Frias E. Chap 1 5

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Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Introduction
The global proliferation of small arms is leading to a rise in criminality,
banditry and armed violence which is undermining development. Every day in
countries across the world, police and other law enforcers are under pressure
to counter rising levels of violent gun crime and are expected to confront armed
offenders. And increasingly, police and customs officers are called upon to
detect illicit gun traffickers, collect illicit firearms and persuade communities to
report illegal firearms. However, in many countries the resources made
available to equip and train police, as well as to make sure they are fully
accountable, are insufficient to meet these challenges.
As a result of these pressures and usually due to a lack of training and
supervision, some police use excessive and arbitrary force, or use firearms for
unlawful killings and as an instrument of torture and ill-treatment against
criminal suspects. Between 1997 and 2000, Amnesty International received
reports of torture or ill-treatment by state officials in more than 150 countries. In
more than 80 countries, people reportedly died because of their treatment at
the hands of those in authority. Most of the torturers were police officers who
used armed threats and violence to subdue their victims. In some countries,
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police officers have tended to mistreat vulnerable people – women, members of
minority communities or juveniles – who often should rather receive extra care.
Communities living in fear may lose trust and respect for the police, leading to
loss of cooperation and unwillingness to provide information, which deepens
the breakdown in community safety. Police misuse of weapons may lead
people to fear leaving their homes – preventing them from earning a living,
going to school, seeking medical help, reporting theft and corruption – thereby
undermining development. In extreme cases, political manipulation, and
corruption of police powers to use force aggravate such situations further,
especially when police are ordered by governments to target and kill political
activists, suppress peaceful protest, and arbitrarily detain government
opponents using firearms.
The work of law enforcement officials is a social service of great
importance and there is, therefore, a need to maintain and, whenever
necessary, to improve the working conditions and status of these officials,
whereas a threat to the life and safety of law enforcement officials must be
seen as a threat to the stability of society as a whole. The law enforcement
officials have a vital role in the protection of the right to life, liberty and security
of the person, as guaranteed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and
reaffirmed in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

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Law enforcement officials shall not use firearms against persons except
in self-defense or defense of others against the imminent threat of death or
serious injury, to prevent the perpetration of a particularly serious crime
involving grave threat to life, to arrest a person presenting such a danger and
resisting their authority, or to prevent his or her escape, and only when less
extreme means is insufficient to achieve these objectives. In any event,
intentional lethal use of firearms may only be made when strictly unavoidable in
order to protect life. In the circumstances provided for under existing principles,
law enforcement officials shall identify themselves as such and give a clear
warning of their intent to use firearms, with sufficient time for the warning to be
observed, unless to do so would unduly place the law enforcement officials at
risk or would create a risk of death or serious harm to other persons or would
be clearly inappropriate or pointless in the circumstances of the incident.
The police officers of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
regularly undergo the basic law enforcement firearms course to develop their
marksmanship skills and gun handling skills. Poor professional training and
systems of accountability, as well as a lack of basic police equipment and
resources, inhibit the ability of police and other law enforcers to tackle rising
gun violence. The North Caloocan City police force stands bigger chance of
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being able to control the influx and proliferation of weapons into urban
communities, and thus the cycle of violence is being prevented.
There were reported cases of firearm incidents in CAMANAVA area like
a female police officer who faced dismissal from the service for firing her gun in
Malabon City on New Year's Eve, according to the Philippine National Police
(PNP). Former PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas ordered the National Capital
Region Police Office (NCRPO) to implement the fastest summary dismissal
proceedings against this staff sergeant officer. The PNP leadership has
repeatedly warned its personnel not to engage in indiscriminate firing during
New Year’s revelries and have been warned of the consequences if they are
caught doing it. There are a lot of peaceful means to prevent and repel the
aggression without resorting to firing guns. A gun is not a passport for
indiscriminate firing. Furthermore, one of the most controversial shooting
incidents occurred in Paniqui, Tarlac, Philippines, when a police officer, Jonel
Nuezca, fatally shot two of his neighbors, Sonia and Frank Gregorio, after a
heated argument over an improvised noisemaker. The victims' relatives and the
perpetrator's underage daughter were present at the scene of the crime and
witnessed the incident. The incident was caught on camera and went viral on
social media, sparking nationwide outrage and reigniting the discussion over
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police brutality and human rights violations in recent years, linking the incident
to the Philippine drug war.
Background of the Study
The Implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act (RA) No.10591,
otherwise known as the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation
Act”, whereas Republic Act No.10591, otherwise known as “The
Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition and Providing penalties for
violations thereof”, was signed into law by the President of the Philippines on
May 29, 2013. The Chief of the Philippine National Police is mandated by law
to formulate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective
implementation of the comprehensive law regulating ownership, possession,
carrying, manufacture, dealing in and importation of firearms, ammunition or
parts and providing stiffer penalties for violations thereof. Article VI, Section 44
of Republic Act No. 10591 mandated that, after public hearings and
consultation with concerned sectors of the society, said Implementing Rules
and Regulations (IRR) shall be implemented and now then, the Chief of the
Philippine National Police, pursuant to the said mandate of the law, and after
due public hearings and consultations, hereby promulgates the following
Implementing Rules and Regulations in order to carry out the provisions of the
said Act. These Rules shall be known and cited as the Implementing Rules and
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Regulations of Republic Act No. 10591, otherwise known as “Comprehensive
Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act”. These rules shall be interpreted in
the light of Article 1, Section 2 of Republic Act No. 10591, which stipulates that:
“It is the policy of the State to maintain peace and order and protect the people
from violence. The State also recognizes the right of its qualified citizens to
self-defense through, when it is the reasonable means to repel unlawful
aggression under the circumstances, the use of firearms. Towards this end, the
State shall provide for a comprehensive law regulating ownership, possession,
carrying, manufacture, dealing in and importation of firearms, ammunition, or
parts thereof, in order to provide legal support to law enforcement agencies in
their campaign against crime, stop the proliferation of illegal firearms or
weapons and the illegal manufacture of firearms or weapons, ammunition and
parts thereof.”
Another legal basis of this study is the issued LOI 65/2010 on Proper
Care and Maintenance of Issued Firearms. This Letter of Instructions provides
the guidelines to be undertaken by concerned PNP Units/Offices in the conduct
of proper care and maintenance of PNP issued firearms. As of 3rd Quarter of
2010, a total of 85,869 short firearms were issued individually to the same
number of police personnel while 63,260 long firearms were issued to PNP
Offices/Units and police personnel who are entitled to the issuance of same
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due to the nature of their assignment. It is the inherent responsibility of the
personnel/office/unit which received the issued firearms to ensure operational
readiness and proper maintenance of said firearms. However, it was observed
not only during marksmanship and proficiency firing but also during actual
operational usage that these firearms malfunction when fired repeatedly. This
indicates poor maintenance and/or neglect on the part of our personnel to
properly care their issued firearms. The PNP shall conduct dissemination and
practical exercises on the Proper Care and Maintenance of PNP issued
firearms in order to develop item accountability by all PNP personnel and
offices/units arid ensure operational readiness of issued firearms.
All PNP units shall conduct a quarterly information dissemination on the
proper care and maintenance of PNP firearms during the conduct of the Police
Information and Continuing Education (PICE). The information dissemination
on proper care and maintenance of PNP issued firearms shall be divided into
two (2) parts: Part 1 shall be the lecture on the proper care and maintenance of
PNP issued firearms. The lecture shall focus but is not limited to the basic
maintenance and basic cleaning of firearms. Part 2 shall be the conduct of
practical exercises on disassembling and reassembling of PNP firearms. The
firearms herein referred to are issued short firearms (9mm, cal 45 and .38 cal)
and long firearms (5.56mm and cal 7.62). Based on the Phase I of LOI 76/09,
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the disassembling of the major parts of a short firearm shall be completed
within 60 seconds (1 minute) and the reassembling shall be completed within
60 seconds (1 minute) also. For disassembling the major parts of a long
firearm, it shall be completed within 60 seconds (1 minute) and reassembling
shall be completed within the same period of time. In conducting the practical
exercises, the following shall be observed: a) Except for star ranked officers, all
PNP uniformed personnel will undergo the exercise; b) Only the issued short or
long firearms will be used by each personnel for the exercise; and c) Long
firearms to be used in the exercise will be provided by the Logistics Officer of
the unit. Inspecting teams shall submit results of practical exercises to the
Heads of offices for their appropriate action.
Another legal basis is the basic principles on the use of force and
firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. Adopted by the Eighth United Nations
Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders, Havana,
Cuba, 27 August to 7 September 1990. Whereas the Standard Minimum Rules
for the Treatment of Prisoners provide for the circumstances in which prison
officials may use force in the course of their duties, whereas Article 3 of the
Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials provides that law enforcement
officials may use force only when strictly necessary and to the extent required
for the performance of their duty, whereas the preparatory meeting for the
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Seventh United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the
Treatment of Offenders, held at Vienna, Italy, agreed on elements to be
considered in the course of further work on restraints on the use of force and
firearms by law enforcement officials, whereas the Seventh Congress, in its
resolution 14, inter alia , emphasizes that the use of force and firearms by law
enforcement officials should be commensurate with due respect for human
rights, whereas the Economic and Social Council, in its resolution 1986/10,
section IX, of 21 May 1986, invited Member States to pay particular attention in
the implementation of the Code to the use of force and firearms by law
enforcement officials, and the General Assembly, in its resolution 41/149 of 4
December 1986, inter alia , welcomed this recommendation made by the
Council, whereas it is appropriate that, with due regard to their personal safety,
consideration be given to the role of law enforcement officials in relation to the
administration of justice, to the protection of the right to life, liberty and security
of the person, to their responsibility to maintain public safety and social peace
and to the importance of their qualifications, training and conduct,
The basic principles set forth below, which have been formulated to
assist Member States in their task of ensuring and promoting the proper role of
law enforcement officials, should be taken into account and respected by
Governments within the framework of their national legislation and practice,

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and be brought to the attention of law enforcement officials as well as other
persons, such as judges, prosecutors, lawyers, members of the executive
branch and the legislature, and the public. Governments and law enforcement
agencies shall adopt and implement rules and regulations on the use of force
and firearms against persons by law enforcement officials. In developing such
rules and regulations, Governments and law enforcement agencies shall keep
the ethical issues associated with the use of force and firearms constantly
under review. Governments and law enforcement agencies should develop a
range of means as broad as possible and equip law enforcement officials with
various types of weapons and ammunition that would allow for a differentiated
use of force and firearms. These should include the development of non-lethal
incapacitating weapons for use in appropriate situations, with a view to
increasingly restraining the application of means capable of causing death or
injury to persons. For the same purpose, it should also be possible for law
enforcement officials to be equipped with self-defensive equipment such as
shields, helmets, bullet-proof vests and bullet-proof means of transportation, in
order to decrease the need to use weapons of any kind. The development and
deployment of non-lethal incapacitating weapons should be carefully evaluated
in order to minimize the risk of endangering uninvolved persons, and the use of
such weapons should be carefully controlled. Law enforcement officials, in

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carrying out their duty, shall, as far as possible, apply non-violent means before
resorting to the use of force and firearms. They may use force and firearms
only if other means remain ineffective or without any promise of achieving the
intended result. Whenever the lawful use of force and firearms is unavoidable,
law enforcement officials shall: (a) Exercise restraint in such use and act in
proportion to the seriousness of the offence and the legitimate objective to be
achieved; (b) Minimize damage and injury, and respect and preserve human
life; (c) Ensure that assistance and medical aid are rendered to any injured or
affected persons at the earliest possible moment; (d) Ensure that relatives or
close friends of the injured or affected person are notified at the earliest
possible moment. Where injury or death is caused by the use of force and
firearms by law enforcement officials, they shall report the incident promptly to
their superiors, in accordance with principle 22. Governments shall ensure that
arbitrary or abusive use of force and firearms by law enforcement officials is
punished as a criminal offence under their law. Exceptional circumstances such
as internal political instability or any other public emergency may not be
invoked to justify any departure from these basic principles.
The rationale of this study is the researcher as a retired police officer
and academician particularly on Marksmanship and Gun Safety, it is the policy
of the government to maintain peace and order and protect the people from
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violence. The government also recognizes the right of its qualified citizens to
self-defense through, when it is the reasonable means to repel unlawful
aggression under the circumstances, the use of firearms. The need to
strengthen the education and skills of law enforcers of North Caloocan City
Police Station Extension is necessary and their mandate to become more
responsible on using their firearms when necessary. In the performance of their
duty, law enforcement officials shall respect and protect human dignity and
maintain and uphold the human rights of all persons, hence, the need to
conduct this study is important as it will gauge the awareness level of the police
officers on this matter.
Statement of the Problem
This study aimed to assess the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan
City Police Station Extension towards a responsible and effective police
performance.
Specifically, it sought to answer the following questions:
1. How do the respondents assess the firearms proficiency of North Caloocan
City Police Station extension in terms of the following:
1.1 Proper use of firearm;
1.2 Shooting accuracy;
1.3 Proper maintenance of firearm;

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1.4 Observance of ethical standard: and
1.5 Adept at Communication?
2 Is there a significant difference in the assessment of the two groups of
respondents in connection to the above-mentioned variables in sub
problem 1?
3 What are the problems encountered and solutions that may be offered in
the implementation of gun safety awareness in North Caloocan City Police
Station Extension?
4 Is there significant difference on the problems encountered and solutions
offered by respondents in the implementation of gun safety awareness in
North Caloocan City Police Station Extension?
5 Based on the findings of the study, what recommendations may be
proposed towards responsible and effective performance of police
function?
Hypothesis
1. There is no significant difference in the assessment of the two groups of
respondents on Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
Extension towards a responsible and effective police performance relative

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to proper use of firearm, shooting accuracy, proper maintenance of firearm,
observance of ethical standard and adept at communication.
2. There is no significant difference on the problems encountered and
solutions offered by respondents in the implementation of gun safety
awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension.
Scope and Delimitation of the study
The study attempted to determine the firearms proficiency of North
Caloocan City Police Station in terms of proper of use of firearm, shooting
accuracy, proper maintenance of firearm, observance of ethical standard, and
adept at communication, problems encountered and solutions that may be
offered in the implementation of gun safety awareness which were necessary in
various police operations such as drug operation, armed conflict, and
implementation of arrest with or without warrant of arrest. Other police
operations are excluded in this study.
The respondents of this research concentrated only to PNP operating
unit particularly Caloocan City Police Station Extension and its sub-Stations. It
was composed of thirty (30) Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) as the first
group of respondents and one hundred twenty (120) Police Non-Commissioned
Officer (PNCO) as the second group of respondents. All other studies prior to
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and beyond this period are excluded in this conduct of study. The study
covered the academic year from August 2021 – June 2022.
Significance of the Study
The findings of this study will be beneficial to the following:
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). The outcome
of this study will benefit the DILG by obtaining useful information regarding the
firearm proficiency of police officers in North Caloocan City Police Station.
National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM). The findings of this study
will benefit the National Police Commission; it will assist them to be aware on
the knowledge and proficiency level of police officers of Caloocan City about
the use of their firearms.
Philippine National Police (PNP). The result of this study will be an eye
opener for the PNP higher office to be more aware of the present status of their
police officers on how responsible they are when it comes to using their
firearms during the conduct of legitimate police operations.
Caloocan City Local Government. Through this paper, they may be
able to see how the present North Caloocan City Police Station Extension is
performing well in terms of police operational conduct of their duties and
responsibilities in combatting with the culprits of the land.

