CRISIS MANAGEMENT

Preliminaries
The word Crisis is any event that is going for is expected) to lead to an unstable and
dangerous situation affecting an individual, group, community, or whole society, Crisis are
deemed to be negative changes in the security, economic, political, societal, or environmental
affairs, especially when they occur abruptly, with little or no warning. More loosely, it is a term
meaning 'a testing time" or an "emergency event".
In this premise, crisis is a wide variety of concer where collective efforts must be
bundled in, comprising all the vital factors to consider in order to cope with its negative
consequence. Human induced crisis like hostage taking, kidnapping, bombing, public
demonstrations, etc., were among of the crisis situations occurring in the country. Thus,
responders and managers on the ground are challenged by how to end with much success on
the negotiation and operational process.
As a case in point, we shall describe the Manila hostage crisis, officially known as the
Rizal Park hostage taking incident, which took place when a disgruntled former PNP member
hijacked a tourist bus in Rizal Park, Manila, Philippines on August 23, 2010. The bus carried 25
people: 20 tourists, a tour guide from Hong Kong, and four local Filipinos. The hostage taker
claimed that he had been unfairly dismissed from his job and demanded a fair hearing to
defend himself.
Negotiations (which were broadcast live on television and the internet) broke down
dramatically about ten hours into the stand-off, when the police arrested the hostage taker's
brother and thus incited him to open fire. Following a 90-minute gun battle, the hostage taker
and eight of the hostages were killed and several others injured and have been widely criticized
by pundits as "bungled" and "incompetent."
Another case in point, we might consider was the Super Typhoon Yolanda. Yolanda, a
category 5 super typhoon with an international name Haiyan, struck the Philippines in
November 8, 2013. The provinces which receives the brunt of Yolanda's force were the
Provinces of Eastern Visayas. In particular, the provinces of Samar and Leyte, Bohol, Cebu and
Siquijor. Local government units cannot help their constituents because their physical assets
were either destroyed or the roads and bridges through which they can be conveyed had been
swift by flood.
At the back of these has warrant the government and private organizations to turn into
the resilient side. One most important movement is the adaption of the Incident Command
System as the nation's approach to handle all forms of major destructive incidents brought
about by man-made and / o * r natural disaster that requires a multi-sectoral involvement and
a whole-wide effort in the response and recovery process.
On this part, the topic includes the concept and doctrine of crisis management, phases
and models of negotiation; understanding terrorism, its tactics, groups and motivational
classifications; managing hostage situation, stages and procedures; including the composition
and functions of the On-scene Command Post.
In addition, the significant features of the Incident Command System are likewise
presented. To practically realize the target output of this part, it is highly suggested to employ a
hostage crisis simulation, active group discussions, collaborative research output on the analysis
of hostage crisis experiences in the country; and identify best practices related to crisis
management.

BASIC CONCEPTS
Crisis is a period of disorganization, period upset during which people attempts at
arriving at solution of problems. It is a crucial or decisive point or situation; a turning point; an
unstable condition, as in political, social, or economic. It is a state provokes when a person faces
obstacles or hazards to an important life goal.
The term Crisis is derived from the Greek word "krisis" which means to separate; a
turning point decision in a process of an affair or a series of events.
The term Emergency is derived from the Latin word "emergencia" which means
dipping/plugging. A sudden condition or a state of affairs calling for an immediate action.

TYPES OF CRISIS
O MAN-MADE CRISIS- civil disturbances - strike, riot, demonstration revolt such as
mutiny and insurrection - revolution, border incident - war: conventional or nuclear crimes:
kidnapping, hijacking, hostage-taking, etc.
O NATURAL CRISIS - fire, floods, earthquake, tidal waves marine/air disaster, hazardous
spills, power failure, nuclear accidents water/food shortage/scarcity, drought-volcanic eruption,
epidemic, etc.
O INDIVIDUAL CRISIS - It refers to the feeling that arises when a person faces
unpleasant situation such as frustrations and conflicts. This includes:
1. Physical Crisis - those that are related to health problems or bodily sickness/ suffering
2. Economics Crisis - the deprivation of the basic necessities of life like food and
material things.
3. Emotional Crisis - when an individual is affected by negative feelings like emotional
disturbances, fear, etc.
4. Social Crisis - the experiencing lack of interest, confidence and social skills to relate
meaningful, harmonious relationship with others.
5. Moral Crisis - the person has an irrational or distorted concept of what is right or
wrong, lack of moral values and integrity of the person.
6. Psychosexual Crisis - failure of the person to assume one's sex role and identity as a
man or woman. The person has an inappropriate sex objective, inadequate and
distorted expression of affection.
THE CONCEPT OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT
Crisis management is the proper utilization of all available resources and the
formulation of policies and procedures to effectively deal with progressive sequence of events
(crisis) and sudden or unforeseen state (emergency).
THE CRISIS MANAGEMENT DOCTRINE
 The crisis may start as basically police or special unit matter but could develop in
proportion and dimension requiring further military operations. If the crisis situation is brought
about by natural calamities, then it is addressed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction
Management Council or NDRRMC (Formerly known as National Disaster Coordinating Councilor
NDCC). The general idea is to prevent the occurrence of a crisis, ensure a probability of success
in minimizing or neutralizing the perpetrator or to return the situation into normalcy.
