PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. has expressed belief that the police force’s progress when it comes to its Information and Communications Technology development can be credited for a high public approval rating they have gotten as shown by a recent Pulse Asia survey.

He issued the statement as he and Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan E. Uy signed in Camp Crame a memorandum of understanding for a more rigorous tie up to step up IT capability of both organizations.

“This MOU serves as the cornerstone of a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership between the PNP and the DICT, working hand-in-hand to establish a harmonized and seamlessly coordinated ICT system.

This collective understanding will not only foster integration, interoperability and interconnection between our respective systems and applications but also ensure their reciprocal enrichment and interdependence,” the top cop said.

During his speech, Acorda shared the recent Pulse Asia survey where the public expressed satisfaction with the government’s handling of urgent national issues. According to the survey, the PNP received favorable approval ratings of 67 percent and 64 percent for promoting peace.

Acorda said he signed the agreement with the DICT chief in pursuance of their comprehensive 5-focus agenda which is in full support of the government’s drive towards digitalization.

The PNP chief said that through this endeavor, the PNP and the DICT will engage in mutual understanding, ranging from intelligence sharing, joint response to cyber incidents, capacity building and exchange of best practices and technical expertise.

These vital efforts address the emerging challenges and opportunities in the digital landscape, he explained.

The PNP chief also commended the remarkable achievements of the men and women of the PNP Directorate for Information Communications and Technology Management headed by Major Gen. Bernard M. Banac.

According to Acorda, one standout DICTM initiative is the Secured, Mobile, Artificial Intelligence-Driven, Real-Time Technology (S.M.A.R.T. Policing).

“This approach utilizes advanced technology to empower our police force, enhance operational efficiency and effectively combat crime in the digital era,” he said.

Under SMART Policing, the National Police Clearance System (NPCS) was implemented across 779 PNP police stations and malls nationwide and has streamlined the generation of thousands of national police clearances, ensuring swift access to this vital document.

The PNP chief said that these projects and all other contributory projects not mentioned, provide a glimpse of the outstanding initiatives resulting from their SMART Policing approach.

He added that guided by the recently crafted PNP Information System Strategic Plan, they anticipate further groundbreaking developments for 2023 to 2025 in the PNP’s utilization of technology to enhance its law enforcement capabilities.