP to understand the provisions and implications of RA

6975 thoroughly. Understanding the organizational structure, policies, and regulations that guide

the PNP is crucial for comprehending the role of the police force in the country. The PNP plays

a vital role in maintaining law and order and safeguarding the security of the nation. Therefore,

understanding the framework for recruitment, training, and operational protocols within the PNP

is critical for anyone considering a career in law enforcement through the PNP. This knowledge

can help individuals make informed decisions about their career and understand the impact they

can have in keeping the country safe and secure. The framework for recruitment, training, and

operational protocols within the PNP is set by RA 6975. This law outlines the qualifications and

requirements for joining the PNP and the training process that individuals must undergo before

becoming full-fledged police officers. Understanding these requirements is critical for non-

criminology graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. This

knowledge can help them prepare for the rigorous training process and make informed

decisions about their career. RA 6975 also stipulates the operational protocols that the PNP

must follow in carrying out its duties. This law outlines the guidelines for conducting

investigations, maintaining peace and order, and responding to emergencies. Understanding

these protocols is crucial for anyone considering a career in law enforcement through the PNP,

as they will be required to follow these guidelines while performing their duties. By

understanding the organizational structure, policies, and regulations that guide the PNP,

individuals can make informed decisions about their career and understand how they can

contribute to the mission of the PNP in keeping the country safe and secure.

Individuals who do not have a background in criminology but are interested in becoming

police officers in the Philippine National Police (PNP) are motivated by a strong sense of

purpose and commitment to public service, according to (Tum 2019). Despite lacking academic

knowledge in criminology, these individuals have found ways to cope with the challenges they
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faced during the Basic Recruit Training (BRT). They have identified their personal weaknesses

and sought various coping mechanisms to overcome them. During the BRT, many of these

individuals had positive experiences and felt that they received equal treatment. This equal

treatment has contributed to their motivation to continue pursuing a career in law enforcement.

Although the training was not without its challenges, they were able to overcome them and

develop a strong sense of resilience. It is noteworthy that these individuals have a powerful

motivator for joining the police force, and that is their commitment to public service.

Moreover, their sense of purpose drives them to excel in their roles as police officers. They

understand the importance of enforcing the law, protecting people, and maintaining public

safety. Their dedication to their work makes them valuable assets to the PNP. In conclusion, the

lack of academic background in criminology does not deter individuals from pursuing a career in

law enforcement. The motivation to serve the public and the willingness to overcome challenges

make them successful in their roles as police officers. The equal treatment they receive during

their training contributes to their positive experience and encourages them to continue in this

field. These individuals are a testament to the power of determination and the value of public

service.

The prior learning assessment via the Expanded Tertiary Equivalency and Accreditation

Program (ETEEAP) plays a pivotal role in determining whether applicants are qualified to be

admitted in the program. Being one of the mandates of the Commission on Higher Education

(CHED) in the Philippines, the fight against illiteracy and to increase access to education for a

larger range of people is a global concern. According to empirical studies (Baik, 2013; Singh,

2015; Wihak & Wong, 2011), Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in many countries provide

equivalence and accreditation for credit transfer, entrance into a college degree program, and

mobility for adult learners utilizing their own modality. According to Singh (2015), prior learning

recognition leads to admission to academe and shortens the rigors of the present academic

program at the tertiary level.

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When it comes to setting goals, it is important to be realistic and to consider the

timeline in which you want to achieve those goals according to Laguador (2020). While it is

important to dream big, it is equally important to break down those dreams into achievable

steps. This can help you stay motivated and on track, rather than feeling overwhelmed and

discouraged. In addition to setting realistic goals, it is also important to learn more about how to

live with the future and bring those dreams into reality. This requires a combination of self-

motivated passion and perseverance. It may mean taking the time to research and learn new

skills or seeking out mentors and resources to help you along the way.

Furthermore, one key aspect of living with the future is embracing change. The world is

constantly evolving, and those who can adapt and thrive in new environments are more likely to

succeed. This means being open to new ideas, taking calculated risks, and staying flexible in

the face of uncertainty. Another important factor in achieving your goals is staying focused and

disciplined. It can be easy to get sidetracked or distracted but staying committed to your goals

can help you overcome obstacles and stay on track as stated by Lim (2021). This may mean

setting boundaries and creating a routine that allows you to prioritize your goals and stay

focused on what matters most. Ultimately, living with the future requires a combination of

practicality and optimism. It means setting realistic goals and timelines, while also staying open

to new possibilities and opportunities. By staying focused, disciplined, and passionate, you can

bring your dreams into certainty and achieve success on your own terms.

Another study conducted by Garcia and Santos (2020) entitled “"Perceptions of Non-

criminology Graduates on Law Enforcement Careers: A Case Study " aimed to explore the

attitudes of individuals who did not major in criminology towards pursuing a career in law

enforcement. The results revealed that many individuals are enticed by the job security,

financial benefits, and the notion of serving the community. To attract more non-criminology

graduates to join the law enforcement workforce, the authors suggest that agencies initiate
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targeted recruitment campaigns that emphasize the stability and potential for personal and

professional growth within the organization.

As cited by Brown (2019) in his research study entitled “Motivation and Career Choice:

The Role of Law Enforcement Agency Culture" the culture of law enforcement agencies is a

significant factor in attracting individuals to pursue careers in law enforcement. Positive

attributes of the organizational culture, such as a sense of purpose and camaraderie, as well as

the opportunity to serve the community, can be powerful motivators for those considering a

career in law enforcement. To attract and retain motivated individuals, the authors suggest that

law enforcement agencies should focus on improving their organizational culture, placing

emphasis on community service and collaboration. By doing so, law enforcement agencies can

create a more positive and fulfilling work environment, which can help to promote job

satisfaction and encourage individuals to remain in the field over the long term.