PHASES OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT
A. PRO-ACTIVE PHASE - is the stage of advance planning, organization and coordination and
control in response to an anticipated future crisis occurrence. This phase is designed to predict
or prevent probability or occurrence of the crisis while at the same time prepares to handle
them when they occur.
1. PREDICTION - The first stage of anticipating future crisis occurrences through the
following:
o Update- Intelligence - involves the collection of information from variety of sources as
basis of actions and plan; those that are related to crisis management contingency planning.
o Events - are those incidents that are already passed which can facilitate analysis
necessary for identification of probable threat groups, targets and necessary for advance
planning.
o Threat Analysis of Threat Groups
a. Political Terrorist- Ideologically inspire individuals who grouped together for a
common purpose usually for change of government or political power. Ex. CPP/ NPA,
SPT's, etc.
b. Criminals - these are people who commit terrorist acts for personal rather than
ideological gains. Some of the terrorist acts such as kidnapping are well planned,
other are not planned, but happens as a result of the fast response time by LEAs to an
ongoing crime. For instance, a number of bank robberies have evolved into
unplanned hostage situation when policemen arrive in response to an alarm robbery
is in progress.
c. Mentally Deranged Individuals - people commit terroristic acts during a period of
psychiatric disturbance. This type is the most difficult terrorist to deal with. Many of them are
impulsive and unpredictable.
2. PREVENTION-This pro-active phase considers counter measures as part of the total
system of operation. Such counter measures involve the following:
o Operation Security - a counterintelligence measure where all aspect of awareness and
training must be considered to prevent threat groups from learning the units plans methods of
operations. It also refers to measures taken in conducting operations or activities in secure and
effective manner.
o Personal Security - it considers that all personnel are susceptible to terrorist attack so
the is a need for securing them. All security measures designed to prevent unsuitable
individuals of DOUGHTFUL LOYALTY from gaining access to classified matters or security
facilities.
o Physical Security - encompasses protection of info, material and people including
perimeter installation. A system of barrier placed between the potential intruder and the
material to be protected.
 3. PREPARATION - this pro-active phase involves organizing training and equipment
personnel of the organization. In general, military commanders and officers of the PNP must
organize, train and equip special reaction, security and negotiation elements and provide their
immediate activation when the need arises.
NCCM National Committee on Crisis Management - serves as the umbrella organization
for crisis management. The primary concern is the formulation of crisis management policies,
integration of mil / pol to public efforts towards the prevention and control of crisis.
The On-site Command Post (OSCP) shall establish with in the crisis incident site. It is a
post or unit within a probable target to be headed by an on-scene commander (OSC) whose
responsibility is to take charge of every happening of a crisis incident scene.
Composition of the OSCP
TACTICAL UNIT- composed of regular military or police placed under the operational
command of the OSC.
1. Reaction Element - Special action unit which are specially organized, equipped and
deployed in the region to hold special operation in cases of crisis incident.
2. Security Element - military or police personnel task to protect the area of perimeter
security to prevent occurrence of unnecessary incidents.
SUPPORT UNIT - It is a unit that provides the necessary administrative, operational and
logistic support of the OSC.
1. Intelligence Team - responsible for the collection and processing of all information
needed by the OSC.
2. Communication Team- responsible for insuring effective communication between
OSC and other units or sub-units.
3. Logistic Team - responsible for ensuring mess services, supplies (clothing, equipment,
transportation) and other logistic services.
4. Medical team- responsible for all medical supplies and services in cases of crisis
incidents.
5. Fire Fighting Team - responsible for all services related to extinguishing fires
intentionally set by perpetrators or during the result of operations.
6. Administrative Personnel - personnel assigned to OSC to keep written records of
events, in coming or outgoing communications.
7. Legal/Investigation Team investigation- services of investigation, preservation of
evidence, documents and legal advice to the OSC.
NEGOTIATION UNIT - It is headed by a chief negotiator and composed of two or more
members. Their primary concern is to serve first life, prevent destruction and pave the way for
a peaceful resolution of crisis situations.
B. THE REACTIVE PHASE
When a crisis occurs despite the pro-active effort, the organization concerned must
prepare to perform the crisis management in accordance with their plan.
PERFORMANCE it is the action stage, the implementation of the crisis management
contingency plan.
 1. The Initial Action - the stage taken by the Initial Action Unit, which is composed of
police and military personnel immediately organized into team to initially respond to take
incident and begin the containment effort. They are responsible for:
✓ maintain control of the situation
✓report the matter to the RCAG through channels
✓secure the scene by establishing perimeter security
✓ evacuate by standers if possible
✓prevent escape of perpetrator
✓ take maximum control
2. The Action Stage- The action stage starts as soon as the tactical, support unit and the
negotiation unit arrived and are deployed. The OSC discusses the incident with his commander
and staff and decides on the plans and actions to be taken.
Negotiation - chief negotiator undertakes negotiation as soon as he has been properly
briefed and received appropriate instruction from the OSC. He shall keep the OSCP informed of
the progress of negotiations and shall take instructions only from the OSC. No further
negotiation shall be undertake when the tactical unit commander initiates tactical operations.
Tactical Action - the tactical commander makes a complete estimate of the crisis
situation and plans his courses of action upon arrival at the scene while negotiation is in
progress. He shall maintain and continuous contact with the OSCP. He shall take over authority
on reaction element throughout the tactical operations. He shall take instructions only from the
OSC and coordinate all support requirements with the OSCP.
