The University of the Philippines (UP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have officially solidified their commitment to promote research collaboration and knowledge exchange with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The momentous occasion took place today during the flag raising ceremony at 7:00 AM at Camp Crame.
The MOU signifies an important milestone in the partnership between the University of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police Research and Development Center (PNP-RDC). The PNP-RDC, responsible for conducting research studies and fostering self-reliant development projects for the police force, has expressed its keen interest in engaging with the University through this MOU to conduct various research activities. Among the priority projects is the enhancement of ballistic defense materials for the police force, a development initiative led by the Department of Mining, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering (DMMME) through the Materials R&D and Consulting Facility (MRCF), set to commence between this year and the next. The MOU establishes the initial and overarching terms for future activities to be jointly developed and implemented by the College of Engineering and PNP-RDC.
The memorandum was signed by the PNP-RDC and the University of the Philippines Diliman Chancellor, Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, along with Dr. Maria Antonia Tanchuling, Dean of the UPD College of Engineering.
The signing event was attended by esteemed officals, including PNP Chief PMGEN Benjamin Casuga Acorda Jr., PNP-RDC Director PMGEN Oliver Alilis Enmodias, members of the PNP-RDC, and representatives from DMMME. Presiding over the ceremony was PLTGEN Rhodel O. Sermonia, the Acting Deputy Chief of PNP for Administration, with PBGEN Robert T. Gallardo, the Officer-in-charge Directorate for Research and Development, also in attendance.
Under the provisions of this MOU, the PNP-RDC has conducted a series of collaborative meetings with the University of the Philippines, showcasing research and development project proposals from UP researchers that hold great potential for the PNP. The primary objective of this agreement is to foster mutual cooperation and understanding between the PNP and the University of the Philippines. Key areas of collaboration encompass the exchange of academic information and materials, joint research and development projects, lectures and symposia, student internships, continuous professional development for technical staff, and other activities mutually agreed upon. These endeavors are guided by a commitment to excellence, quality, reciprocity, and the formulation and implementation of a self-reliant development program for the PNP.
This MOU signing is in line with the focused agenda of Chief PNP PMGEN Benjamin Casuga Acorda Jr., emphasizing community engagement and the PNP’s unwavering commitment to public service.
The collaboration between the University of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police marks a significant stride towards the advancement of research and development efforts in support of the PNP’s mission to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law. Both institutions are committed to harnessing their collective expertise and resources to drive innovation, enhance technical competence, and contribute to a safer and more secure nation.