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North Caloocan City Police Station Extension. The PNP has the duty
of rendering services to the people, securing their safety and comfort while
living in a modest and peaceful society. To accomplish such mission, being
responsible police officer designed to serve with the demands and needs of the
people, their functions as protector of the land is always necessary.
Police Officers of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension.
The result of the study will enable them to oversee their performance and how
to conduct their operation in search of truth. They can make use of this study
as a reference to be more responsible and effective in their duties and
responsibilities.
Residents of North Caloocan City. The result of the study will benefit
the residents of Caloocan City for having responsible police officers protecting
their welfare and community and living in a peaceful environment.
Researcher. This study will help the researcher to know more of an in-
depth procedures and guidelines in the implementation of the Gun Safety in
North Caloocan City Police Station Extension.
Future Researcher/s. The result of this study will encourage the future
researchers to conduct a deep interpretation and appreciation and may conduct
similar studies using other variables aside from what is used by the researcher.
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Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter presents the literatures and studies which the researcher
deemed relevant with the present study. Such literatures and studies cited
paved the way in determining how far the researcher has gone through along
the area under investigation.
Proper Use of Firearm
The issue of gun proliferation is contentious. One, the topic itself is
controversial (Ortega, 2019). In the United States, gun ownership has stirred
constitutional debates. In the Philippines, enthusiasts attempt to invoke the
right to self-defense as a constitutional guarantee to gun ownership. There are
“pro” and “anti” positions as regards gun ownership. The topic is polarizing.
Two, not very many people view gun proliferation as the issue. Sure, there are
deaths involved, but in a society that has been desensitized by violence, these
events are dismissed as part of the way things are. In fact, people had found
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ways to make gun-related violence palatable. For instance, the 2018 election
with reportedly 122 deaths as compared to 189 deaths in 2015 election was
considered a relatively peaceful election, civilian deaths due to the conflict
between the government forces and the rebels are considered as “collateral
damage, a driver getting shot because of a traffic altercation is regarded as an
isolated event. What’s usually given attention are the crime rate, the insurgency
and the election violence. While these issues are important, most obvious is
often glossed over – all of these involved guns, and all of these became issues
precisely because of the easy access to guns. Three, guns or firearms, in
society with weak security enforcement are regarded ambivalently. Those who
doubt the capacity of security law enforcers to carry out their job well view it as
an instrument of protection. This is especially true in conflict areas. On the
other hand, those who do not possess guns view gun owners with distress.
More so, in the hands of organized groups – whether state or non-state –
firearms become an instrument of power and coercion. Possession of firearms
inherently creates a security in a community setting. In other words, gun not
only have a socially constructed value; their value and appreciation is also
contextual. This research reflects these controversies. It attempts to nuance the
subject beyond the binary positions of gun possession and ownership versus
those who do not approve of the same. It presents the social and policy-level
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dilemma that contextualize why policy makers seem to always perform a
balancing act. While the research acknowledges the reality of the polar
positions regarding firearms ownership, it avoids the typical formula of either
supporting possession or rejecting it.
The loud pop-pop-pop of a gun is heard, some people in the
Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) dive for their
mobile phones (Diega, 2021). Soft tick-tick-ticks form on a glowing screen. And
when the typist hits send, the words reach the Critical Events Monitoring
System, or CEMS, a SMS-based reporting system that captures conflict
incidents and tensions in communities that may or may not lead to the eruption
of violence. Shooting incidents in BARMM stood out as the most common of
reports transmitted to the CEMS as they tallied 424 cases for 2020 (or one
case a day) even as figures have yet to include December. The system covers
BARMM’s five provinces of Basilan (including Isabela City), Lanao del Sur,
Maguindanao (including Cotabato City), Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. According to
CEMS operator, the Philippine office of International Alert Inc., Maguindanao
has the highest total number of shooting incidents for the last 10 years at
2,408. Of the five provinces, Maguindanao was also consistently highest on a
yearly basis, the London, United Kingdom-headquartered non-profit group’s

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local office said. Lanao del Sur followed with 1,236, Basilan with 799, Sulu with
779 and Tawi-Tawi with 116.
The US is an outlier compared with other high-income countries in terms
of firearms and the problems they cause. While we have average rates of non-
firearm crime and violence, we have by far the most guns per capita
(particularly handguns) and the weakest gun laws (Hemenway, 2020). For
example, in most US states, there is no licensure law for firearm owners, no
registration of handguns and no training requirements for gun ownership. Not
surprisingly, our firearm homicide, firearm suicide and unintentional firearm
death rates are much higher than rates in other high-income countries. For
most documented injury prevention success stories, data and research played
an important role.3 Unfortunately, gun lobby groups have helped to prevent
much of the data collection and funding for research that could have shed light
on how to reduce our firearm-related public health and safety problems. One
estimate is that, compared with other leading causes of death, gun violence
had less than 5% of the volume of scientific publications predicted. Research is
important for many reasons. It provides foundational knowledge about the
various aspects of the problem, suggests what policies and programmes may
make sense, and evaluates whether they are working effectively. The drumbeat
of research findings can keep the issue and possible solutions salient for both
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politicians and the public. For most public health successes, there was strong
opposition, but eventually, the situation tipped. In the firearms area, perhaps
the tide is turning. We can certainly hope. Many things have happened over the
past few years that suggest we might possibly be nearing a tipping point. The
increase in mass public shootings, particularly at schools, has awakened the
entire public to the dangers posed by firearms. The simple fact that most
schools now have active shooter drills provides a constant reminder. Even
suburban upper-middle-class white moms are being affected, because they see
that their children are in danger. The incredible response of the students at
Stoneman Douglas High School has helped to galvanize activism. Media
interest about guns no longer is determined solely by mass shootings. In the
past, I would typically speak with many reporters in the immediate aftermath of
such an event, but otherwise, I rarely heard from them. Now they call and email
continually. Many Democrats, who for two decades were afraid to discuss the
firearm issue, now use it as an important talking point. Virtually, every major
association of physicians, nurses and other health professionals have written or
strengthened position papers about firearms. Even some large companies have
run from the National Rifle Association. A few states and a few more
foundations have begun funding firearms research. There has been a spike in
researcher interest in the topic. A quick search of PubMed articles under the
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search term ‘firearms’ shows an 88% increase in published articles in the
decade from 2006–2008 to 2016–2018. I now personally get asked by journal
editors to review submitted firearms papers 2–3 times per week. However,
given the size of the problem, funding and research efforts are still minimal.
The gun problem is enormous and heterogeneous and there is so much
we don’t know. For virtually any issue, we would do well to know the who, what,
why, when, where, and how. Yet, there still have only been one or two
empirical journal articles focused on gun training, or gun theft, and none
focused on open carry. We need to learn more about gun storage, gun threats,
straw purchases, smart guns, assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, gun
shop practices, guns on college campuses, guns at work, guns and road rage,
guns and alcohol, police shootings, police discretion, women and guns,
children and guns, gun ranges, gun suicide, gun accidents, gun assaults,
background checks, gun licensing, gun registration, gun taxes, gun liability,
implementation, enforcement and effectiveness of all gun laws, guns and
hearing loss, guns and lead poisoning, self-defense gun use, home protection
alternatives, and so on. Reporters often ask me what are the two or three
things that we most need to learn. I roll my eyes and tell them that it would be
like asking cancer researchers what the two or three things are they need to
know—and imagine asking them that if in the past two decades research
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funding and research levels had been only 5% of what they should have been.
In this special journal issue, there are a dozen papers on firearms that were
accepted in the past year or so. They include brief reports, original articles, a
special feature and a study protocol. Data come from surveys of gun dealers
and gun owners, from hospitals and death certificates, and from police reports
and internet searches. Topics include gun ownership, gun storage, gun suicide,
gun homicide, medical care for the wounded and prosecutions for straw
purchases. This collection of excellent articles helps to advance our knowledge
on some of the many firearm issues. It will be a good omen if collections such
as this become commonplace in the public health literature. Many fine
researchers want to contribute to our understanding of and provide useful
solutions for our firearm-related public health problems. To sustain that interest,
society now needs to provide sufficient research funding to allow them to make
a living doing so.
According to results from a 2020 survey, approximately 61 percent of
firearm owners in the United States have received formal training on firearm
safety and use (Cole, 2020). Others receive informal training from their friends
or family. Although there are no federal laws requiring private citizens to
receive safety training, states sometimes require gun purchasers or those
requesting concealed-carry permits to show proof of formal safety training on

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how to safely store, use, and maintain weapons. Advocates of such policies
suggest that the regulations ensure a minimum competency for using guns
safely, just as drivers’ tests are used to determine whether a person can safely
drive a car before being permitted to operate one. However, detractors of the
laws suggest that such regulations create unwarranted costs and barriers to
firearm ownership and that such ownership should not be made conditional on
training. Firearm safety training courses may cover firearm operation and safe
handling, the physics of firearms, how to clean and repair firearms, firearm laws
and regulations, and best practices for keeping firearms away from children or
other vulnerable individuals. Some courses include a live-fire demonstration to
prove that the applicant can use a firearm safely. However, the components of
safety training vary greatly. One study audited 20 basic handgun safety classes
in three states that had requirements for safety training and four that did not.
Most trainers covered key safety issues, such as safely loading and unloading
a gun, keeping one’s finger off the trigger until being ready to shoot, and being
cognizant of the target and what is behind it. In 50 to 75 percent of the classes,
trainers covered operating a safety lock and clearing jams and cartridge
malfunctions, and they recommended storing guns unloaded and locked when
the weapons were not in use. However, much lower percentages of instructors
discussed other safety issues, such as the role of firearms in suicide (10
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percent) and domestic violence (10 percent) or the role of stolen firearms in
gun crimes (20 percent). The impact of safety training on key outcomes
depends on the content of the programs, the effectiveness of the programs in
conveying pertinent information, and the number of gun owners who then
modify their behavior based on the information presented in the training. For
example, if safety training increased safe firearm storage practices, we might
expect firearm suicides and accidental firearm injuries and deaths to decrease,
although such storage practices might interfere with defensive gun use (see our
analysis of child-access prevention laws). And the motivations of the individuals
who receive firearm training could affect the overall impact of the training
programs. For example, some states require individuals to attend safety
training before they may obtain a permit to carry a firearm in public places,
presumably for self-defense. Such requirements might mean that trainings are
attended mostly by gun owners who could be less amenable to storing a
firearm safely, because safe storage could theoretically impede quick access to
a weapon for use in self-defense. However, limited research investigates the
relationship between the receipt of safety training and weapon safety
behaviors. Results from one 2019 survey showed that gun owners who
received formal firearm training (in which 80 percent of training courses
covered proper gun storage) were significantly more likely to store their
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firearms loaded and unlocked compared with gun owners who had not received
formal training; however, the most common source of training for this sample
was through the military, which may not produce the same effects as the
training required by states for civilian gun owners. Nevertheless, these findings
were supported in a 2020 survey of gun owners that showed similar rates of
formal firearm training participation (60 percent of respondents) and similar
rates of safe storage (32 percent storing all guns unloaded and locked and 46
percent storing at least one gun unloaded and unlocked or loaded and locked);
in addition, the survey showed that receipt of safety training was negatively
associated with safe storage safety practices among 2,939 older adults (aged
55 or older) who reported a gun in their home, 20 percent reported storing the
gun unlocked and loaded, and 55 percent reported attending a firearm safety
training. The authors found no correlation between safe storage and having an
adult in the house who attended gun safety training. Together, these results
suggest that firearm safety training may not necessarily increase the
prevalence of safe firearm storage practices.
The impact of safety training on key outcomes depends on the content
of the programs, the effectiveness of the programs in conveying pertinent
information, and the number of gun owners who then modify their behavior
based on the information presented in the training (Rowhani, 2020). For

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example, if safety training increased safe firearm storage practices, we might
expect firearm suicides and accidental firearm injuries and deaths to decrease,
although such storage practices might interfere with defensive gun use (see our
analysis of child-access prevention laws). And the motivations of the individuals
who receive firearm training could affect the overall impact of the training
programs. For example, some states require individuals to attend safety
training before they may obtain a permit to carry a firearm in public places,
presumably for self-defense. Such requirements might mean that trainings are
attended mostly by gun owners who could be less amenable to storing a
firearm safely, because safe storage could theoretically impede quick access to
a weapon for use in self-defense. However, limited research investigates the
relationship between the receipt of safety training and weapon safety
behaviors. Results from one 2019 survey showed that gun owners who
received formal firearm training (in which 80 percent of training courses
covered proper gun storage) were significantly more likely to store their
firearms loaded and unlocked compared with gun owners who had not received
formal training; however, the most common source of training for this sample
was through the military, which may not produce the same effects as the
training required by states for civilian gun owners. Nevertheless, these findings
were supported in a 2019 survey of gun owners that showed similar rates of
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formal firearm training participation (60 percent of respondents) and similar
rates of safe storage (32 percent storing all guns unloaded and locked and 46
percent storing at least one gun unloaded and unlocked or loaded and locked);
in addition, the survey showed that receipt of safety training was negatively
associated with safe storage. The authors found no correlation between safe
storage and having an adult in the house who attended gun safety training.
Together, these results suggest that firearm safety training may not necessarily
increase the prevalence of safe firearm storage practices. This evidence of the
relationship between self-reported training participation and firearm storage
behaviors contrasts with results from studies of gun owners’ beliefs about how
firearm safety training influences their behaviors and practices. A 2019 survey
of a national sample of gun owners found that 35 percent of respondents
believed that their storage practices were influenced by a gun safety training
course; the only factor endorsed more highly was concern about home defense
(chosen by 43 percent of respondents). The respondents who reported that gun
safety training influenced their storage behaviors were significantly more likely
to report safe storage behaviors, although this does not provide good evidence
that the trainings cause more safe storage. Overall, it is likely that the effect of
a gun safety training course on firearm practices will vary by the components of
the training course, the method of training delivery, the reasons an individual
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owns a gun, and other contextual factors in the home. For instance, this same
study found that most gun owners perceived law enforcement, hunting or
outdoor organizations, the National Rifle Association, and the military as being
more-credible messengers of gun safety training than were gun show
managers, physicians, and celebrities, who were rated as credible messengers
by fewer than half of respondents. Thus, credible messengers who promote
safe storage practices might be more likely to change the behavior of gun
owners than are non-credible messengers who promote safe storage. More
research is needed to understand the relationship between safety training and
changes in firearm owners’ safety behavior, including safe handling, law
compliance, and safe storage. Further research is also needed to determine
whether those who take firearm safety training courses are better able to use
their weapons for self-defense or whether courses do not provide enough
training to sufficiently prepare owners for a defensive situation. Without such
research, it is difficult to determine the impacts of firearm safety practices on
other outcomes of interest, such as firearm deaths, injuries, and violent crime.
Furthermore, the impacts of training on hunting and recreation and on the gun
industry also remain unknown.
Shooting Accuracy
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The Philippine National Police (PNP) faces myriad challenges, spanning
governance, corruption and national security threats (Mendoza, 2018). Hence,
securing a strong leadership pipeline equipped not only to face these
challenges, but also to strengthen policing effectiveness and over-all security
sector reforms is crucial. This study aims to map out some of the main factors
that both build or erode key leadership qualities and performance in the PNP.
Using quantitative and qualitative methods, and leveraging a comprehensive
dataset of police officers in the National Capital Region (NCR), the study
examines four main factors, namely personality traits, organizational culture,
demographic profile and professional history. The results show that personality
facets of openness, agreeableness, and neuroticism, as well as number of
transfers, area of assignment, training on managerial skills, age and education
level are all factors for good performance for officers in the PNP National
Capital Region Police Office. These findings emphasize the importance of
training and mentoring components in preparing young officers and recruits for
the rigors of service. It also underscores the need for a deeper analysis of
recruitment and selection policies, to ensure that the PNP successfully attracts
the strongest candidates with the right leadership characteristics and building
blocks for service.