3. The Post Action Stage - This stage begins as soon as the perpetrator surrendered,
captured or neutralized. OSC shall ensure that the following are accomplished:
o Protection of the incident scene
o Investigation of the incident preservation of evidence
o Documentation
o SS - witnesses, hostage, perpetrators and other key participants of the incident.
o Recovered, documented, preserve evidence
o Pictorials, written reports
o Filing and prosecution of cases
o Damage Compensation and rehabilitation
He also initiates recommendation for the compensation and provide assistance to
civilian killed and injured during tactical operations. He initiates recommendation for the
rehabilitation, construction of damage or essential infrastructures. Training and re training of
unit personnel special units and negotiators shall continue with their training to improve their
proficiency and enhance their readiness.
 TERRORISM
Terrorism is punishable under Republic Act 9372 - Human Security Act of 2007. Under
this law: Any person who commits an act punishable under any of the following provisions of
the Revised Penal Code: o Article 122 (Piracy in General and Mutiny in the High Seas or in the
Philippine Waters);
o Article 134 (Rebellion or Insurrection);
o Article 134 - a (Coup de e Etat), including acts committed by private persons;
o Article 248 (Murder);
o Article 267 (Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention);
0 Article 324 (Crimes Involving Destruction, or under
o Presidential Decree No. 1613 (The Law on Arson); o Republic Act No. 6969(Toxic
Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act of 1990);
o Republic Act No. 5207, (Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Act of 1968);
o Republic Act No. 6235 (Anti-Hijacking Law);
o Presidential Decree No. 532 (Anti-piracy and Anti highway Robbery Law of 1974); and,
o Presidential Decree No. 1866, as amended (Decree Codifying the Laws on Illegal and
Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Dealing in, Acquisition or Disposition of Firearms,
Ammunitions or Explosives) thereby sowing and creating a condition of widespread
and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace, in order to coerce the
government to give in to an unlawful demand shall be guilty of the crime of terrorism
and shall suffer the penalty of forty (40) years of imprisonment, without the benefit of
parole as provided for under Act No. 4103, otherwise known as the Indeterminate
Sentence Law, as amended.
Terrorism is a threat or actual use of force or violence for political or other purpose, to
foster fear, insecurity, distrust, and unrest among a specific group or the general population. It
is "Violence for effect... not primarily, and sometimes not all for the physical effect on the
actual target, but rather for its dramatic impact on an audience"; "The calculated use of
violence or the threat of violence t attain goals, often political or ideological in nature"; " Is
violent criminal behavior designed to generate fear in the community, or a substantial segment
of it, for political purposes.
Classification of Terrorists
1. National Terrorist- A terrorist who operates and aspires to political power primarily within a
single nation.
2. Transnational Terrorist - This is a terrorist who operates across national borders, whose
actions and political aspirations may affect individual of more than one nationality.
3. International Terrorists - A terrorists who is controlled by, and whose actions represent the
national interest of a sovereign state.
Types of Terrorist
1. State-Sponsored Terrorist - which consists of terrorist acts on a state or government by a
state or government. Example: Al-Qaeda, PLO, IS / S
2. Dissent Terrorist - terrorist groups which have rebelled against their government. Example:
ISIS, IRA, CPP-NPA
3. Terrorists (LEFT and RIGHT) - terroristt groups rooted in political ideology. Example: Irish
Republican Army (IRA), CPP-NPA, U.S. Patriot Movement.
4. Religious Terrorism - terrorist groups which are extremely religiously motivated. Example: Al
Qaeda, ISIS, Jemaah Islamiya (JI)
5. CRIMINAL TERRORISM - terrorist acts used to aid in crime and criminal profit. Example: Abu
Sayyaf Group (ASG), Abu Nidal Organization
6. Lone-Wolf Terrorist - someone who prepares and commits violent acts alone, outside of any
command structure and without material assistance from any group.
PROFILE
(a) The Lone-Wolf acts to advance in ideological or philosophical belief of an extreme group,
they act on their own, without any command or direction.
(b) The Lone-Wolf's tactics and methods are conceived and directed solely of their own.
(c) The Lone-Wolf never has personal contact with the group they identify with.
IDEOLOGY
(a) Anarchist, nationalist. Conservatives,right-wing, and nationalist.
(b) Special interest: religion, environment, anti-abortion, and political.
MOTIVATION AND GROUP CLASSIFICATION
What causes a rational thinking human being to terrorize society? Assuming that the
terrorists think rationally (and most of them possess a high degree of rationality), we must look
to the terrorist's motives if we are to understand them, to think like them, and to ultimately
them.
1. Minority Nationalistic Groups - groups fighting the majority of the community where the
support base will depend one ethnic, religion, linguistic minorities at odd with the majority
community.
2. Marxist Revolutionary Groups - here, the terrorists' movement is characterized by its
possession of a coherent Marxist ideology and of a long-term strategy for bringing about the
socialistic revolution.
3. Anarchist Group - True Anarchist are difficult to find since true anarchy brings lawlessness
and disorder, which is not a natural state in which the human race exists.
4. Pathological Groups -problematic individuals who are grouped together for some terrorist
activities for emotional satisfaction.
