THE Philippine National Police has recognized empowered women in uniform in line with the 2023 National Women’s Month Celebration.

Among those cited was PMaj. Helen L. Dela Cruz, the only female officer in the Criminal Investigation Detection Group-Regional Field Unit 4A (CIDG-RFU4A)

The CIDG RFU 4A lauded Dela Cruz for her dedicated service to the public and commitment to duties in the field of administration, investigation and law enforcement.

In 2011, Dela Cruz was a recipient of the prestigious Metrobank Foundation award as Country’s Outstanding Police Officer in the Service (COPS) in her sterling feat and accomplishments as Women and Children Desk Investigator of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) and a true advocate of children and women’s rights and protection.

In 2012, she was chosen by the Female Network as one of the 100 Amazing Filipinas, in recognition of her without fear and favor treatment to all criminals who abused children and women.

In 2015, during her assignment in the CIDG Intelligence Division, she was the only female PNP personnel who was selected to be part of the Operational Audit Team of the Board of Inquiry (BOI), the fact-finding team for the Mamasapano incident.

Also in 2015, she was awarded as Best Junior PCO for Administration during the 114th Police Service Anniversary (PSA).

In 2020, during the start and peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, she bravely lead the CIDG-Rizal Provincial Field Unit as the Provincial Officer battling between the deadly virus and lawless criminals.

She is the record holder of being the “First Female Provincial Officer” of the CIDG Region 4A .

The only female officer in the CIDG RFU 4A, Dela Cruz wears three hats as the Chief, Admin, PCR and Operations Sections of the Unit, who alongside with the male leaders and officers and hardworking men and women personnel, makes CIDG RFU 4A, the Best Regional Field Unit through the years.

To her colleagues, Dela Cruz, a strong but kindhearted woman, is a true epitome of an Empowered Woman in Uniform.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jane Eleda