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Biomechanical research of selected parameters in elite pistol shooting
disclosed that body sway and pistol movement were related to shooting
accuracy (Mason, 2020). It was revealed that body sway influenced the vertical
fall of shot while pistol movement was related to the horizontal scatter. Body
sway and pistol movement were found to be almost independent of each other.
The importance of adequate time spent during the final aiming process was
also demonstrated. The research uncovered there was a high degree of
variation in the factors which influenced accuracy for individual elite shooters.
Pistol shooters need years of experience before they may hope to attain elite
levels of shooting accuracy. In many cases, these results in shooters being well
beyond their psychological prime by the time they reach their performance
peak. If the period of best performance were to coincide with their physiological
peak it could easily be argued their potential for higher scores in competition
would be enhanced.
The newest study of police shooting accuracy in deadly force encounters
reflects the experience of just one municipal department (Woods, 2019). But to
whatever extent the findings can be generalized, the picture is indeed a
disturbing one. Researchers analyzed 149 real-life OISs recorded over a 15-
year period by Dallas (TX) PD. In nearly half of these encounters, officers firing
at a single suspect delivered “complete inaccuracy.” That is, they missed the
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target entirely. In 15 incidents, the total number of rounds fired could not be
determined. But in the 134 cases where researchers could establish that figure,
they calculated the hit rate, “incredibly,” at merely 35 percent. In other words,
more than six out of 10 rounds fired were misses. “Unfortunately,” the study
says, “the data do not provide a clear picture of what happened with these
[errant] rounds, but, at worst, they struck other officers or innocent bystanders.”
The research team, Dr. Christopher Donner and Nicole Popovich of the CJ
department at Loyola U. in Chicago, note that “although the amount – and
quality – of firearms training received by officers over the last century has
increased considerably, there appears to have been little improvement in
shooting accuracy.” Once again, “Hollywood entertainment [that] routinely
depicts the police as sharp shooters” falls far short of combat reality. Donner
and Popovich begin a recently published paper on their investigation by
recapping prior studies that have consistently found police shooting accuracy to
be “noticeably low.” From the earliest measurements in the 1970s, a wide
range of researchers have documented that “police departments rarely ever
achieve a 50 percent hit rate,” the authors report. Annual hit-rate averages in
large departments such as New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia and Las
Vegas, for example, have typically ranged from 22 percent to 52 percent over
the decades. “Given the amount of firearms training the police receive, it would
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be assumed that they hit their target more often than not,” the researchers
state. But the truth is that “officers are routinely inaccurate in their use of deadly
force.” In zeroing in on this subject with fresh eyes, Donner and Popovich
intended not only to reassess police shooting accuracy but to “explore what
factors – officer, subject, and situational” – appear to influence hits or misses.
Studying these factors, they hoped, could lead to “more effective policy and
training to help officers be more accurate when they are faced with deadly force
situations.” Combing a public data set maintained by Dallas PD regarding its
officer-involved shootings, the researchers found reports on 231 OIS events
from 2003 to 2017, including specs on officers, suspects, situations, locations,
and other contextual information. For simplicity, they write, they focused on
“single officer/single suspect shooting incidents wherein a single suspect was
shot at – or by – a single officer.” They isolated 149 such encounters. To
assess accuracy, the researchers coded and analyzed cases in two ways:
“Incident level” that is, regardless of how many shots the officer fired, did he or
she hit the intended target at least once? “Bullet level,” which took into
consideration the number of shots fired, allowing for a mathematical hit rate to
be computed. Of the 149 selected cases, 134 had sufficient data for bullet-level
analysis. In addition to accuracy, the researchers parsed all incidents for a
range of independent variables, including officer and suspect gender and race,
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officer experience, the presence of non-shooting fellow officers, suspect
weapons and threat level, and time of day.
Law enforcement agencies use a range of reactive and proactive
strategies to respond to and prevent gun crime (Peterson, 2020). While the rate
of violent crimes committed with guns has declined substantially over the past
30 years, more research is needed on which approaches are most effective at
reducing gun crime. The national policy discourse on ways to further reduce
gun violence focuses on either enhancing existing laws or passing new laws
that could prevent violent crimes committed with guns (e.g., homicides,
assaults, robberies) or other forms of gun violence (e.g., fatal and nonfatal
firearm suicides, gun accidents). Such policies include universal background
checks, bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, extreme risk
protection orders, concealed-carry laws, waiting periods, child-access
prevention (CAP) laws, minimum age requirements, prohibitions associated
with domestic violence, licensing and permitting requirements, and a host of
other laws and policies covered elsewhere in RAND’s Gun Policy in America
project. Debate about new policies rarely includes explicit discussion of what
law enforcement is currently doing, under existing laws, to reduce violent
crimes committed with guns. However, the rate at which violent crimes are
committed with guns has declined substantially over the past 30 years. For
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example, the homicide rate, which is dominated by crimes that involve firearms,
has dropped by 50 percent since 1980, with a large portion of that drop
occurring from 1993 to 2014 (James, 2018). Although it can be hard to
empirically prove that law enforcement actions caused the decline, most
commentators conclude that at least some of this drop was caused by the
response of law enforcement. In this study, we review the range of law
enforcement activities focused on enforcing laws that govern the criminal
misuse of guns (e.g., illegal possession) and violent crimes committed with
guns (e.g., homicides, assaults, and robberies committed with firearms). We
also comment on the existing research evidence. A convenient way to structure
our tour of law enforcement activities is to divide our attention between
standard (or traditional) law enforcement activities and proactive strategies.
Standard law enforcement approaches involve monitoring and reacting to law
violations when they occur; proactive approaches involve a range of activities
that seek to stop crimes before they occur. Both approaches aim to prevent
crime in general. We first review standard law enforcement approaches,
including enforcement of existing firearm laws and regulations and the
response to individual crimes involving guns (e.g., the investigation and
prosecution of such crimes). We then review proactive violent crime reduction
and prevention interventions, which occasionally focus on violent crimes

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committed with guns. The standard model of policing emphasizes random
patrols, rapid response to 911 calls, and investigations of reported crimes (with
the arrest of the perpetrator as the likely outcome). Enforcing firearm
possession laws and responding to, investigating, and prosecuting gun crimes
fit under this standard model. In this approach, increasing the number of law
enforcement officers is the primary way to increase performance or
enforcement. Both local and federal law enforcement have important, but
differing, roles within the standard approach in enforcing gun laws and
investigating gun crimes.
Firearms proficiency is an implicit expectation, held by the public of
police officers (Thomasson, 2019), due to presumption that the required firearm
training is an adequate preparation for a deadly force encounter. However,
anecdotal evidence and available data on police shootings suggest that
conventional, unrealistic training methods are wholly inadequate. To present
stress into firearms training, some departments have opted for exercises such
as physical exertion and shoot-house training as a substitute for realistic
simulation of force-on-force confrontations. To determine whether such
exercises are comparable, an observation of performance and heart rate levels
was conducted on a group of eight police officers, performing four different
firearms exercises. The results of the observation strongly suggest that there is
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a significant difference between the group of exercises in both measures, with
more realistic exercises producing substantially decreased performance and
raised heart rate levels. The implications for firearms training and qualification
are discussed.
Proper Maintenance of Firearm
Aside from performing the already tedious duty of law enforcement
operations (Caliwan, 2020), the Philippine National Police (PNP) under the
guidance of three different leaders has faced an extraordinary battle this year
including against an unseen enemy -- the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19)
pandemic. From being an officer-in-charge since October 2019, Gen. Archie
Gamboa officially became the PNP's top man in January following his
appointment by President Rodrigo Duterte. Two months after assuming as PNP
chief, Gamboa's leadership skills faced the ultimate baptism of fire as he led
the police force in preserving peace and order while at the same time helping
prevent the spread of Covid-19. Under Gamboa's term, crime incidents in the
country dropped by 47 percent as community quarantine measures in the
country amid the Covid-19 have been in effect for six months. During this time,
then Joint Task Force Covid Shield commander, Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar,
said from 31,661 incidents of focus crimes recorded between Sept. 15, 2019 to
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March 16 this year, the figure dropped to only 16,879 from March 17 to Sept.
16. The decline in crime incidents in the country translates to an average of 92
cases per day during the 184 days of the community quarantine compared to
an average of 172 cases per day during the six-month pre-quarantine. “We
have been conducting an analysis of the crime situation in the past six months
in order to identify the best practices and security adjustments that we could
replicate in other areas and eventually institutionalized in order to sustain this
momentum,” Eleazar earlier said.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Chief Eduardo
M. Año calls on Punong Barangays to ensure that no tanod under their
supervision uses firearms even in the performance of their duties. Año
reminded all Barangays that tanods or community brigades composed of
civilian volunteers appointed by the Punong Barangay upon recommendation of
the Barangay Peace and Order Council are not allowed by any law to carry
firearms even in maintaining peace and order in their communities. Ano said
that tanods may only use nightstick with teargas (probaton) with belt and
holster, handcuff with holster, whistle, flashlight, raincoat, rain boots, small
notebooks and ball pens, first aid kits, and other non-lethal gadgets. The DILG
chief explained that Republic Act (RA) No. 10591 known as Comprehensive
Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act enacted in 2012 has revoked the
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authority of police auxiliary units members such as tanods to carry firearms,
which was previously allowed by Circular No. 2008-013 of the National Police
Commission. “There is no longer any legal basis for arming barangay tanods,”
said Año. The DILG chief called on all local chief executives to ensure
compliance with this directive and to withdraw any firearm that has been issued
by them to barangay tanods. He stressed that registered firearms of local
government units (LGUs) shall only be issued to a government official or
employee with a permanent plantilla position as provided in Section 5.5.2 of the
Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 10591. Punong Barangays, on the
other hand, are entitled to possess and carry firearms within their territorial
jurisdiction, subject to appropriate rules and regulations, as stated in Section
389 (c) of the Local Government Code but only in the performance of their
peace and order functions. Meanwhile, DILG Spokesperson ASec. Jonathan E.
Malaya reminds the public that among the indications of a good punong
barangay ‘worth voting for’ in the upcoming barangay elections are those
knowledgeable of the powers and functions as well as limitations of barangay
workers such as tanods.
If you’re a gun owner you likely have experience cleaning and
maintaining it (Taylor, 2019), but if you’re new to firearm ownership, there are
some great tips and techniques to impart. If you’re a bit uncomfortable cleaning
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a rifle or pistol, bring your newly acquired firearm into our local gunsmith to get
a tutorial straight from the expert. At Liberty Firearms Institute, we have the
best local gunsmith in Colorado nestled under our 12,000 square foot shooting
facility. Stop in today to tour the facility, shop our retail, use our range, and get
a firearm lesson from our gunsmith! In the meantime, get a head start and
enjoy tips on firearm maintenance. The number one rule in firearm safety is to
treat the firearm as if it was loaded and always point it down and away from you
when you’re inspecting and cleaning it. Also, make sure the safety is on and
the firearm is, indeed, fully unloaded. As you become more comfortable with
your cleaning routine, you may fall into just that, routine, but always stay alert
and cognizant of what you’re doing. Consider wearing protection such as eye
and mouth protection when you’re using toxic and caustic chemicals and
solvents. If this is a new rifle, always consult the owner’s manual on the optimal
way to clean it. Typically, rifles will open with a latch on the back of the upper
side. From here remove the bolt, bolt carrier, and gas tube. Clean the barrel
from the back with the solvent, bore brush, and cleaning rod. Place the
cleaning rod all the way down the barrel (it should be long enough to go all the
way through) and then pull it through the other end. Through and out — repeat
a couple of times. Keep in mind to never begin from the front — you want to
clean in the direction of the projectile and keep any rifling in tip-top shape.
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Follow this by wiping the barrel down with cleaning patches and follow any
other recommendations by the manufacturer. The final step is to lubricate the
rifle. When not in use, firearms should always be kept in a safe place,
preferably locked. A gun safe or lock box are commonly used. Other places you
might consider are in a closet or in a chest. There’s a small learning curve
when it comes to properly caring for your firearm but arming yourself with the
knowledge from the owner’s manual and speaking with a local gunsmith, and
you can safely and confidently care for your firearms.
Firearm maintenance (or gun care for short) is a series of periodic
preventive maintenance procedures aiming to ensure the proper function of a
firearm, often with the use of a variety of specialized tools and chemical
solutions (Hogg, 2019). Typically, such maintenance is performed by the owner
of the firearm using either simple methods such as cleaning the firearm with oil
or other cleaning solutions, or more sophisticated practices such as lubricating
moving parts with oil/grease and recoating exposed surfaces with protective
finishes such as varnishing or bluing. When a firearm presents with physical
damage related to the ordinary use of the firearm, or when a firearm
malfunctions in a life-threatening manner, a professional gunsmith should
perform advanced maintenance to determine if the firearm is repairable and/or
safe to shoot anymore. An inadequately maintained firearm will often

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accumulate excessive fouling and dirt within the barrel and receiver, which not
only can clog up the rifling and decrease the firearm's accuracy and precision
but can also interfere with the proper operation of the action and lead to
potentially dangerous malfunctions. Furthermore, some of the fouling and dirt
are either corrosive themselves, or capable of making the firearm vulnerable to
rusting and wears, and thus can lead to irreversible damages to the firearm
over time. The consequences of neglecting proper maintenance can be
serious. For instance, during the Vietnam War, the newly issued M16A1 assault
rifle was distributed to US troops with marketing literature from Colt Firearms
claiming that the weapon was self-cleaning, which implied to many to mean
that it did not have to be routinely maintained. However, this misapprehension
compounded the rifle's design flaws and made the weapon notorious for
repeated failures in combat, which led to needless casualties among US forces.
Once the problem was acknowledged by the US military, the weapon was not
only subject to upgrades, but US troops were also trained in proper
maintenance of the weapon and supplied with cleaning kits and an illustrated
booklet on the subject by Will Eisner. With these measures, the reliability of the
M-16 improved considerably.
All firearms are potentially lethal. It is essential that the safety and
operating procedures recommended by the manufacturer are precisely