In hostage taking, hostages are usually separated in safe houses to prevent
communications and escape, planning, and intelligence gathering.
TERRORIST TACTICS
BOMBING
Delivery to target is done through Vehicle Bomb booby traps with attached devices, Laid
Charges-bomb plates, Projected bombs-launched from riffles by a mortal device, postal / mail
bombs
ARSON
This is used to destroy or to disrupt public utilities, political HQs and industrial facilities.
HIJACKING
Hijacking and skyjacking are commonly used by terrorists. The hijack supply,
ammunitions, fuel cargoes, and vehicles to provide them to gain entry to a close military area,
skyjacking of commercial aircraft to gain publicity or to ask demands.
ASSASSINATION
The oldest but the commonly used terrorist tactic where targets are often police or
military officials, or political features and they always claim responsibility of assassination.
AMBUSH
This is a well-planned, well thought-out, properly rehearsed and precisely executed
operation. The terrorist has time on his side and will spend considerable time preparing for an
operation. Terrorist have an advantage in that they can choose the time and place of operation.
KIDNAPPINGk
Kidnapping for ransoms is the most common form of this tactic. The victim is normally
confined in a secret hideout and kidnappers make material demands.
HOSTAGE TAKING
The hostage-taker confronts the authorities and openly holds the victim for ransom. His
demands are more than just material in nature. Political concessions are the frequency
demanded in exchange for the hostage livens.
ROBBERIES/EXTORTIONS
Terrorist operations are expensive. To help finance their activities, terrorists rob banks
and armored vehicles carrying large sums of cash. Bank robberies are also used as graduation
exercises for terrorist training programs and viewed as a tactical operation. The conduct
reconnaissance, plan escape routes and operates in the high degree of efficiency and the
progressive taxation scheme of the CPAA / N * P * A is a form of extortion through coercion or
use of force against the victim or his property.
MANAGING HOSTAGE SITUATIONS
HOSTAGE NEGOTIATION
In hostage situation, the general tendency of Hostage Taker, is to focus their attention
on prominent personalities to gain much needed leverage in the negotiation.
Over the past decades, numerous hostage situation took place and the most widely
among them were the incidents committed by Arab Terrorists during the 20th games in
Munich, West Germany in September 1972; the hostage taking by Iranians of US Embassy
personnel in Iran; the hijacking of an Air France flight 139, July 1976 with mostly Israelis as
passengers and which craft was brought to Entebbe, Uganda by the terrorist.
In the local scene, the attempted hijacking of PAL took place in Zamboanga City by the
MNLF rebels where all the passengers were held hostage and the Bank Robbery in Cubao (BPI).
A man deranged and taking hostage of a child in a busy LRT station in Pasay City. Terrorist like
the Abu Sayyaf taking numerous hostages to obtain money and provide protection for their
escapes.
In hostage situation, the authorities are faced with individuals or groups of individuals
with psychological mentality, commitment, behavior stress and behavioral intolerance of
varying degree unpredictability of human behavior. aggravated by the
In dealing with hostage situations, the priorities are to -
1. Preserve lives
2. Apprehend the captors, and
3. Recover or protect properties.
According to experts, a hostage taking may last for an hour to more than forty hours.
Hostage takers and hostages and even the negotiators become tired and stressed out of the
long period of crisis intervention. Hostage become impatient waiting for their safe release or
rescue. With this, there is a great possibility of the birth of the Stockholm's Syndrome. This is
characterized by transference of attention between the captors and captives. The hostage
towards his captors may generate positive feelings.
STAGES OF A HOSTAGE SITUATION
1. Alarm Stage
This stage is the most traumatic and dangerous. In the alarm stage, the emotion of the
hostage taker is exceedingly in its highest peak, his rationalization and proper thinking is low,
He may be extremely aggressive in his reaction to any perceived threat. E.g. escape of hostages,
tactical assault, trickery etc.
2. Crisis Stage
In this stage, when negotiation attempts are being initiated by the crisis negotiator.
Outrageous demands and unpredictable emotion are marked or commonly noted in the
hostage taker. There is still a great deal of danger since hostage takers try to consolidate their
positions.
To do these, they try to move their hostages to a safer ground area. On the part of the
captive, this is the most critical because this stage may predict the remainder of the situation.
Chances of survival may be enhanced or reduced during this stage through the hostage-hostage
taker interaction. At this stage hostages may start to feel three (3) problems:
✓ Isolation,
✓Claustrophobia
✓ Sense of time
Sense of time becomes important on hostages who are hoping for rescue. This situation
may also in favor of the hostage taker as they earn compliance from their captives.
 3. Accommodation Stage - This is distinguished by boredom, and with moments of
terror. Though is considered as the longest yet is the most tranquil. In the crisis stage, and even
in the alarm stage, hostages are considering escape options but in the accommodation stage,
their initiative and planning are narrowed since captors has increased control over them. The
hostages' sense of life preserving has increased and even tries to obey the orders. Stockholm's
syndrome will likely to occur between the captors and the victims. One looks into this
phenomenon in the negative that one must say that cooperation of hostages to the negotiator
is constricted.
