MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR), in support of the Professional Regulatory Board of Criminology of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRB-PRC), hosted the events in celebration of the first Philippine Criminology Week, bringing together students, professionals, and experts to explore the evolving role of Criminology in law enforcement, public safety, and the justice system.
Established under Proclamation No. 397, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in 2023, the annual observance honors the contributions of Filipino criminologists to national security, crime prevention, and peacekeeping efforts.
With the theme “Criminal Justice Education: Shaping Leaders in Law Enforcement,” this year’s celebration emphasized the impact of Criminology education on the nation’s legal framework and its role in addressing emerging challenges in law enforcement. The event also highlighted the growth of the profession, reinforcing the need for continuous learning, cross-sector collaboration, and advancements in criminal justice practices.
A key highlight of Philippine Criminology Week 2024 was a series of competitions that showcased the skills, knowledge, and talent of Criminology students from various institutions. Participants demonstrated their expertise in research, debate, firearms handling, and law enforcement strategies, while others competed in athletics, performing arts, and e-sports.
Here are the winners of this year’s competitions:
Research Colloquium: Jhanmari Clemens Flores, Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC)
Debate Competition: Timothy Xander Gumiran and Michael Mendoza, Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science & Technology (EARIST)
Gun Assembly and Disassembly Competition:
Excellence in Safety: Noe C. Amora, Emilio Aguinaldo College, EAC
Best Overall Technique: Sheree Anne Fuentes, EARIST
Pistol, Male Category: Allan Patrick DJ. Juliano, Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR)
Pistol, Female Category: Jaiselle Anne D. Abian, PCCR
Rifle, Male Category: Noe C. Amora, EAC
Rifle, Female Category: Layra Joy L. Barba, PCCR
Shootfest Competition:
Open Notice and Open Categories: Jessica Jean Bacacao, Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU)
Top-Performing School: OLFU
Battle of the Brains: Kirk Elmo Frias, Lourdes Landao, & Leonardo Tan, OLFU
Basketball Competition: PCCR
Streetdance Competition: Immaculada Concepcion College
Mobile Legends Bang Bang Competition: PCCR
Singing Criminologist Competition: Erika De Guzman, PCCR
Mister and Miss Criminology Philippines:
Marco Antonio Torres, EAC
Vian Zyrah Lazaro, EAC
The week concluded with an appreciation dinner for the deans of Criminology colleges at Nine Spoons Bistro, Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros. During the gathering, the deans came together to establish a Council of Criminology Deans and formalized their commitment to advancing criminology education by signing a manifesto of cooperation. The agreement underscores their shared vision of strengthening academic collaboration, enhancing curriculum development, and promoting research initiatives to elevate the standards of criminology programs nationwide.
PCCR President Ma. Angelica Lei Bautista emphasized the importance of Philippine Criminology Week in recognizing the vital role of criminologists in the country’s criminal justice system. She highlighted how the celebration fosters academic excellence, professional collaboration, and strengthened efforts in crime prevention, peace, and order.
Meanwhile, PRB-PRC Chairperson Atty. Ramil Gabao stressed the growing importance of criminology education in addressing modern challenges in law enforcement, forensic science, and policy-making. With advancements in technology and the rise of cyber threats, he emphasized the need for adaptable, well-trained professionals who can uphold justice and safeguard public safety.
The first Philippine Criminology Week set the stage for a stronger and more dynamic approach to criminology education and practice. As the profession continues to evolve, the commitment to academic excellence, policy development, and skills training remains essential in preparing future law enforcers and public safety professionals.
With the success of this inaugural celebration, PCCR and other Criminology schools reaffirm their dedication to producing highly skilled, ethical, and forward-thinking criminologists, ensuring that the field remains responsive to the demands of modern law enforcement and security.