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followed, and that all operators of firearms are properly trained in their safe
operation and maintenance (Balmore, 2020). Do not under any circumstances
attempt to handle or operate firearms, before reading and fully understanding
the manufacturers instruction sheet for the weapon being used. When receiving
or handing over a firearm, always open the breech and make sure it is not
loaded. During and on completion of the loading procedure, the muzzle of the
weapon must always be kept pointing away, and a distance, from the
operator’s or any other person’s body. Once the weapon has been loaded,
ensure that the safety catch is on until ready to shoot. When handling any
firearm, never allow it to point at any part of your body or at any other person.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are aiming at the target and ready to
shoot. If possible, when shooting smaller animals, ensure that the subject is
standing on soft ground and that no part of your body is underneath the animal
(eg your feet). Rifles, shotguns and general-purpose handguns should never be
discharged with the muzzle in contact with the target area. Such action could
result in severe injury to, or death of, the operator. In the unlikely event of a
misfire, do not open the breech of the weapon for at least 30 seconds.
Sometimes, slow primer ignition will cause a ‘hang fire’ and the cartridge will
explode after a short pause. If there is any reason to suspect that a projectile is
obstructing the barrel, immediately unload the firearm and look through the
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bore. It is not sufficient to merely look into the breech; a round may be lodged
some distance along the barrel where it cannot be seen. Immediately report
any faults in the operation of the equipment to the person responsible for
maintenance (if applicable) and take the weapon out of service until the fault
has been rectified.
Observance of Ethical Standard
The police service is a noble profession which demands from its
members specialized knowledge and skills, as well as high standards of ethics
and morality (PNP, 2018). Hence, the members of the PNP must adhere to and
internalize the enduring core values of love of God, respect for authority,
selfless love and service for people, sanctity of marriage, and family life,
responsible dominion and stewardship over material things, and truthfulness.
This Ethical Doctrine was culled from the PNP Code of Professional Conduct
and Ethical Standards (COPCES) with inception of additional and related
principles, guidelines and sanctions, all geared towards the internalization of
moral values and service dedication. This Doctrine consists of seven chapters
similar to the provisions of the PNP COPCES. The adoption of the PNP Code
of conduct as an Ethical Doctrine reinforces the former as an effective
instrument in the moral values’ internalization in the PNP. This Ethical Doctrine
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applies to both uniformed and non-uniformed personnel of the PNP, unless
specified otherwise. This Ethical Doctrine is in accordance with the PNP
Fundamental Doctrine and the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical
Standards.
This is a critical systemic study on managing ethics and promoting better
police governance (Varona, 2020). The case study is the Philippine National
Police. Relatively little research on the Philippine National Police (PNP) could
be found in the literature. This study aims to break new ground in the attempt to
undertake research while also contributing to the PNP's better governance. It
also seeks to contribute to the literature on policing, ethics management, and
governance as well as to introduce the PNP to the wider community of
scholars, researchers and academics who could be interested in studying this
institution further. The PNP has had a long history of corruption, unethical
behavior, human rights abuses and internal institutional issues which have
resulted in problems of unethical behavior, bad governance and
mismanagement. The study develops a model through which this institution
could better manage ethics within and beyond in order to enhance policing.
This model could be useful in other police institutions around the world dealing
with similar issues about ethics management and governance because it seeks
to develop a model based on broad principles in ethics management and

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improving governance which could be applicable in other contexts, even as it
specifically deals with the PNP. As a critical systemic approach, it has broad
application which could enable other researchers to modify them to suit their
specific contexts. To sum up, this study has the following key findings: The
PNP suffers from various forms of unethical conduct among its personnel,
including bribery, patronage politics, the cutting of corners around the criminal
justice system, financial corruption, shortcomings in leadership and violations of
human rights; The PNP is a highly militarized, almost entirely masculine, and
thoroughly politicized entity, and these factors contribute to its existing
problems with corruption and unethical behavior; Police officers, particularly
those in the lower ranks, are neither adequately paid, nor appropriately
supported by the PNP, thereby contributing in part to individual unethical or
corrupt acts among such officers; Like many police institutions, the PNP has a
closed culture which separates it from the wider society in terms of governance
and management, even though most of its problems involving unethical
conduct and corruption are merely part of a wider civic tolerance for corruption
in the broader Philippine society; and The PNP admits to the existence of these
and other problems, however, its main approach towards improving itself is
through its own internal top-down institutional programs, believing that its
problems could be best resolved by its own leadership and its own efforts.
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Many of these institutional programs are of a religious and moral character,
involving the extensive participation of religious facilitators, such as the PNP's
chaplains, thinking that the development of a more ethical PNP should start
from a more religious and morally fit individual police officer. It formally
acknowledges the desire to see the wider society participate in its attempts at
resolving these problems, but it seeks to keep the mechanisms of such
participation within its own control.
The public police is one of the most formidable of public institutions
(Newburn, 2019). It is also one of the most powerful. Indeed, the coercive
nature of police power and the discretion to use it are what distinguish the
police from any other agency of government or social public entity. Where there
is power, there is arguably a need for ethics and ethical considerations. Police
are given powers and rights that are denied to ordinary citizens, such as the
authority to carry and employ firearms. Police are also allowed to violate the
privacy of suspects and persons under investigation in ways not normally
allowed. These form part of the social role and organizational culture of policing
Furthermore, these powers come with authority and a significant degree of
discretion, which means they could be exercised without close supervision.
Police are burdened with demands that are not normally made on the common
citizenry, which makes it imperative for ethics to govern policing. It could be

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argued that the nature of policing in a particular society is a strong indicator of
how that society’s government works. Newburn state that, ‘the moral basis of
police work can be found in the moral basis of government itself.’ Such is the
importance of policing and the ethics that ought to accompany it, that the
Council of Europe published in September 2019 the European Code of Police
Ethics. That the Council of Europe had arguably used its authority to introduce
a universal ethical code for all European police agencies and institutions
underscores the critical importance of ethics in policing. This is reason enough
to justify this research effort in this field.
An exhaustive review of the literature already written about the ethics of
policing has shown that little work has been carried out about transforming the
police institution towards ethics management and better governance because
of ethics management (Valeriano, 2020). There has been very little research
found dealing with the Philippine National Police or policing in the Philippines
other than in the form of surveys of public opinion or the rare and occasional
journal publication. By personal experience, policing and police matters have
never been a major portion of academic research efforts in the Philippines for
the most part, and perhaps the only schools dealing with these topics as
research issues are the National Defense College of the Philippines, which is
essentially a defense studies institute and the Directorate Staff College of the
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Public Safety College (PPSC), of which the Philippine National Police Training
Institutes (PNTI) are part. Universities very rarely carry out research in policing,
particularly in ethics management as part of police institutional design. Thus,
this is a study that could arguably be timely and relevant. Corruption and
unethical conduct are pervasive and continuing problems in the police. It has
even been argued that corruption and policing are linked inextricably, and the
Philippine National Police (PNP) is perhaps no more or less corrupt than any
other police institution in the world. Even so, a recent Transparency
International report has found that the Filipino public considers the Philippine
National Police (PNP) one of the least trustworthy agencies of the Philippine
Government. There is a deep public perception in the Philippines that the police
are among the most corrupt of public institutions.
It may not only be police misconduct and corruption that undermines
national development, for indeed, there are other issues of unethical public
conduct which (Nolledo, 2018), together with that of the police, weaken the
fabric of Philippine democracy, development and social well-being, police
reform towards an ethical institutional culture and better governance is a
pressing and crucial need for national development. This study, in all humility,
hopes to contribute towards that end. Policing is a very critical and significant
manifestation of the kind of relationship that exists between those who govern
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and those governed. If this takes place in a democratic society, then there is a
crucial, but not always properly understood relationship between the police and
the institutions of democracy and their legitimacy. For a developing democratic
nation such as the Philippines, this is more than significant. It could be argued
that it is vital and essential.
Adept at Communication
Perhaps today more than ever, communication matters (Fritsvold, 2021).
For police and law enforcement professionals, having the interpersonal skills
necessary to effectively communicate with fellow officers, subordinates, higher-
ups, community members, victims and their families, other departments and
jurisdictions, and the court systems is critical to the mission of “protect and
serve.” Police communication skills — needed to investigate crimes; de-
escalate situations; build trust with communities; and write memos, reports and
grants — are crucial for everyone working in law enforcement, and especially
for those with leadership aspirations. Many of the top officers and professionals
in law enforcement have cited effective communication skills as a key
ingredient to their success. That’s because the most successful law
enforcement leaders understand how to communicate with people from diverse
backgrounds under varying and often unpredictable conditions. They use

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communication to build trust, create transparency and foster an atmosphere of
mutual respect and empathy, be it in the office, on the streets or in the
courtroom.
Using what are sometimes referred to as “tactical communication skills,”
many police officers are trained to use a set of strategies in the field that can
help diffuse situations and identify the root cause before they escalate out of
control (Jacome, 2021). For officers to effectively communicate with their
community, earn their trust and get citizens to cooperate with their instructions,
some effective communication strategies that are deployed include: The “80-20
principle,” which was originally used in sales, says that officers should spend
80% of their time listening and 20% talking, and then use what they hear to
make a connection. Using body language to show the person that the officer is
listening carefully. Asking many questions, and making simple requests, one at
a time. Asking open-ended questions, especially questions that begin with
“what” and “how.” Understanding how “emotional contagion” can benefit or hurt
you. A person with mental illness may not understand all the words an officer
says, but the person will sense their tone and attitude. If the officer is shouting
orders and appears tense, that increases the tension. Speaking slowly and
calmly can help de-escalate the situation and convey to the person that the
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officer is not in a rush, that they have as much time as needed to converse and
reach an understanding.
It can be hard enough to communicate with suspects and community
members when they speak the same language, let alone when there is a
language barrier involved. As the diversity of citizens in the United States
continues to grow, police departments are actively seeking officers and law
enforcement professionals who possess second language skills – and many of
these departments are willing to pay a premium for those skilled candidates.
For example, police in San Diego, California, receive an additional 3.5% bonus
for being bilingual, and the Salem, Oregon, police department offers a 5% pay
incentive for bilingual speakers of Spanish, Russian, Asian dialects, or
American Sign Language. Additionally, there are several language training
programs geared specifically toward police officers, such as the free online
language training courses offered through the National Institute of Justice.
Communication is also being heavily relied upon to help change police
perceptions and improve community relations (Enriquez, 2020). In response to
events that have taken place over the last few years and the high level of
community–police tensions that currently exist in communities across the
country, police departments are increasingly focused on de-escalation
strategies when it comes to training officers, making arrests and interacting with
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community members. What many of the best chiefs and officers have long
known is that communication, done right, works. “Sometimes when a person is
in crisis, all they need is to be heard,” said Craig Stowell, Crisis Intervention
Officer and Staff Instructor, with the Stearns County (Minnesota) Sheriff’s Office
in an interview with the Crisis Prevention Institute. De-escalation in policing is a
technique that attempts to reverse the long taught and encouraged method of
using force to control a situation. Instead, de-escalation attempts to diffuse a
situation through peaceful means such as speaking calmly, showing empathy,
and asking open-ended questions to engage people in a real dialogue rather
than demanding answers and displaying power and authority. The importance
of de-escalation and educating officers about that skill is beginning to impact
police departments around the country. Officer Stowell’s department in
Minnesota now includes in-depth crisis prevention training in their classroom
sessions, and Minnesota has begun awarding six hours of continuing education
credit for licensed officers who complete these programs. The Chicago Police
Department has also updated its de-escalation protocols and emphasized their
commitment to finding non-violent and non-lethal outcomes during incidents.
The department mandates annual de-escalation and use of force training for
officers.
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But learning how to communicate with diverse populations ranging from
criminal suspects to victims, social service agencies, witnesses and other
community members –some of who may be dealing with trauma, addiction,
mental illness, poverty or any number of afflictions — is not easy.
Communication techniques and skills, especially as they apply to modern
police work, must be learned, and practiced to be effective. That’s why
professional training and experience combined with higher education can be so
effective.
Synthesis of the Reviewed Studies
The related studies discussed in this research provided the importance
of understanding the concepts about the Firearms Proficiency of North
Caloocan City Police Station Extension towards a responsible and effective
police performance. The researcher believes that above studies stated in this
research is similar to the present study. They both assessed the importance of
gun safety awareness of law enforcers. The only difference is their respondents
and scope of the study. However, they differ on the setting locale of the study.
The issue of gun proliferation is contentious. One, the topic itself is
controversial (Ortega, 2019). In the Philippines, enthusiasts attempt to invoke
the right to self-defense as a constitutional guarantee to gun ownership. There
are “pro” and “anti” positions as regards gun ownership. While these issues are
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important, most obvious is often glossed over – all of these involved guns, and
all of these became issues precisely because of the easy access to guns. In
the study of Diega (2021), a SMS-based reporting system that captures conflict
incidents and tensions in communities that may or may not lead to the eruption
of violence due to proliferation of guns in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in
Muslim Mindanao. According to the study of Hemmenway (2020), the US is an
outlier compared with other high-income countries in terms of firearms and the
problems they cause. While we have average rates of non-firearm crime and
violence, we have by far the most guns per capita (particularly handguns) and
the weakest gun laws. For Rowhani (2020), the impact of safety training on key
outcomes depends on the content of the programs, the effectiveness of the
programs in conveying pertinent information, and the number of gun owners
who then modify their behavior based on the information presented in the
training.
On variable shooting accuracy, the Philippine National Police (PNP)
faces myriad challenges, spanning governance, corruption and national
security threats indicated in the study of Mendoza (2018). Hence, securing a
strong leadership pipeline equipped not only to face these challenges, but also
to strengthen policing effectiveness and over-all security sector reforms is
crucial. Mason (2020) discussed that biomechanical research of selected

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parameters in elite pistol shooting disclosed that body sway and pistol
movement were related to shooting accuracy. It was revealed that body sway
influenced the vertical fall of shot while pistol movement was related to the
horizontal scatter. The newest study of police shooting accuracy in deadly force
encounters reflects the experience of just one municipal department was
revealed by Woods (2019). But to whatever extent the findings can be
generalized, the picture is indeed a disturbing one.
The proper maintenance of firearm was emphasized in the study of
Caliwan (2020). Aside from performing the already tedious duty of law
enforcement operations, the Philippine National Police (PNP) under the
guidance of three different leaders has faced an extraordinary battle this year
including against an unseen enemy -- the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19)
pandemic. According to Taylor (2019), if you’re a gun owner you likely have
experience cleaning and maintaining it, but if you’re new to firearm ownership,
there are some great tips and techniques to impart. If you’re a bit
uncomfortable cleaning a rifle or pistol, bring your newly acquired firearm into
our local gunsmith to get a tutorial straight from the expert. Hogg (2019) study
revealed that firearm maintenance (or gun care for short) is a series of periodic
preventive maintenance procedures aiming to ensure the proper function of a

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firearm, often with the use of a variety of specialized tools and chemical
solutions.
The variable observance of ethical standard was discussed in the
different studies with similarity with the present study. The study of Varona
(2020) emphasized that this is a critical systemic study on managing ethics and
promoting better police governance. This study aims to break new ground in
the attempt to undertake research while also contributing to the PNP's better
governance. It also seeks to contribute to the literature on policing, ethics
management, and governance as well as to introduce the PNP to the wider
community of scholars, researchers and academics who could be interested in
studying this institution further. Valeriano (2020) viewed an exhaustive review
of the literature already written about the ethics of policing has shown that little
work has been carried out about transforming the police institution towards
ethics management and better governance because of ethics management.
Nolledo (2018) reiterated It may not only be police misconduct and corruption
that undermines national development, for indeed, there are other issues of
unethical public conduct which together with that of the police, weaken the
fabric of Philippine democracy, development and social well-being, police
reform towards an ethical institutional culture and better governance is a
pressing and crucial need for national development.