4. Resolution Stage} - This is the stage when the hostage taker being stressed out or
fatigued of the situation. He is seemingly losing interest of the situation and lost most of his
bargaining points, Tension between the hostages, hostage taker and the crisis negotiator are
notably low. It should be regarded also that the crisis intervention techniques of the
negotiation team have increased. In this stage, reactions of the hostages are mixed either
blaming their captors or may become hostile and uncooperative to their rescuers and even
accusing them to be the responsible for the whole situation. They might even appraise their
captors for taking care (saving) their lives though their captors placed them into a hell
experience.
THE HOSTAGE TAKER
It is a must that a police officer who first arrived at the scene has the necessary skill to
determine what type or personality of the hostage taker is. This does not mean that he must
diagnose the perpetrator. In assessing the situation, one must be able to determine and know
the two kinds of behavior:
1. Instrumental behavior - those who are engaging in this kind of behavior are having goals to
obtain or to be fulfilled. Generally, hostage takers of instrumental behavior are criminal types
and intervention usually needs bargaining. E.g. barricaded criminals, or other organized crime
groups.
2. Expressive behavior - This kind of behavior is characterized by their attempt to display
power. Those who engage in this kind are emotionally disturbed individuals. E.g. mentally
insane, etc.
Mentally Disturbed - This group suffers from different kinds of psychological maladies.
They may or may not in touch with reality. A mentally disturbed individual may be a loner, act
in accordance with non-existing irresistible force, or on a false belief or a stimulus.
Psychosis - is a gross and persistent falsification of conventional reality that leaves the
person unable to manage conventional reality with any degree of effectiveness.
Delusion - is the faulty belief that is motivated primarily by the individual's needs and
wishes and in fact, has no basis.
Hallucination-is manifested in a visual image that is quite vivid and real to the individual
who experiences it.
Paranoia - is a set of fixed delusional beliefs that are accompanied by clear and orderly
thinking outside the delusion system. Paranoia manifests itself. A paranoid has been described
as "vigilant suspicious, distrustful, insecure, and chronically anxious".
Schizophrenia - is a thinking disorder. Expert says that, approximately 80 percent of the
mentally ill of the population are schizophrenic. There are subcategories of this kind of mental
disorder, the catatonic state and the hebephrenic state. Catatonic state is demonstrated by the
patient's rigidly held position for some interminable period of time, while Hebephrenic state is
when the subject acts childlike and silly.
Neurosis - is suffered by a person if most likely to be observed in a continuous state of
anxiety. Erratic behavior would more than likely be displayed by reaction to anxiety in the form
of ego defense mechanism such as rationalization, projection or displacement. The signs and
symptoms are shaking uncontrollably and depression without explanation.
Manic depressive personality - Depressed individuals are in an incapacitated mental
state. He may frequently know the hostages and the latter might be the cause of his
depression. Negative outlook in life, feeling unworthy slow speech, suicidal and unpredictable
and extremely dangerous are the characteristics of this type of mentally disturbed. To a one
who is a suicidal type, he might inflict harm of even kill one of the hostages and the police will
be forced to shoot him.
Inadequate personality - This is a type of person that displays attention-seeking
behavior. Hostage taking is his action to prove himself or his worth. During the commission of
the crime, he tends to delay his actions and be caught in flagrante in order for him to prove
himself ("I'll show them"). His characteristics are homicidal, loser complex, maybe fired from
many jobs and is in touch with reality. Though they are emotionally disturbed, yet they are
apologetic to their behavior ("I'm sorry but I have to do this to prove that I can be a good
worker...").
Anti-social personality - Those who belong to this kind of personality are repeatedly
having conflict with the people around them and notably having a deviant behavior from
groups, social values and or individuals. They defend their face from embarrassment by blaming
others in the form or rationalization. Anti socials, when takes hostages, are generally engages in
expressive acts and they are likely to dehumanize the hostages, and this is an indication that
they are dangerous individuals.
The estranged person - Domestic problem is the main cause why an estranged
individual takes hostages. The hostages are commonly known to him and mostly are his family
members. The hostage taker is experiencing from relationship breakdown in his or her
interpersonal relationships and hostage taking is employed to compel the relationship to be
maintained. The hostage taker at his point is afraid of losing the significant others. In order to
carry out hostage-taking, alcohol and prohibited drugs are used to have the necessary courage.
Terrorists - Terrorism throughout the world has been alarming for the past decades and
even at present. Countries around the world have been facing terrorism problems either local
or international groups. In the United States alone, it has been reported that there are local
terrorists sowing fear, insecurity and unrest amongst the people. They create chaos through
assassinations, bombing, arson and other forms of malicious destruction of properties.
Barricaded Criminals - This type might be robbers cornered by the police while in the
act of committing their crime (i.e bank robbers). Either barricaded in a building, roadblock or on
getaway cars. Hostages may be employees, bystanders or both caught in the process of
escaping. The hostage taking is a spontaneous reaction of the criminal when cornered. Some
law enforcement officers consider barricaded criminals as attention seekers, but others
describe then in the contrary as they avoid being identified. Their primary aim is to escape
safely taking with them the hostages as shield to prevent being shot by the police. Usually
barricaded criminals are engaged in instrumental acts as they demand for material things such
as getaway cars, firearms, money, and safe escape.
 Prisoners - While most prisoners spend most of their time inside the correctional
institutions, some are concentrated on penal colonies under tight guards and to those who are
completely secluded inside their prison cells, they are haunted by boredom, get tired and
hostile. These may be due to the strict implementation of house rules, favoritism and poor
prison conditions (Lack of recreational activities and inadequate facilities, poor structuring etc.).