According to Dapitan (2023) in his research study entitled “Experiences of Non-

criminology Graduates Police Officers in Philippine National Police (PNP) Organization”

motivation for joining the PNP stemmed from a strong sense of purpose and commitment to

public service, transcending their academic background. Positive experiences during Basic

Recruit Training (BRT) and equal treatment during this training were noted. Non-criminology

graduates leveraged unique skills and perspectives from their prior academic or professional

backgrounds, contributing to their success in the PNP. Challenges emerged due to their lack of

formal law enforcement education, but dedication, hard work, and a growth mindset allowed

them to overcome these challenges and excel in their roles.

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CHAPTER 2

Methodology

This chapter presented the research design, research setting, role of the researcher,

research participants/materials, data collection, data analysis, trustworthiness and ethical

considerations.

Research Design

The researcher used case study research design to generate an in-depth,multi-faceted

understanding of a complex issues in its real-life context. Therefore, after collecting the data the

researcher will analyze it to identify common or prominent themes. In this study, the

researchers want to study the problems encounteed by eteeap students in the philippine

national police. In this study, the data will be obtained through interview and open-ended

questions.

What is case study?

Summarize Chap 2. Answer W and H Questions. What, Who, Why, where, when and

How? (ok ra wla ang when)

Research Locale

This study is conducted at Phinma Cagayan de Oro College, Max Suniel St. Carmen

Cagaya De Oro City. Cagayan de Oro (CDO) in the Northern Mindanao region, also known as

the City of Cagayan de Oro, is a first-class, highly urbanized city. It serves as the provincial

capital of Misamis Oriental, where it is physically located but is administered separately from

local administration. Also, it serves as Northern Mindanao’s regional and commercial center.
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Fig

ure

Map

of

the

Philippines pointing to Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Orienta

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Figure 3

Map showing the geographic location of the Phinma Cagayan De Oro College
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Interview Guide Questions

This is composed of a series of self-made questions based upon the research questions

posed by the researcher. It will focus on gaining insights into the experiences and perspectives

of ETEEAP students in the Philippine National Police. This will consist of open-ended questions

and the answer will be recorded using audio recording device to capture the participants

response.

1. What are the key academic obstacles faced by ETEEAP students in the PNP?

2. How does the workload of active-duty PNP personnel impact their ability to succeed in

ETEEAP programs?

3. What are the psychological stressors experienced by ETEEAP students

balancing work and education within the PNP?

4. How do financial constraints affect the academic progress of ETEEAP students

in the PNP?

5. What role does institutional support play in the academic success of ETEEAP

students within the PNP?

6. To what extent do ETEEAP students encounter challenges in accessing required

course materials and resources?

7. What is the impact of ETEEAP program structure and curriculum on student success

within the PNP?

8. How do ETEEAP students in the PNP perceive the relevance and applicability of their

coursework to their professional roles?

9. What strategies do ETEEAP students employ to balance their responsibilities in the

PNP with their academic pursuits?

10. How does the recognition of prior learning experiences influence the academic

performance and motivation of ETEEAP students in the PNP?

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Research Participants/Materials

The participants of this study will be twenty (20) ETEEAP students of Phinma Cagayan

De Oro College. This study focuses on Problems encountered by the ETEEAP students in the

Philippine National Police. The research material that will be used in this study is through

interview to ask the respondents on what the factors of non-criminology graduates are in joining

the Philippine National Police. The researcher also used information coming from the internet

articles and research material in the library used as our basis on some related studies in our

topic.

IDI - in depth interview (explain, and how it’s used)

Data Collection

The researcher made the letter and had their teacher sign it. The primary data collection

method is through in-depth interviews by storytelling and open-ended questioner. The original

proposal was to conduct face-to-face interview the purpose of this study is improving their

academic and professional experiences for enhanced performance and career advancement.

This will involve conducting thorough research, gathering feedback from ETEEAP students,

analyzing the data, and proposing targeted interventions or support mechanisms tailored to their

unique needs. because many are still hoping that they could join in the Philippine National

Police especially the graduates came from non-criminology courses, hoping that they give

chances to enter in the PNP even if they are not criminologist. Effectiveness of individual

officers but also strengthens the overall capabilities of the PNP as a whole. It demonstrates the

organization's commitment to embracing a multidisciplinary approach to policing, ultimately

leading to a more dynamic and versatile force.

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Ethical Considerations

The researchers ensured that the respondents read and signed the informed consent

form that vouched for the voluntary nature of their participation. The researchers, likewise,

made sure that no person or organization was harmed throughout the conduct of the study.

Also, the researchers protected the respondents’ identity by presenting the result in general and

not mentioning individual responses that may lead to their identification.

Informed Consent

The researcher requested permission from the ETEEAP employees to formally begin the

data collection. The participants were advised that their comments would be treated completely

confidentially, and that whatever they provided during the interview would be accessible only to

the researcher.

Confidentiality

Researcher must ensure that sensitive data, participant information, and research

findings are kept confidential to protect the privacy and rights of individuals involved in their

studies. This helps maintain trust and ethical standards in research. Researchers often to follow

strict protocols and ethics guidelines to safeguard confidentiality throughout their work.
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