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Other studies showed dissimilarities as compared with the present
study. The access to firearms in the home raises the risk of unintentional
firearm-related death and injury among children. If you choose to do so, safely
store the firearm locked up, unloaded, and out of reach. Keep ammunition in a
separate, locked place from the actual firearm. The benefits are clear when
looking at a community where professionally trained and formally educated
police officers serve in an official capacity; reflected in lower grievances filed
against officers, fewer complaints and lawsuits, faster response times, and
properly detailed investigations.
Theoretical Framework
The socially constructed value of guns or firearms is closely associated
with how one views the logic behind the social organization, particularly, the
level of social order and control in society. On one hand, there is a view that
society and social order consensual agreement and commonality of values of
people in a community. Stability is maintained by ensuring that everyone is on
the same page, and there exists an implicit agreement among its members. It is
apparent that this view regards individuals as capable of voluntarily limiting

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their desires for the benefit of the group. This frame has a strong normative,
somehow idyllic view of society.
The theory on Force Paradigm for Law Enforcement by Desmedt (1984)
showed a great relevance in this present study. A very appropriate model in
this study is the model representing the wide variety of types and levels of force
that a law enforcement officer can use to respond to resistance or a threat of
resistance can be useful both in training situations and in analyzing situations in
which force was used. The model can be pictorially represented on a
coordinate graph. One scale shows the level of danger to the law enforcement
officer and ranges from a cooperative subject who is physically close to the
officer to a subject who is placing life and limb in jeopardy. The other scale
shows the range of potential responses, starting with the physical presence of
the officer and continuing with verbal direction (persuasion, advice, warning),
weaponless control (pain compliance techniques, stunning, and mechanical
control), chemical agents, impact weapons like batons, and the use of firearms.
To use the model, the officer places the situation at the appropriate danger
level and matches it against the appropriate response. Grouping situations into
logical categories in this way conforms to principles of educational psychology,
helps officers better understand the use of force, and helps them respond
properly and promptly during stressful situations. This model represents a more
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useful approach than the usual focus only on the use of deadly force and on
firearms training alone. There are five levels to the force continuum: Level 1 –
Presence of a Law Enforcement Officer; Level 2 – Verbal Response; Level 3 –
Empty Hand Techniques; Level 4 – Non-Deadly Weaponry; and Level 5 –
Lethal Force.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police has described use of
force as the "amount of effort required by police to compel compliance by an
unwilling subject". Officers receive guidance from their individual agencies, but
no universal set of rules governs when officers should use force and how
much.
Theoretical Paradigm
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Figure 1. Theoretical Framework of the study.
Conceptual Framework
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This study aimed to assess the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan
City Police Station Extension towards a responsible and effective police
performance. The firearms proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
extension will be measured in terms of proper use of firearm, shooting
accuracy, proper maintenance of firearm and observance of ethical standard.
The proper use of firearm of law enforcers must be strictly followed and
observed. The work of law enforcement officials is a social service of great
importance and there is, therefore, a need to maintain and, whenever
necessary, to improve the working conditions and status of these officials,
whereas a threat to the life and safety of law enforcement officials must be
seen as a threat to the stability of society as a whole. However, law
enforcement officials shall not use firearms against persons except in self-
defense or defense of others against the imminent threat of death or serious
injury, to prevent the perpetration of a particularly serious crime involving grave
threat to life, to arrest a person presenting such a danger and resisting their
arrest.
Police officers may be required to discharge their weapon under physical
duress. The shooting accuracy of law enforcers is greatly important since police
officers perform physical tasks which may include running, jumping, crawling,
balancing, vaulting, climbing, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, fighting,

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dragging and restraining a suspect. Additionally, police officers may be required
to attend to situations of high risk that threaten the wellbeing of themselves,
their colleagues or the general public. Subsequently, optimizing performance in
these situations is of utmost importance.
The proper maintenance of firearm of law enforcers is essential and also
important. Cleaning your firearm as frequently as possible is imperative on so
many levels. Cleaning your gun helps you not only learn about the weapon and
how it works, but it also lets you maintain accuracy, longevity and even your
own safety.
The observance of ethical standard is proper for every law enforcer. Law
enforcement officers must safeguard the public's trust to perform their jobs
effectively. Because ethical conduct greatly impacts public trust, law
enforcement agencies must closely examine their policies, reward systems,
and training to ensure that their agency fosters a culture of firm ethical values.
It within this premise that the researcher has thought of conceptualizing
this study, to identify the variables that will eventually redound to the success of
the challenges of Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
Extension towards a responsible and effective police performance. Below is
Figure 2, showing the relationships among the variables of the study.

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Conceptual Paradigm
PROPER USE OF
FIREARM
FIREARMS
PROFICENCY
OBSERVANCE OF SHOOTING
OF NORTH
ETHICAL CALOOCAN ACCURACY
STANDARD CITY POLICE
STATION
PROPER MAINTENANCE ADEPT AT

OF FIREARM COMMUNICATION
Figure 2. Paradigm of the study showing the relationship

among the variables in the study.
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Definition of Terms
There terms in this study were defined according to their operational use
to obtain a clear, understandable meaning and interpretation on how they are
used.
Adept at Communication. This is the communication skill of North
Caloocan City police officers which is being utilize during their responding to
any crime or when on duty especially when using their firearm.
Effective Police Performance. Effectiveness police performance is the
successful fulfilment of functions of law enforcers such as in the preventing and
investigating crime, protecting vulnerable people, and tackling serious
organized crime.
Firearms. Firearm refers to any handheld or portable weapon, whether
a small arm or light weapon, that expels or is designed to expel a bullet, shot,
slug, missile or any projectile, which is discharged by means of expansive force
of gases from burning gunpowder or other form of combustion or any similar
instrument used by police officers.
Firearms Proficiency. This refers to the high degree of competence or
skill and expertise in the use of exhibited by police officers of North Caloocan
City Police Station Extension.
Gun Safety Awareness. The proper practice of using, transporting,
storing, and disposing of firearms and ammunition, including the training of gun
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users, the design of weapons, and formal and informal regulation of gun
production, distribution, and usage, for the purpose of avoiding unintentional
injury, illness, or death.
Illegal Firearms. These are unregistered firearms, firearms with serial
number removed, stolen, or illegally obtained firearms, automatic weapons or
machine guns in which no proper permit being issued in the use and carry of
the firearm.
Law Enforcement Official. Law enforcement officials are the police
officers responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public order, and managing
public safety of the Philippine National Police. The primary duties of law
enforcement include the investigation, apprehension, and detention of
individuals suspected of criminal offenses.
Observance of Ethical Standard. North Caloocan City Police Station
police officers in observing ethical standards is important which means the
public puts their trust in to law enforcement agencies to be able to perform their
jobs in a responsible, ethical, and effective way. This is essential to effective
crime control and policing communities.
Proper Maintenance of Firearm. This is being practice by police
officers of North Caloocan City Police Station. Such proper maintenance is
performed by the police officer using either simple methods such as cleaning
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the firearm with oil or other cleaning solutions, or more sophisticated practices
such as lubricating moving parts with oil/grease and recoating exposed
surfaces with protective finishes such as varnishing.
Proper Use of Firearm. This refers to the right and appropriate using of
the guns of firearms of police officers of North Caloocan City Police Station in
line with their duties and functions in accordance of the law.
Responsible and Effective Performance. Being responsible police
officers means being dependable, keeping promises and honoring their
mandate and commitments. It is accepting the consequences for what they say
and do. It also means developing their potential. Police officers who are
responsible in their performance don't make excuses for their actions or blame
others when things go wrong.
Shooting Accuracy. Shooting accuracy of North Caloocan City Police
Station police officer refers to how effectively and efficiently performing
shooting activity in targeting their desired point of impact. For instance, how
close shot groups are centered on the target.
Use of force. This is a situation wherein police officers use of force in
law enforcement becomes necessary and is permitted under specific
circumstances, such as in self-defense or in defense of another individual or
group.
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Chapter 3
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
This Chapter presents the methods and procedures, sampling
technique, the data gathering instrument, the data gathering procedure and the
statistical tools used in this study.
Research Design
The study utilized the descriptive research design. This design was
appropriate for the study as it assessed the Firearms Proficiency of North
police performance relative to proper use of firearm, shooting accuracy, proper
maintenance firearm, observance of ethical standard, and adept at
communication. This study used this method of fact-finding study with accurate
interpretation of the data. This method was used by the researcher to interpret
the information from the participants. It is mainly focused on collecting and
analyzing the findings based on the lived experiences of the participants. It also
emphasized what existed such as the current situation, practices, happenings,
or any similar phenomena. Furthermore, the used of descriptive research was

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also suitable for this study because it will test the significant difference between
the two groups of respondents using different variables.
Respondents of the Study
There were two groups of respondents in the study. The first group of
respondents were composed of thirty (30) Police Commissioned Officers (PCO)
while the second group were composed of one hundred twenty (120) Police
Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCO) of North Caloocan City Police Station
including police sub-stations.
Frequency Distribution of the Respondents
Respondents Population
Police Commissioned Officers (PCO) 30
Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCO) 120
Total 150
Sampling Technique
The researcher utilized purposive sampling technique. Purposive
sampling represents a group of different non-probability sampling techniques.
Also known as judgmental, selective, or subjective sampling, purposive
sampling relies on the judgment of the researcher when it comes to selecting
the units that are to be studied. Usually, the sample being investigated is quite
small, especially when compared with probability sampling techniques.

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Unlike the various sampling techniques that can be used
under probability sampling, the goal of purposive sampling is not
to randomly select units from a population to create a sample with the intention
of generalizing from that sample to the population of interest. This is the
general intent of research that is guided by a quantitative research design.
Research Instrument
This study employed a survey questionnaire. The questionnaire was a
self-made questionnaire, but it was patterned from the PNP Handbook on
Using Firearms of the Philippine National Police. However, some items were
revised to suit the present study. Part 1 of the questionnaire determined the
profile of the respondents in terms of age, gender, civil status, highest
educational attainment, and length of service.
Part 2 of the questionnaire determined the assessment of the
respondents on the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
Extension towards a responsible and effective police performance relative to
proper use of firearm, shooting accuracy, proper maintenance firearm,
observance of ethical standard, and adept at communication.
Part 3 dealt with the problems encountered and solutions offered
towards a responsible and effective police performance.
Numerical Scale Range Descriptive Scale

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4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree / Very Serious
3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree / Serious
2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree / Less Serious
1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree / Not Serious
Questionnaire. It is essentially a structured technique for collecting
primary data. It is generally a series of written questions for which the
respondents must provide the answers. Questionnaire allows the researcher to
gather a significant amount of data at relatively little cost. Questionnaire
distributed by post can be posted to the target group, and then the latter can
choose to answer whenever it is most convenient for them.
Data Gathering Procedures
The researcher prepared a letter of permission for the conduct of study
addressed to the Chief of Police of Caloocan City Police Station noted by his
thesis adviser and the Dean of the Graduate School of the University of
Caloocan City.
After permission from concerned authorities, the researcher made a
courtesy call to the Office of the Chief of police prior to the conduct of data
collection. The selected respondents were given questionnaires individually for
them to assess the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
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Extension towards a responsible and effective police performance relative to
proper use of firearm, shooting accuracy, proper maintenance firearm,
observance of ethical standard and adept at communication.
After retrieval of the questionnaires, the responses of the respondents
were objectively recorded, tallied, collated, and finally reviewed with the help
and assistance of a statistician for proper presentation, appropriate analysis
and interpretation.
Validation of Research Instrument
The initial copy of the instrument was presented to the adviser and oral
examination committee. Comments and suggestions were the basis for
improving the instrument.
The content validity of a test was determined reliably by persons
considered competent in the field using the Likert’s Scale to gauge attitudes,
values and opinions. It functions by having a respondent complete a
questionnaire that requires them to indicate the extent to which they agree or
disagree with a series of statements given in this study.
To test the validity of the questionnaire, the researcher conducted a dry
run using fellow police officers. The results of the study were used to make
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certain modifications to make it better before its formal distribution. As a rule,
the researcher sought the permission from the head of the department.
Statistical Treatment of Data
Statistical treatment is a component of data interpretation involving
collection of samples. It will be used to summarize result of the study
undertaken. Data will be tallied, tabulated, analyzed for this study using the
following statistical instruments.
The data that obtained through the survey questionnaire regarding the
profile of the respondents in terms of age, gender, civil status, highest
educational attainment, and length of service were analyzed using the
frequency count and percentage distribution.
The data on the assessment of the Firearms Proficiency of North
police performance relative to proper use of firearm, shooting accuracy, proper
maintenance firearm, observance of ethical standard, and adept at
communication were analyzed using weighted mean. The weighted mean was
further interpreted using the 4-point scale below.
Numerical Scale Range Descriptive Value
4 3.26 – 4.00 Strongly Agree (SA)

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3 2.51 – 3.25 Agree (A)
2 1.76 – 2.50 Disagree (DA)
1 1.00 – 1.75 Strongly Disagree (SD)
To assess the problems encountered by the respondents on the
Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension the
following scale were used:
4 3.26 – 4.00 Very Serious (VS)
3 2.51 – 3.25 Serious (S)
2 1.76 – 2.50 Less Serious (LS)
1 1.00 – 1.75 Not Serious (NS)
Lastly, to assess the recommendations proposed towards a responsible
and effective police performance, the following scale were also used.
4 3.26 – 4.00 Highly Recommended (HR)
3 2.51 – 3.25 Recommended (R)
2 1.76 – 2.50 Less Recommended (LR)
1 1.00 – 1.75 Not Recommended (NR)
Furthermore, t-test was used to correlate significant differences in the
assessment of the different respondents.

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Chapter 4
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
This chapter presents the analysis and interpretation of the data
gathered from the two groups of respondents. The data gathered focused on
the assessment of the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police
Station Extension towards a responsible and effective police performance. The
presentation of data was arranged in the order presented in the statement of
the problems under Chapter 1.
1. Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
As the Philippine National Police gears its thrust towards a more active
police service, the main objective of this proficiency test is for the accounting
of personnel and checking of their issued firearms and to determine the
shooting capabilities of every PNP personnel all over the region. The
adjustment of the level of competence on the firearms proficiency of policemen
amid reports that 90 percent of the 125,000 policemen failed the gun
proficiency test. According to PNP leadership, policemen, especially those
involved in actual police operations against criminals, should have the
precision and accuracy of competitive shooters. Speed, accuracy, and safety
are the primary consideration in marksmanship.