NEGOTIATION MODELS
Bargaining Negotiation Approach - In this approach, negotiation is viewed in terms of an
exchange or distribution of resources.
This Expressive Negotiation Approach – This approach is mainly focused on the emotional
state of the hostage taker as a powerful tool to resolving of crisis situation. Expressive
negotiation approach came to existence with the use of psychology, human relations theory
and research. Both assume that the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships play a
large role in resolving a conflict.
Communication-based negotiation approach - This approach is founded on an interactive
assessment if the crisis [hostage] situation as it unfolds and is created through the interaction
of the negotiator and the perpetrator. Therefore, communication-based approach is an
interactive process wherein negotiators and hostage takers react to each message behavior.
PRISON HOSTAGE SITUATION
Experience shows, time factor worked both for and against authorities. Allowing the
passage of time generally permits the leader to exploit his position by consolidating his
leadership. Thus, able to create a formidable bastion which cannot be neutralized without loss
of life. Whereas, action taken immediately, before the prisoners can organize and arm
themselves may well be less costly.
Demand for freedom, normally is non-negotiable. But if, circumstance show, it is the
only to save the hostages, it may be granted with the permission of the highest authority and
must be followed with hot pursuit after.
Demand for Superintendent, Warden, or even Governor, or highest authority, as
negotiator does not give incentives to surrender. In some cases, hostage isolation and reason
would be the most effective way to taker is bloated and demands for more. Perhaps, handle
this situation.
Technique of Kidnap/Hostage Success
Hall mark of Success: Blending of tactical response and behavior know-how (calls for,
development of tactics, using blocking and containment forces; expertise in use of weapons;
deployment of instant communications; use of behavioral experts-cool headed and with
professional leadership.
This calls for training programs for the Police in these vital areas;
1. Considerable Screening
All members of the team (Negotiators, Admin. Aide, Operational Aide, Sharpshooters,
Patrol Personnel, etc.) in their respective line of activities, once chosen, they should be given
the free reign in handling and evaluating areas and incident for the should a seniors officer
continue to counter manned orders in the site, the results will certainly be bundled.
2. Psychology
Analyze various situations and develop strategies using psychological technique rather
than force to obtain release of hostages. Point of training is to provide a basis for understanding
and anticipating hostage taker's moves, as well as possible reactions to police tactics.
3. Physical Training
Physical conditioning, weapon disarming method, and unarmed self-defense are vital to
control the demands of the situations.
4. Firearms
Pistols and revolvers, sniper scope rifle, assault weapons such as shotgun (double barrel)
and sub-machine gun, tear gas with bullet Proof vests.
5. Electronic Equipment
Familiarization on the use of wireless transmitter, electric taking devices covert
surveillance devices, etc.
6. Emergency rescue Ambulance
How to use or operate auxiliary equipment; public address system; firefighting unit; first
gear ambulance may be used as a safe base to start negotiation.
7. Vehicle Operation
Escape vehicle and chase vehicle, with attention placed on street and routes from
various location in the site of incidents to destination (airport or other terminal) for tactical
advantage.
8. Liaison
Jurisdiction matters cleared, cooperation with other agencies on possible routes must
be sought.
Upon arrival at the scene of incident, the negotiator should execute/act immediately the
following;
1. Containment - controlling situation and area by people involved. Other people/bystanders
must be obliged to get out from the area as t they may add more problems.
2. Establish contact-immediately after positioning at advantage position, communicate with the
leader, he may introduce himself by saying “my name” is_______________. I am a
_______________Iam willing to help. Never tell him your rank; the hostage taker might think
you can give. So that he may ask for impossible demand. Neither should the negotiator give the
feeling that he has the authority decide. Do not bluff.
3. Time Lengthening: Give more time to police to organize and coordinate plan of action.
4. Telephone Negotiation Technique - be the caller, plan and prepare, be ready with graceful
exit and discipline yourself to listen. Where a demand is impossible to get, stall time by
explaining that you need to talk other people. Hold on to your concession. But when concession
is granted try to get something in return. Say a grant of food get the release of sick or old
people in exchange Then there is no demand at all.
5. Need for Face-to-face Conversation - don't be ever anxious prepare for proper psychological,
physical and emotional confrontation. Wear body armor and possess a weapon, but if ask to
come without a weapon, ensure that they too should lay down arms before entering. When
entering see to it that you are protected with tactical back up and consider that hostage taker
might have body trap in some portions of the area, door or window of the building. Coming on
face-to-face situation, maintain proper distance, observe their movement, elicit a promise or
motivate them to surrender. In retreating, or in getting out of the room, face hostage takers
slowly back out of the door with good cover or tactical back up.
6. Surrender Approach - start with a position approach; act as if hostage taker will surrender.
Do not talk too much. Gradually ask him to surrender. Reassurance is the wisest thing to do.
Talk details of surrender process and explain why now is better than later.
Advantages of Telephone Conversation
1. Easier to say decline of demands.
2. Easier to conclude the conversation
3. Conversation is quicker
4. Important items are more easily communicated
5. Caller has the advantage
Telephone conversation; however, are impersonal where the negotiator is unable to see
the hostage taker, the hostages, reactions and conditions. Weapons and ammunitions are non-
negotiable.