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Table 1
The Assessment on the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City
Police Station Extension in terms of Proper Use of Firearms
PCO PNCO Overall
Indicators Respondents Respondents Assessment
Mean VI Mean VI Mean VI
1. North Caloocan City police officers always
follow the cardinal rules in gun safety when 3.90 SA 3.96 SA 3.93 SA
using their firearms.
treat their guns loaded. 3.81 SA 3.90 SA 3.86 SA
3. North Caloocan City police officers observe
the rule “Do not point your gun to anything 3.71 SA 3.88 SA 3.80 SA
which you are not willing to shoot or destroy”.
4. North Caloocan City police officers assure
of their target and what is around it when 3.86 3.94
SA SA 3.90 SA
shooting.
keep their trigger finger out of the trigger 3.81 SA 3.92 SA 3.87 SA
unless they are ready to fire.
proper grip and maintains proper stance 3.76 SA 3.90 SA 3.83 SA
during firing.
7. North Caloocan City police officers are
familiar with the elements and phases of 3.91 SA 3.92 SA 3.92 SA
aiming in the proper use of firearms.
knowledgeable on the proper use of trigger
control, eye dominance and observe the 3.89 SA 3.86 SA 3.88 SA
proper breathing when firing a gun.
legally aware of the effect of illegally using 3.93 SA 3.93 SA 3.93 SA
their guns when not necessarily needed.
10. North Caloocan City police officers strictly
follow the protocol, laws, and provisions on
proper use of firearms in relation to their 3.90 SA 3.89 SA 3.90 SA
duties and responsibilities as law enforcers.
Overall Assessment 3.85 SA 3.91 SA 3.88 SA
Legend:
3.26 – 4.00 – Strongly Agree (SA) 2.51 – 3.25 – Agree (A)
1.76 – 2.50 – Disagree (DA) 1.00 – 1.75 – Strongly Disagree (SD)
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Table 1 reveals the assessment of the two groups of respondents
on the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension in
terms of Proper Use of Firearms.
As presented from the table, the PCO respondents strongly agreed on
all indicators and they regarded indicator 9 (North Caloocan City police officers
are legally aware of the effect of illegally using their guns when not necessarily
needed) with the highest weighted mean of 3.93 and interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 3 (North Caloocan
City police officers observe the rule “Do not point your gun to anything which
you are not willing to shoot or destroy”) garnered the lowest weighted mean of
3.71 and also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The
overall assessment of the PCO respondents obtained an average computed
weighted mean of 3.85 which is interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE.
On the other hand, the PNCO respondents also strongly agreed on all
the indicators and they regarded indicator 1 (North Caloocan City police
officers always follow the cardinal rules in gun safety when using their
firearms) obtained the highest weighted mean of 3.96 and interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 8 (North Caloocan
City police officers are knowledgeable on the proper use of trigger control, eye
dominance and observe the proper breathing when firing a gun) obtained the
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lowest weighted mean of 3.86 which the respondents interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE. The overall assessment of the PNCO respondents
obtained an average weighted mean of 3.91 which is interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE.
Furthermore, both groups of respondents strongly agreed on all the
indicators and they regarded indicator 1 (North Caloocan City police officers
always follow the cardinal rules in gun safety when using their firearms) and
indicator 9 (North Caloocan City police officers are legally aware of the effect
of illegally using their guns when not necessarily needed) both with the highest
average weighted mean of 3.93 and interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by
the respondents while indicator 3 (North Caloocan City police officers observe
the rule “Do not point your gun to anything which you are not willing to shoot or
destroy”) obtained the lowest average weighted mean of 3.80 which is also
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The overall
assessment of both groups of respondents obtained an average weighted
mean of 3.88 which is interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE. This implies that
police officers of North Caloocan City Police Extension have the familiarity on
the proper use of their firearms. The Philippine National Police strictly adopted
and implemented rules and regulations on the proper use of force and firearms
against persons by their law enforcement officials.

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Table 2
Police Station Extension in terms of Shooting Accuracy
PCO PNCO Overall
1. North Caloocan City police officers keep their
grip high and tight when firing. 3.89 SA 3.90 SA 3.90 SA
2. North Caloocan City police officers hold
handgun with no spaces between their flesh and 3.90 SA 3.88 SA 3.89 SA
when they grip the gun.
3. North Caloocan City police officers hold guns
having no spaces in between their hand and the 3.71 SA 3.85 SA 3.78 SA
gun to prevent movement of the gun when it
recoils.
4. North Caloocan City police officers assure that
the web of their hand should go as high as
possible without interfering with the slide, and 3.89 SA 3.83 SA 3.86 SA
their non-dominant hand should come forward to
fill the empty space on the grip panel when firing
a gun.
5. North Caloocan City police officers are fast
and accurate during handgun shooting and 3.81 SA 3.86 SA 3.84 SA
demand a stable shooting stance.
6. North Caloocan City police officers exhibit
shooting for pure accuracy because they line up 3.76 SA 3.82 SA 3.79 SA
their guns to the front and rear sights of their
target.
7. North Caloocan City police officers practice
dry firing (shooting without live ammo) to help 3.86 SA 3.85 SA 3.86 SA
build their muscle memory that can help them
overcome recoil anticipation.
8. North Caloocan City police officers properly
observe trigger pull being one of the most 3.84 SA 3.92 SA 3.88 SA
important aspects of handgun shooting.
9. North Caloocan City police officers usually
use the center of the pad on their fingertip and 3.83 3.90
SA SA 3.87 SA
the first knuckle joint to press the trigger when
firing.
10. North Caloocan City police officers often do
dry fire drills since it is the single best thing they 3.80 SA 3.94 SA 3.87 SA
can do to improve their handgun accuracy.
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Legend:
Table 2 presents the assessment of the two groups of
respondents on the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
Extension in terms of Shooting Accuracy.
As revealed from the table, the PCO respondents strongly agreed on all
hold handgun with no spaces between their flesh and when they grip the gun)
with the highest weighted mean of 3.90 and interpreted as STRONGLY
AGREE by the respondents while indicator 3 (North Caloocan City police
officers hold guns having no spaces in between their hand and the gun to
prevent movement of the gun when it recoils) garnered the lowest weighted
mean of 3.71 and also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the
respondents. The overall assessment of the PCO respondents obtained an
average computed weighted mean of 3.83 which is interpreted as STRONGLY
AGREE.
officers often do dry fire drills since it is the single best thing they can do to
improve their handgun accuracy) obtained the highest weighted mean of 3.94
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and interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 6
(North Caloocan City police officers exhibit shooting for pure accuracy
because they line up their guns to the front and rear sights of their target)
obtained the lowest weighted mean of 3.86 which the respondents interpreted
as STRONGLY AGREE. The overall assessment of the PNCO respondents
STRONGLY AGREE.
keep their grip high and tight when firing) with the highest average weighted
mean of 3.90 and interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents
while indicator 3 (North Caloocan City police officers hold guns having no
spaces in between their hand and the gun to prevent movement of the gun
when it recoils) obtained the lowest average weighted mean of 3.78 which is
also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The overall
mean of 3.86 which is interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE. This implies that
police officers of North Caloocan City Police Extension possess shooting
accuracy. Accurate handgun shooting places substantial demands on human
nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems because it requires so much

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steadiness and hand-eye coordination. The ability of police officer to
accurately shoot in complex, fastmoving combat situations obviously is vital for
their survival and for the safety of bystanders.
Table 3
Police Station Extension in terms of Proper Maintenance of Firearms
PCO PNCO Overall
1. North Caloocan City police officers practice firearm
maintenance or gun care for short as a periodic 3.79 SA 3.92 SA 3.86 SA
preventive maintenance.
2. North Caloocan City police officers individually
observe maintenance of their own firearm. 3.81 SA 3.93 SA 3.87 SA
3. North Caloocan City police officers use either
simple methods such as cleaning the firearm with oil
or other cleaning solutions, or more sophisticated
practices such as lubricating moving parts with
3.76 SA 3.92 SA 3.84 SA
oil/grease and recoating exposed surfaces with
protective finishes such as varnishing or bluing.
4. North Caloocan City police officers subject their
firearm to professional gunsmith in case of physical 3.67 SA 3.78 SA 3.72 SA
damage or when a firearm malfunctions.
5. North Caloocan City police officers clean the
ordinary firing action since it releases fine particles of 3.62 4.00
gunpowder and metals that will contaminate a
SA SA 3.81 SA
firearm.
6. North Caloocan City police officers believe that
improper maintenance of their firearm may cause
malfunctions or in rarer cases of extreme buildup
may raise the barrel pressure too high causing the
3.86 3.85 SA 3.86 SA
SA
firearm to explode (catastrophic failure) upon being
fired.
7. North Caloocan City police officers are aware that
their firearms without a spring to control the inertia of
the firing pin require constant cleaning of the bolt SA SA 3.87 SA
assembly, as extremely dangerous phenomena such
3.83 3.90
as slam fire may occur.
8. North Caloocan City police officers regularly
inspect and maintain their firearm to prevent slam fire 3.90 SA 3.88 SA 3.89 SA
which is a malfunction in firearm.
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9. North Caloocan City police officers are provided
detailed information of the issued firearm to the 3.88 3.85
pertaining to the proper methods used to SA SA 3.87 SA
disassemble, clean, and then reassemble their
firearm.
10. North Caloocan City police officers perform
lubrication of their firearms using the standard military 3.88 SA 3.80 SA 3.84 SA
or police issued lubricant.
Legend:
Table 3 shows the assessment of the two groups of respondents
terms of Proper Maintenance of Firearms.
As indicated from the table, the PCO respondents strongly agreed on all
regularly inspect and maintain their firearm to prevent slam fire which is a
malfunction in firearm) with the highest weighted mean of 3.90 and interpreted
as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 4 (North Caloocan
City police officers subject their firearm to professional gunsmith in case of
physical damage or when a firearm malfunctions) garnered the lowest
weighted mean of 3.67 and also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the
average computed weighted mean of 3.80 which is interpreted as STRONGLY
AGREE.
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officers clean the ordinary firing action since it releases fine particles of
gunpowder and metals that will contaminate a firearm) obtained the highest
weighted mean of 4.00 and interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the
respondents while indicator 4 (North Caloocan City police officers subject their
firearm to professional gunsmith in case of physical damage or when a firearm
malfunctions) obtained the lowest weighted mean of 3.78 which the
respondents interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE. The overall assessment of
the PNCO respondents obtained an average weighted mean of 3.88 which is
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE.
regularly inspect and maintain their firearm to prevent slam fire which is a
malfunction in firearm) with the highest average weighted mean of 3.89 and
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 4
(North Caloocan City police officers subject their firearm to professional
gunsmith in case of physical damage or when a firearm malfunctions) obtained
the lowest average weighted mean of 3.72 which is also interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The overall assessment of both

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groups of respondents obtained an average weighted mean of 3.84 which is
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE. This implies that police officers of North
Caloocan City Police Extension properly maintained their firearms. It is
imperative that police officers keep their firearm clean. Multiple firings cause
the powder residue and other grime and gases to build up in the action and on
the barrel. Over time, this can affect the performance of their gun, which can
become unreliable and unpredictable in terms of performance.
Table 4
Police Station Extension in terms of Observance of Ethical Standard
PCO PNCO Overall
1. North Caloocan City police officers generally
issue a verbal warning before they use force 3.88 SA 3.91 SA 3.90 SA
against any offender.
2. North Caloocan City police officers only use
force as would be necessary and reasonable to
overcome resistance put up by the offender; 3.91 SA 3.87 SA 3.89 SA
subdue the clear and imminent danger posed by
him.
their firearms if the suspect poses an imminent 3.62 3.75
SA SA 3.69 SA
danger of causing death or injury to them or other
persons.
4. North Caloocan City police officers use their
firearms as a form of self-defense when there is a 3.86 3.94
SA SA 3.90 SA
real threat to their life and where the danger sought
to be avoided is imminent and real.
5. North Caloocan City police officers specifically
follow the Operational Procedure that when a
suspect is violent or threatening, and that less 3.85 SA 3.81 SA 3.83 SA
physical measures have been tried and deemed
inappropriate, a more extreme, but non-deadly
measure can be used against them.
observe the rights of the offender or suspects 3.80 SA 3.90 SA 3.85 SA
during their apprehension.
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7. North Caloocan City police officers exercise
always ethical standard in the performance of their 3.83 SA 3.90 SA 3.87 SA
duty relative to the use of their firearm.
8. North Caloocan City police officers adhere to
ethical standard relative to the proper use of their 3.63 SA 3.89 SA 3.76 SA
firearms.
9. North Caloocan City police officers observe the
use of firearm which is justified under the doctrines 3.85 SA 3.86 SA 3.86 SA
of self-defense, defense of a relative, and defense
of a stranger.
issue a verbal warning before it can use force 3.87 SA 3.85 SA 3.86 SA
against the offender.
Legend:
terms of Observance of Ethical Standard.
As presented from the table, the PCO respondents strongly agreed on
all indicators and they regarded indicator 2 (North Caloocan City police officers
only use force as would be necessary and reasonable to overcome resistance
put up by the offender; subdue the clear and imminent danger posed by him)
with the highest weighted mean of 3.91 and interpreted as STRONGLY
officers adhere to ethical standard relative to the proper use of their firearms)
garnered the lowest weighted mean of 3.63 and also interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The overall assessment of the PCO

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respondents obtained an average computed weighted mean of 3.81 which is
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE.
Likewise, the PNCO respondents also strongly agreed on all the
use their firearms as a form of self-defense when there is a real threat to their
life and where the danger sought to be avoided is imminent and real) obtained
the highest weighted mean of 3.94 and interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by
the respondents while indicator 3 (North Caloocan City police officers only use
their firearms if the suspect poses an imminent danger of causing death or
injury to them or other persons) obtained the lowest weighted mean of 3.75
which the respondents interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE. The overall
assessment of the PNCO respondents obtained an average weighted mean of
3.87 which is interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE.
use their firearms as a form of self-defense when there is a real threat to their
life and where the danger sought to be avoided is imminent and real) with the
highest average weighted mean of 3.93 and interpreted as STRONGLY
officers only use their firearms if the suspect poses an imminent danger of
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causing death or injury to them or other persons) obtained the lowest average
weighted mean of 3.69 which is also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by
the respondents. The overall assessment of both groups of respondents
STRONGLY AGREE. This implies that police officers of North Caloocan City
Police Extension strictly observe the ethical standards in relation to the proper
use of their firearms. Observance of ethical standard to police officers play a
vital role and have severe impact on both of his official and personal life.
Table 5
Police Station Extension in terms of Adept at Communication
PCO PNCO Overall
1. North Caloocan City police officers can take
direction and work well with others. 3.81 SA 3.92 SA 3.87 SA
2. North Caloocan City police officers are highly
skilled or well-trained individual in terms of using 3.79 SA 3.90 SA 3.85 SA
their firearms.
their firearms upon proper communication with 3.75 SA 3.89 SA 3.82 SA
the leader of their team during responding a
crime.
4. North Caloocan City police officers use
communication to build trust, create 3.86 SA 3.80 SA 3.83 SA
transparency and foster an atmosphere of
mutual respect and empathy.
5. In the field and on duty, two-radio radios keep
North Caloocan City police officers 3.84 SA 3.85 SA 3.84 SA
communicating all the time.
observe the proper ethics of communication 3.71 SA 3.86 SA 3.79 SA
especially when using their firearms.
7. North Caloocan City police officers always SA SA 3.90 SA
practice crucial verbal and nonverbal 3.84 3.95
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conversation habits to set the stage for effective
communication among them.
8. North Caloocan City police officers include
eye contact, body position, voice tone, facial
expressions, gestures, physical distance, and 3.80 SA 3.94 SA 3.87 SA
physical contact in their expression during
proper communication.
being concise and getting to the point when 3.90 SA 3.93 SA 3.92 SA
communicating during response to a crime.
10. North Caloocan City police officers have
good communication which helps their fellow
officers to adjust to the physical and social 3.88 SA 3.90 SA 3.89 SA
aspects of their work.
Legend:
terms of Adept at Communication.
As shown from the table, the PCO respondents strongly agreed on all
observe being concise and getting to the point when communicating during
response to a crime) with the highest weighted mean of 3.90 and interpreted
as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 6 (North Caloocan
City police officers strictly observe the proper ethics of communication
especially when using their firearms) garnered the lowest weighted mean of
3.71 and also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The
overall assessment of the PCO respondents obtained an average computed