Hostage Taker and Negotiator Relationship
1. Trust and Rapport - while trust must be there, beware of it.
2. Deceit- tell lies but don't be caught.
Demand of Hostage answer: Money, Escapes, Vehicles
Rules of Providing Answer
1. Delay, impress hostage taker even simple demand is hard to get; that you need to talk with
commander or other people, etc.
2. Get something in return for every concession granted, like aged, sick and young hostages.
3. Don't give concession at once, subject to interpretation that you could get easily.
Face-to-Face Negotiation
1. Don't be overanxious.
2 Wear body armor.
3. Have tactical back-up (sniper).
4. Traps at doors or windows.
5. Entering without gun being pointed at you.
6. Face-to-face mountain distance;
a. Person distance - 1 to 3 feet.
b. Intimate distance - about 6 inches
7. Withdrawing facing hostage taker slowly backing out of the door.
Effects of Time
1. Hostage taker will wear down emotionally, psychologically.
2. Hostage taker has more demand for food and water.
3. Anxiety reduce, hostage taker given chance to organize his true self.
4. Hostage takers rationality increase.
5. Hostage taker and negotiator relationships improves.
6. Hostage takers demand may be reduced. 7. Stockholm syndrome may be developed.
PLANNING AND PREPARATION FOR HOSTAGE SITUATION
In a relatively small town or community where it could merely depend on a small
contingent of police force, it must for purpose of preparation designate a crisis management
task group.
Designation and Duties
1. Field Commander
✓ Takes charge of all forces
✓ Provide containment of hostage taker scale of place, evaluate civilians
✓ Establish contact with hostage taker
✓Consult with Command Officer
2. Operational Aide
✓ Report to yield negotiator
✓ Set up temporary headquarters
✓ Coordinate assignment of off-duty personnel arriving at the scene
✓ Assisting units as necessary
✓Relay orders /information to involve personnel; receive requests
3. Administrative Aide
✓ Report of filed negotiator
✓ Supervise temporary headquarters
✓ Maintains records of operations and units at scene
4. Patrol Personnel
✓ Contain hostage takers (perpetrators) and help evacuate civilians out scene
5. Assault Team (with one leader)
✓ Sharpshooter with high powered arms on flack vests, (protective armor)
✓ Chemical agent
✓Need facilities (two-way radio for each of the above and what to do) which is set in single
frequency (strict discipline needed) and communication to originate from operational aide,
form or orders, request or updating information.
What is Important
1. Dry Run - one way to ensure hostage negotiating unit can establish control over a situation.
2. Considerable Screening - members; one chosen; the team members should be given free
rein in handling and evaluating of any of incident.; for should a senior officer begins
countermanding orders in the site, the results will certainly be a both bundled.
3. Patrol units, assault units, etc., should know exactly whose command they are under.
4. Rescue efforts must run strictly from the top down.
Implementation of Methods to Deal with Hostage Situation
Hostage situations of the revised PNP Operational Procedures provides the following;
a. A crisis management task group shall be activated immediately.
b. Incident scene shall be secured and isolated.
c. Unauthorized person / s shall not be allowed for entry and exit to the incident scene.
d. Witness/es name / s addresses and other information shall be recorded. Witness shall be
directed to a safe location.
The Ground Commander- the only person responsible for the command being the ground
commander in the era.
The Negotiator/s- they shall be designated by the Ground Commander. No one shall be
allowed to talk to the hostage taker without clearance from the negotiating panel or ground
commander.
Assault Team - an assault team shall be alerted for deployment in case the negotiation fails.
Members of the assault team shall wear authorized and easily recognizable uniform during the
conduct of the operations. Bonnets shall not be used.
Assault Plan - the assault shall be planned to ensure minimal threat to life.
Support Personnel - an ambulance with medical crew and a fire truck shall be detailed at the
incident.
Coordination - proper coordination with all participating elements shall be done to consolidate
efforts in solving crisis.
Safety of Hostage/s- in negotiating for the release of a hostage, the of the hostage shall always
be paramount.
NEGOTIATION PROCEDURES
•Stabilize and contain the situation.
•Select the right time to contact the hostage taker.
• Take time when negotiating.
• Allow hostage take to speak.
•Don't offer the hostage to offer anything. What he will ask will be part of the negotiation.

•Avoid directing frequent attention to the victim when talking to the hostage taker.
•Do not call them hostages. Be as honest as possible; avoid tricks, be sincere.
• Never dismiss any request from the hostage taker as trivial or unimportant.
•Never say "NO."
•Soften the demands.
•Never set deadline. Try not to accept a deadline.
•Do not make alternate suggestions not agreed upon in the negotiation.
• Do not introduce outsiders (non-law enforcement officers) into the negotiation process,
unless their presence is extremely necessary; do not exchange a negotiator for a hostage.
• Avoid negotiating face-to-face.
•Law enforcement officers without proper training shall not be allowed to participate in
hostage negotiations.
THE INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM
Backgrounder
The NRDDMC has issued Memorandum Circular No. 4, series of 2012 provides the
Implementing Guidelines on the Use of Incident Command System (ICS) as an On-Scene
Disaster response and Management Mechanism under the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction
and Management System (PDRRMS). The objective is to provide guidance to all DRRMCs and
other agencies concerned from both government and private sectors on the institutionalization
and proper use of Incident Command System (ICS) as a tool to organize on-scene operations for
a broad spectrum of disasters or emergencies from small to complex incidents, both natural
and human-induced.