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officers always practice crucial verbal and nonverbal conversation habits to set
the stage for effective communication among them) obtained the highest
respondents while indicator 4 (North Caloocan City police officers use
communication to build trust, create transparency and foster an atmosphere of
mutual respect and empathy) obtained the lowest weighted mean of 3.80
which the respondents interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE. The overall
3.89 which is interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE.
observe being concise and getting to the point when communicating during
response to a crime) with the highest average weighted mean of 3.92 and
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator 6
(North Caloocan City police officers strictly observe the proper ethics of
communication especially when using their firearms) obtained the lowest
average weighted mean of 3.79 which is also interpreted as STRONGLY
AGREE by the respondents. The overall assessment of both groups of

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respondents obtained an average weighted mean of 3.86 which is interpreted
as STRONGLY AGREE. This implies that police officers of North Caloocan
City Police Extension possess communication skills. Communication allows
officers the ability to better manage evidence by interrogating witnesses and
suspects and gathering information. This allows them to make quick and
informed decisions. Police officers need to communicate effectively to provide
meaningful guidance to officers. Good communication skills are important for
conveying the result.
2. Test of significant difference in the assessment of the two groups of

respondents on the Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police
Station extension
Table 6
T-test results on the comparison of the assessment
of the two groups of respondents
Dimensions Critical Computed Decision

T-values T-Values
Proper use of Reject Ho at .05
Firearm 1.9737 2.2123 level Significant
Shooting Reject Ho at .05
Accuracy 1.8131 2.0950 level Significant
Proper Maintenance Reject Ho at .05
of Firearm 1.2045 2.1715 level Significant
Observance of ethical Reject Ho at .05
standard 1.2089 1.9452 level Significant
Adept at Reject Ho at .05
Communication 1.2150 1.8273 level Significant
α=0.05 level of significance
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The assessments of the two groups of respondents were compared on the
different variables used in this study. The five variables revealed that there is
significant difference in their assessment since computed t-values are greater
than the critical value, there is statistical significance and hence, the rejection
of the null hypothesis at .05 level. This implies that both groups of respondents
the have different perception on their assessment of all the variables used in
this study. Also, both groups of respondents assess the Firearms Proficiency
of North Caloocan City Police Station extension based on their personal
experiences.
3. Problems Encountered in the implementation of gun safety awareness

in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
Table 7
Problems Encountered in the Implementation of Gun Safety Awareness in
North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
PCO PNCO Overall

CHALLENGES Respondents Respondents Assessment Rank
1, Lack of experience of police
officers on the proper use of their 1.87 LS 2.61 S 2.24 LS 7
firearms.
2. Firearms malfunctioning due to
improper maintenance. 2.70 S 2.53 S 2.61 S 2
3. The use of defective firearms
which result to accidental firing. 2.80 S 2.55 S 2.68 S 1
4. Accidental fired discharge due to
mishandling of firearms. 2.00 LS 2.28 LS 2.14 LS 8
5. Poor storage of firearms by
police officers. 1.74 NS 2.19 LS 1.97 LS 9
6. Police officers using their
firearms when under the influence 2.34 LS 2.60 S 2.47 LS 3
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of alcohol or drugs.
7. Lack of shooting accuracy of
police officers. 2.19 LS 2.53 S 2.36 LS 4
8. Irresponsible or negligent gun
use by police officers. 1.90 LS 2.75 S 2.32 LS 5
9. Wrong site alignment of police
officer when firing. 1.55 NS 2.00 LS 1.78 LS 10
10. Wrong trigger pull of the police
officer. 2.45 LS 2.14 LS 2.30 LS 6
Overall Assessment 2.15 LS 2.41 LS 2.26 LS
Legend:
3.26 – 4.00 – Very Serious (VS) 2.51 – 3.25 – Serious (S)
1.76 – 2.50 – Less Serious (LS) 1.00 – 1.75 – Not Serious (NS)
Table 7 reveals the assessment of the two groups of respondents on the
Problems Encountered in the implementation of gun safety awareness in North
Caloocan City Police Station Extension.
As indicated from the table, the PCO respondents regarded indicator 3
(The use of defective firearms which result to accidental firing) with the highest
weighted mean of 2.80 and interpreted as SERIOUS by the respondents while
indicator 9 (Wrong site alignment of police officer when firing) obtained the
lowest weighted mean of 1.55 and interpreted as NOT SERIOUS by the
average computed weighted mean of 2.15 interpreted as LESS SERIOUS.
However, the PNCO respondents regarded indicator 8 (Irresponsible or
negligent gun use by police officers) obtained the highest weighted mean of
2.75 and interpreted as SERIOUS by the respondents while indicator 9 (Wrong
site alignment of police officer when firing) obtained the lowest weighted mean
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of 2.00 which the respondents interpreted as LESS SERIOUS. The overall
2.41 which is interpreted as LESS SERIOUS.
Furthermore, it can be deduced from the table the overall assessment of
both groups of respondents and they regarded indicator 3 (The use of defective
firearms which result to accidental firing) with the highest average weighted
mean of 2.68 and interpreted as SERIOUS by the respondents wherein
indicator 9 (Wrong site alignment of police officer when firing) obtained the
lowest average weighted mean of 1.78 which is interpreted as LESS SERIOUS
by the respondents. The overall assessment of both groups of respondents
obtained an average weighted mean of 2.26 which is interpreted as LESS
SERIOUS. This implies that despite the firearms proficiency of police officers of
North Caloocan City Police Station Extension there are still problems
encountered by both groups of respondents.
Solutions offered on the problems encountered in the Implementation of

Gun Safety Awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
Table 8
Solutions Offered on the Problems Encountered in the Implementation of
Gun Safety Awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
PRC Blood Overall

Proposed Solutions Staff Donors Assessment
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1. Newly recruits police officers may undergo
intensive trainings on the proper use of firearms to 3.86 HR 3.94 HR 3.90 HR
enhance their knowledge and understanding of
firearms.
2. Police officers after using their firearms may
immediately clean it to remove dust cause by the
gun powder and regularly check the magazine if it 3.88 HR 3.90 HR 3.89 HR
is in good condition particularly the spring of the
gun.
3. Police officers may not apply any kind of oil in
their ammunition and to ensure the effectivity of 3.98 HR 3.92 HR 3.95 HR
the ammunition it is highly recommended to
dispose the firearm after 3 to 6 months of
continuous use.
4. Police officers may have to avoid resting their
fingers on the trigger of their guns rather than
keeping their finger off the trigger since some 3.84 HR 3.87 HR 3.86 HR
triggers are extremely sensitive, and just a little bit
of pressure can cause an accidental discharge.
5. Police officers may be more responsible in
taking care of their firearms and never leave their
weapons unattended or just laying around. Guns
need to be treated as if they're always loaded and 3.85 HR 3.84 HR 3.85 HR
given their due respect. Make sure that their guns
are always properly stored, and you know where
they are and always keep it away from children.
6. There may be strict implementation of no duty
when under alcoholism nor drugs since alcohol
and other controlled substances affect their 3.84 HR 3.88 HR 3.86 HR
coordination, vision, and decision-making skills
when conducting police operation.
7. Police officers may undergo shooting trainings
to increase their firearm proficiency and accuracy
since some law enforcement officer committed
missed fire by hitting the bystander during police 3.81 HR 3.96 HR 3.89 HR
operation because of poor accuracy technique in
firing.
8. Police officers may at all times observe and
instill the value of responsibility when dealing with 3.86 HR 3.90 HR 3.88 HR
their firearms.
9. The need for skill enhancement for police
officers committing wrong site alignment may be
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necessary to improve his shooting skills and 3.70 HR 3.60 HR 3.65 HR
accuracy.
10. Regular firearm exercise may be required to
avoid wrong trigger pull. 3.90 HR 3.92 HR 3.91 HR
Overall Assessment 3.85 HR 3.87 HR 3.86 HR
Legend:
3.26 – 4.00 – Highly Recommended (HR) 2.51 – 3.25 – Recommended (R)
1.76 – 2.50 – Less Recommended (LR) 1.00 – 1.75 – Not Recommended (NR)
Table 8 shows the assessment of the two groups of respondents on the
Solutions offered on the problems encountered in the Implementation of Gun
Safety Awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension.
The PCO respondents highly recommended all the indicators and they
regarded indicator 3 (Police officers may not apply any kind of oil in their
ammunition and to ensure the effectivity of the ammunition it is highly
recommended to dispose the firearm after 3 to 6 months of continuous use)
with the highest weighted mean of 3.98 which is interpreted as HIGLY
RECOMMENDED. The overall weighted mean from the PCO respondents has
a weighted mean of 3.85 and it is verbally interpreted as HIGHLY
RECOMMENDED.
Also, the PNCO respondents highly recommended all the indicators and
also regarded indicator 1 (Newly recruits police officers may undergo intensive
trainings on the proper use of firearms to enhance their knowledge and
understanding of firearms) with the highest weighted mean of 3.94 and verbally
interpreted as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The overall weighted mean is 3.87

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which is verbally interpreted as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED from the
respondents.
Furthermore, the two groups of respondents highly recommended all the
indicators and regarded indicator 3 (Police officers may not apply any kind of oil
in their ammunition and to ensure the effectivity of the ammunition it is highly
with the highest weighted mean of 3.95 which is verbally interpreted as
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED wherein indicator 9 (The need for skill
enhancement for police officers committing wrong site alignment may be
necessary to improve his shooting skills and accuracy) has the lowest weighted
mean of 3.65 which verbally interpreted as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. As the
result on the assessment of the two groups obtained an overall weighted mean
of 3.86 which is verbally interpreted as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. This implies
that proposed solutions being offered will help resolve issues on the
implementation of gun safety awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station
Extension.
4. Test of significant difference on the problems encountered and

solutions offered by respondents in the Implementation of Gun Safety
Awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
Table 9
t-Test showing the significant difference on the problems
encountered and solutions offered of the two groups of respondents
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Indicators Calculated Critical Decision Sig.

t- value (Tabular) In the H0
T
Challenges
Encountered 2.2313 1.0013 Rejected Significant
Proposed
Solutions 2.2131 1.0434 Rejected Significant
α=.05 level of significance
Table 9 reveals the test of significant difference in the assessment of
the problems encountered and solutions offered by respondents in the
Extension. As revealed from the table, all variables showed significant
relationship between the two groups of respondents since the computed t-
values are higher than tabular t-value, this means null hypothesis is being
rejected therefore alternate hypothesis is accepted. This implies that the two
groups of respondents expressed differently their perceptions on the problems
encountered and their corresponding solutions on the implementation of
Extension.
5. Proposed recommendations towards responsible and effective

performance of police function
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Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations may
be proposed towards responsible and effective performance of police function.
1. North Caloocan City Police Station Extension may have appropriate
procedures supporting and increasing the work effectiveness of their police
officers which tend to receive a good return and achieve rapid, effective,
and sustainable professionalism.
2. The current system for considering high ethical standard in North Caloocan
City Police Station Extension may be improved and adjusted to be fairer
and clearer by using real values of work performance to identify what are
called key performance indicators.
3. Encouragement is crucial to the work performance of the North Caloocan
City Police Station Extension police officers. Improvement in their work
conditions and benefits relative to the costs of living is one effective way to
encourage them to become more effective and responsible law enforcers.
4. The rules and regulations associated with work may be modified to be more
in tune with the North Caloocan City Police Station Extension police officers
and their work circumstances.
5. Police manpower rates may be suitable to their workload. Referring to the
imbalance of police manpower rates and workloads in North Caloocan City
Police Station Extension may hamper their effectiveness and efficiency.

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6. Adequate budgets for purchasing enough new, modern, and capable
materials and tools for work use should be allocated to match the
requirements of in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension police
officers. Otherwise, the scarcity of necessary equipment, materials, and
work tools would reduce the effectiveness of the work performance of
police officers.
Chapter 5
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter contains the findings from the gathered data; drawn
conclusions from the findings and recommendations. This part presents the
results of the answers to the problems presented in Chapter 1.
Also, this chapter summarized the findings of the study in relation to the
statement of the problem. Conclusions were presented and recommendations
were offered based on the relevant results of this research in assessing the
Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension towards a
responsible and effective police performance.
Summary of Findings
Based on the gathered data, the findings of the study are formulated.
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1. Assessment on Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station
Extension
1.1 In terms of Proper Use of Firearms
The two groups of respondents strongly agreed on all the indicators and
they regarded indicator (North Caloocan City police officers always follow the
cardinal rules in gun safety when using their firearms) and indicator (North
Caloocan City police officers are legally aware of the effect of illegally using
their guns when not necessarily needed) both with the highest average
respondents while indicator (North Caloocan City police officers observe the
rule “Do not point your gun to anything which you are not willing to shoot or
destroy”) obtained the lowest average weighted mean of 3.80 which is also
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The overall
mean of 3.88 which is interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE.
1.2 In terms of Shooting Accuracy
they regarded indicator (North Caloocan City police officers keep their grip high
and tight when firing) with the highest average weighted mean of 3.90 and
interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator (North
Caloocan City police officers hold guns having no spaces in between their hand
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and the gun to prevent movement of the gun when it recoils) obtained the
lowest average weighted mean of 3.78 which is also interpreted as STRONGLY
AGREE by the respondents. The overall assessment of both groups of
respondents obtained an average weighted mean of 3.86 which is interpreted
as STRONGLY AGREE.
1.3 In terms of Proper Maintenance of Firearm
they regarded indicator (North Caloocan City police officers regularly inspect
and maintain their firearm to prevent slam fire which is a malfunction in firearm)
with the highest average weighted mean of 3.89 and interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator (North Caloocan City
police officers subject their firearm to professional gunsmith in case of physical
damage or when a firearm malfunctions) obtained the lowest average weighted
mean of 3.72 which is also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the
respondents. The overall assessment of both groups of respondents obtained
an average weighted mean of 3.84 which is interpreted as STRONGLY
AGREE.
1.4 In terms of Observance of Ethical Standard

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they regarded indicator (North Caloocan City police officers use their firearms
as a form of self-defense when there is a real threat to their life and where the
danger sought to be avoided is imminent and real) with the highest average
respondents while indicator (North Caloocan City police officers only use their
firearms if the suspect poses an imminent danger of causing death or injury to
them or other persons) obtained the lowest average weighted mean of 3.69
which is also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The
overall assessment of both groups of respondents obtained an average
1.5 In terms of Adept at Communication
they regarded indicator (North Caloocan City police officers observe being
concise and getting to the point when communicating during response to a
crime) with the highest average weighted mean of 3.92 and interpreted as
STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents while indicator (North Caloocan City
police officers strictly observe the proper ethics of communication especially
when using their firearms) obtained the lowest average weighted mean of 3.79
which is also interpreted as STRONGLY AGREE by the respondents. The

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overall assessment of both groups of respondents obtained an average
2. Significant difference on the assessment of the two groups of respondents

on Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
relative to the five variables
The five variables revealed that there is significant difference in their
assessment since computed t-values are greater than the critical value, there is
statistical significance and hence, the rejection of the null hypothesis at .05
level.
3. The Problems Encountered and Solutions that may be offered in the

Extension
The overall assessment of both groups of respondents regarded
indicator (The use of defective firearms which result to accidental firing) with
the highest average weighted mean of 2.68 and interpreted as SERIOUS by
the respondents wherein indicator (Wrong site alignment of police officer when
firing) obtained the lowest average weighted mean of 1.78 which is interpreted
as LESS SERIOUS by the respondents. The overall assessment of both
groups of respondents obtained an average weighted mean of 2.26 which is
interpreted as LESS SERIOUS.