The coverage of the said memorandum shall apply to all DRRMCs and other agencies
concerned, whether government or private, that are responsible for all-hazards incident
management in their respective areas of jurisdiction. It shall specifically cover on-scene
management of emergency response operations from disaster impact to the immediate
emergency response phase of an incident, with priority objectives of saving lives, ensuring
safety of responders and others, protecting property and environment, and incident
stabilization.
During the 1st ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management Meeting (ACDM) held in
Brunei Darussalam on December 09-19, 2003, the ACDM formally adapted the ASEAN-US
Cooperation on Disaster Management Program, with focus on ICS Capability Building for the ten
ASEAN Member States (AMS). The US Agency for International Development (USAID) which is
the principal funding agency of the program has tapped the US Department of Agriculture-
Forest Service (USDA FS) as the Program Implementing Agency.
The ICS Model introduced under the ASEAN US Cooperation on Disaster Management
provided the framework for adaptation of an appropriate and suitable model for on-scene
disaster response and management system within the AMS respective jurisdictions, at the same
time, to facilitate joint disaster emergency response and interoperability among the ASEAN
Member States. The Incident Command System could also effectively address some persistent
issues and problems arising at on-scene level such as who's in-charge on-site, especially when
the incident involves multi-agency participation and multi-jurisdictional, too many responders,
too many people reporting to one supervisor, unclear lines of authority, no check-in procedures
for responders and unclear incident objectives. The on scene disaster management tool
introduced to the AMS under the Cooperation has been proven to be effective disaster
response mechanism at the same level and has been utilized by the US and adapted by a
number of other countries. It is now emerging as the common international language of the
emergency response.
In the Philippines, the NDRRMC, through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), took the lead
in the implementation of the ASEAN-US Cooperation on DM. Partner agencies are the
Department of Local Government Bureau of Fire Protection ( G-BFP) , Department of Health
(DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine National Police
(PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Red Cross (PRC) , Metro Manila
Development Authority (MMDA), Fire National Training Institute (FNTI), Subic Bay Metropolitan
Authority (SBMA), the City Government of Olongapo, Davao City Rescue 911 and Amity Public
Safety Academy (APSA).
Among the activities that were conducted in the country under Phases 1 and 2 of the
Program include the following:
Phase 1 (2003-2005)
as NDRRMC) Member Agencies; initial adaptation Introduction of ICS to selected NDCC
(now known initiatives to the Philippine Disaster Management System context and ICS course
material adaptation; Training of Trainers on ICS and Pilot Testing of adapted course materials
Phase 2 (2009-July 2012)
ICS Inception Workshop; ICS Instructor Development through the conduct of six (6) ICS
Courses, namely: 5-day ICS Basic/Intermediate Course (July 1923. 2010), Integrated Planning
Course (Oct. 11 - 21 , 2010), Administration and Finance Section Chief Course (Feb. 28-Mar. 1,
2011), Operations Section Chief Course (Mar. 3-4, 2011), Logistics Section Chief Course (Mar. 4-
7, 2011), and Incident Commander Course (Mar. 8 - 11 , 2011).
Thirty-two (32) participants from partner agencies have successfully completed the
above courses and certified as ICS National Cadre of Instructors by the NDRRMC-OCD and
United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USDA- FS) . They are now constituted
as the core of the NDRRMC Incident Management Team (NIMT) who can be mobilized by the
National Council, as necessary, to assist in on-scene disaster response and management in
affected areas of the archipelago.
On December 24 2009, the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency
Response (AADMER) was ratified by the ten AMS and called on the Member States, among
others, to prepare standard operating procedures for regional cooperation and national action
such as regional standby arrangements and coordination of disaster relief and emergency
response.
Moreover, RA 10121, s-2010, otherwise known as An Act Strengthening the Philippine
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System, Providing for the National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management Framework and Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management Plan, has reposed on the Office of Civil Defense the primary
mission to administer a comprehensive national civil defense and disaster risk reduction and
management program by providing leadership in the continuous development strategic and
systematic approaches as well as measures to reduce the vulnerabilities and risks to hazards
and manage the consequences of disasters’. Section 9 of the said law provides the functions /
operational directions that OCD shall undertake to effectively implement its mission. One of
these functions is "to formulate standard operating procedures for the deployment of rapid
assessment teams, information sharing among agencies and coordination (underscoring
supplied) before and after disasters at all levels.
Further, Rule 7 (h), Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 10121, has expressly
provided for the establishment of an Incident Command System (ICS) as part of the country's
on-scene disaster response system to ensure the effective consequence management of
disasters or emergencies. Hence, in line with the objectives of AADMER and RA 10121, the
Government of the Philippines through the NDRRMC, hereby adopts and integrates the
Incident Command System (ICS) as an on-scene incident management mechanism within the
Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System (PDRRMS). Towards this end,
regular conduct of ICS training for disaster managers and responders at all DRRMC levels, non-
government organizations and private sector agencies and organization of Incident
Management Teams for disaster response and management at the on-scene level should be
pursued building program of all DRRMCs and other agencies and integrated in the ICS
development and capacity concerned.