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The two groups of respondents highly recommended all the indicators
and regarded indicator (Police officers may not apply any kind of oil in their
ammunition and to ensure the effectivity of the ammunition it is highly
with the highest weighted mean of 3.95 which is verbally interpreted as
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED wherein indicator (The need for skill enhancement
for police officers committing wrong site alignment may be necessary to
improve his shooting skills and accuracy) has the lowest weighted mean of
3.65 which verbally interpreted as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. As the result on
the assessment of the two groups obtained an overall weighted mean of 3.86
which is verbally interpreted as HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
4. Significant difference on the problems encountered and solutions offered by

respondents in the implementation of gun safety awareness in North Caloocan
City Police Station Extension
All variables showed significant relationship between the two groups of
respondents since the computed t-values are higher than tabular t-value, this
means null hypothesis is being rejected therefore alternate hypothesis is
accepted.
Conclusions
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Based on the gathered data and findings, conclusions of the study are
formulated.
1. North Caloocan City police officers always observe the golden rules on
properly using their firearms.
2. North Caloocan City police officers possess the skills and ability for them to
maintain their shooting accuracy.
3. North Caloocan City police officers are responsible in regularly inspecting
and maintaining their firearm to prevent slam fire which is a malfunction in
firearm.
4. North Caloocan City police officers observe the proper ethical standard on
using their firearms as a form of self-defense when there is a real threat to
their life and where the danger sought to be avoided is imminent and real.
5. North Caloocan City police officers observe being concise and getting to the
point when communicating during response to a crime.
6. There is significant difference on the assessment of the two groups of
respondents on all the variables.
7. There were serious to less serious problems encountered by both groups of
respondents.
8. All indicators on solutions offered to the problems encountered were highly
recommended by both groups of respondents.

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Recommendations
Based on the gathered data, findings, and the conclusions of the study,
below are the recommendations:
1. The police officers of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension may
have to always observe the rule of not pointing their gun to anything which
they are not willing to shoot or destroy.
have to maintain their shooting accuracy through constant training and
practice when necessary.
always request for inspection of their firearm to professional gunsmith in
case of physical damage or when a firearm malfunctions.
always be responsible in observing the proper ethical standards especially
on the use of their firearms.
have to attend seminars, schooling, and the like to improve their
communication skills which is vital in their police operations.

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6. It is further recommended to adopt the proposed recommendations as
presented in Chapter 4 towards a responsible and effective police
performance.
7. Lastly, it is highly recommended that a similar study be conducted in other
police station in Metro Manila to determine other areas of Firearms
Proficiency, to determine the underlying problems and validate their
reliability.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
A. Books
J C Desmedt, Joseph C. (1984). Use of Force Paradigm for Law Enforcement

NCJ Number 94147 Journal Journal of Police Science and
Administration Volume: 12 Issue: 2 170-176
Hogg, Ian V. (2019). Military Small Arms of the 20th Century (7th ed.). Iola,
Wisconsin: Krause Publications. ISBN 978-0-87341-824-9., p. 291
Nolledo, Jose. N. (2018), The New Police Act of 1998: Republic Act 8551, Rex
Bookstore, Manila.
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73
Rowhani-Rahbar, (2020). “Formal Firearm Training Among Adults in the USA:
Results of a National Survey,” Injury Prevention, Vol. 24, No. 2, 2020,
pp. 161–165.
Philippine National Police Ethical Doctrine Manual. PNPM 0-08-95 DHRDD
B. Published and Unpublished Thesis
Cole, Joseph (2020). The Effects of Firearm Safety Training Requirements.

Gun Policy in America, Objective Analysis Effective Solutions.
Fritsvold, Erick (2021). Police Communication Skills Matter More Than Ever:
Here’s Why. University of San Diego, California USA
Mason, Bruce R. (2020). Factors Affecting Accuracy in Pistol Shooting.

Australian Institute of Sport, Volume 6 Number 4. Australian Institute of
Sport.
Mendoza, Ronald (2018). Diagnosing factors behind officers’ performance in

the Philippine National Police. Police Practice and Research, An
International Journal, Volume 22, 2021 - Issue 4 2018.
Newburn, Thomas (2019), Understanding and preventing police corruption:

lessons from the literature’, Police Research Series Paper 110, B.
Webb, Ed., Policing and Reducing Crime Unit Research, Development
and Statistics Directorate, London, pp. 1-56.
Ortega, Jennifer S. (2019). Gun Proliferation and Violence, Complicating

Dynamics, and Peace Building.
Peterson, Samuel (2020). Law Enforcement Approaches for Reducing Gun

Violence. Gun Policy in America. RAND Publishing, USA
Thomasson, John (2019). An Analysis of Firearms Training Performance

among Active Law Enforcement Officers, University of Arkansas,
Fayetteville
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Varona, Glenn T. (2020). Towards Improving Ethics and Governance in The
Philippine National Police: A Critical Systemic Review, Flinders
University of South Australia
Woods, James T. (2019). New study on shooting accuracy: How does your
agency stack up? Force Science Institute (FSI), USA
C. Journals
Año, Eduardo M. (2018). Brgy tanods not allowed to carry firearms; Brgy
captains liable for tanods under their supervision. Department of Interior
and Local Government (DILG)
Balmore, Jean (2020). Safety and Maintenance of Firearms, The Old School .
Brewhouse Hill . Wheathampstead . Herts AL4 8AN . UK
Caliwan, Christopher L. (2020).PNP makes gains in maintaining peace, order

amid Covid-19. Philippine News Agency, Manila.
Diega, Alladin S. (2021).Loose firearms: Linchpin for gun-related violence. The

broader look, Business Mirror
Enriquez, John (2020). Breaking Down the Language Barrier for Better
Communication. The USD LEPSL program offers a top-quality masters
level education at a very reasonable price. It is a value price when you
consider. University of California Police Department
Hemenway, David (2020). Importance of firearms research. Health Policy and

Management, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
2115, USA
Jacome, Paul (2021) The LEPSL program has been a great experience and
has taught me some very relevant information about law enforcement.
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
Taylor, Morgan (2019).Firearm Maintenance: How to care for your firearm,

4990 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Johnstown, CO 80534, NCRJS Journal.
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Valeriano, Colie N. D. (2020), ‘Military operations’, Counter-Guerrilla
Operations in the Philippines: A Seminar on the Huk Campaign Held at
Ft. Bragg, N.C., 15 June 1961, P. Wolf, Compiler, P. Wolf, 2002-2004,
pp. 21-31.
D. Other Sources
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG, 2018). dilg.gov.ph
Philippine National Police Manual (PNP) PNPM 0-08-95 DHRDD. pnp.gov.ph
Philippine News Agency (2020) pna.gov.ph
Appendix A
Letter to Conduct the Study
March 15, 2022
PCOL SAMUEL V MINA

Chief of Police
Caloocan City Police Station
Dear Sir Mina:

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Greetings!
The undersigned is presently conducting a thesis for his master’s degree,

Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Major in Criminology, at the
University of Caloocan City, College of Graduate Studies, City of Caloocan.
At this juncture, may I have the honor to request permission to administer my

questionnaire, entitled: “THE FIREARMS PROFICIENCY OF NORTH
CALOOCAN CITY POLICE STATION EXTENSION TOWARDS A
RESPONSIBLE AND EFFECTIVE POLICE PERFORMANCE” to PCO and
PNCO members of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension as my
respondents, as partial requirement for my master’s degree. Rest assured that
the data gathered will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
Your utmost support and cooperation is highly appreciated.
Thank you.
Very Truly Yours,
EDUARDO L. FRIAS
Researcher
Appendix B
Letter to the Respondents
March 20, 2022
Dear Respondents,
Greetings!
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The undersigned is presently conducting a thesis for his master’s degree,

Master of Science in Criminal Justice Major in Criminology, at the
University of Caloocan City, College of Graduate Studies, City of Caloocan.
At this juncture, you are humbly requested to answer all the items and
questions as completely and as honestly as possible to this questionnaire,
entitled, “THE FIREARMS PROFICIENCY OF NORTH CALOOCAN CITY
POLICE STATION EXTENSION TOWARDS A RESPONSIBLE AND
EFFECTIVE POLICE PERFORMANCE.” This is a partial requirement for my
master’s degree. Rest assured that the data gathered will be treated with
utmost confidentiality.
Your utmost support and cooperation is highly appreciated.
Thank you.
Very Truly Yours,
EDUARDO FRIAS
Researcher
Appendix C
The Questionnaire
Part I. Profile. DIRECTION: Please provide all pertinent information to the

items below by checking (✓) the appropriate blanks indicated therein”
Name: ___________________________________________________
(Optional)
RESPONDENT’S CATEGORY (please check below)

( ) PCO ( ) PNCO
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LENGTH OF SERVICE IN TERMS OF YEARS
( ) 0-5 years ( ) 6-10 years ( ) 11-15 years
( )16-29 years ( ) 21-25 years ( ) 26-years and above
GENDER: ( ) Male ( ) Female
AGE: ( ) 21-30 ( ) 4I-50

( ) 31-40 ( ) Over 51-above
Civil Status: ( ) Single ( ) Married ( ) Widow
Educational Attainment:
( ) High School Graduate ( ) With Master’s Degree
( ) College Undergraduate ( ) With Doctorate Units
( ) College Graduate ( ) With Doctorate Degree
( ) With Master’s Unit ( ) Others________________
(Please Specify)
PART II. Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station

Extension towards a responsible and effective police performance in
terms of the following variables.
DIRECTIONS: Please put a check mark on the space provided for your answer
using the following scale as your basis:
Point Scale Descriptive Rating
4 Strongly Agree (SA)
3 Agree (A)
2 Disagree (DA)
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1 Strongly Disagree (SD)
1.1. Proper Use of Firearms
Indicators 4 3 2 1
1. North Caloocan City police officers always follow the cardinal
rules in gun safety when using their firearms.
2. North Caloocan City police officers always treat their guns
loaded.
3. North Caloocan City police officers observe the rule “Do not
point your gun to anything which you are not willing to shoot or
destroy”.
4. North Caloocan City police officers assure of their target and
what is around it when shooting.
5. North Caloocan City police officers always keep their trigger
finger out of the trigger unless they are ready to fire.
6. North Caloocan City police officers observe proper grip and
maintains proper stance during firing.
7. North Caloocan City police officers are familiar with the
elements and phases of aiming in the proper use of firearms.
8. North Caloocan City police officers are knowledgeable on the
proper use of trigger control, eye dominance and observe the
proper breathing when firing a gun.
9. North Caloocan City police officers are legally aware of the
effect of illegally using their guns when not necessarily needed.
10. North Caloocan City police officers strictly follow the protocol,
laws and provisions on proper use of firearms in relation to their
duties and responsibilities as law enforcers.
1.2. Shooting Accuracy
Indicators 4 3 2 1
1. North Caloocan City police officers keep their grip
high and tight when firing.
2. North Caloocan City police officers hold handgun
with no spaces between their flesh and when they
grip the gun.
3. North Caloocan City police officers hold guns
having no spaces in between their hand and the gun
to prevent movement of the gun when it recoils.
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4. North Caloocan City police officers assure that the
web of their hand should go as high as possible
without interfering with the slide, and their non-
dominant hand should come forward to fill the empty
space on the grip panel when firing a gun.
5. North Caloocan City police officers are fast and
accurate during handgun shooting and demand a
stable shooting stance.
6. North Caloocan City police officers exhibit shooting
for pure accuracy because they line up their guns to
the front and rear sights of their target.
7. North Caloocan City police officers practice dry
firing (shooting without live ammo) to help build their
muscle memory that can help them overcome recoil
anticipation.
8. North Caloocan City police officers properly
observe trigger pull being one of the most important
aspects of handgun shooting.
9. North Caloocan City police officers usually use the
center of the pad on their fingertip and the first
knuckle joint to press the trigger when firing.
10. North Caloocan City police officers often do dry
fire drills since it is the single best thing they can do
to improve their handgun accuracy.
1.3. Proper Maintenance of Firearms
Indicators 4 3 2 1
1. North Caloocan City police officers practice firearm
maintenance or gun care for short as a periodic preventive
maintenance.
2. North Caloocan City police officers individually observe
maintenance of their own firearm.
3. North Caloocan City police officers use either simple
methods such as cleaning the firearm with oil or other
cleaning solutions, or more sophisticated practices such
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as lubricating moving parts with oil/grease and recoating
exposed surfaces with protective finishes such as
varnishing or bluing.
4. North Caloocan City police officers subject their firearm
to professional gunsmith in case of physical damage or
when a firearm malfunctions.
5. North Caloocan City police officers clean the ordinary
firing action since it releases fine particles of gunpowder
and metals that will contaminate a firearm.
6. North Caloocan City police officers believe that
improper maintenance of their firearm may cause
malfunctions or in rarer cases of extreme buildup may
raise the barrel pressure too high causing the firearm to
explode (catastrophic failure) upon being fired.
7. North Caloocan City police officers are aware that their
firearms without a spring to control the inertia of the firing
pin require constant cleaning of the bolt assembly, as
extremely dangerous phenomena such as slam fire may
occur.
8. North Caloocan City police officers regularly inspect
and maintain their firearm to prevent slam fire which is a
malfunction in firearm.
9. North Caloocan City police officers are provided
detailed information of the issued firearm to the pertaining
to the proper methods used to disassemble, clean, and
then reassemble their firearm.
10. North Caloocan City police officers perform lubrication
of their firearms using the standard military or police
issued lubricant.
1.4 Observance of Ethical Standard
Indicators 4 3 2 1
1. North Caloocan City police officers generally issue
a verbal warning before they use force against any
offender.
2. North Caloocan City police officers only use force
as would be necessary and reasonable to overcome
resistance put up by the offender; subdue the clear
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and imminent danger posed by him.
3. North Caloocan City police officers only use their
firearms if the suspect poses an imminent danger of
causing death or injury to them or other persons.
4. North Caloocan City police officers use their
firearms as a form of self-defense when there is a
real threat to their life and where the danger sought
to be avoided is imminent and real.
5. North Caloocan City police officers specifically
follow the Operational Procedure that when a suspect
is violent or threatening, and that less physical
measures have been tried and deemed
inappropriate, a more extreme, but non-deadly
measure can be used against them.
6. North Caloocan City police officers strictly observe
the rights of the offender or suspects during their
apprehension.
7. North Caloocan City police officers exercise
always ethical standard in the performance of their
duty relative to the use of their firearm.
8. North Caloocan City police officers adhere to
ethical standard relative to the proper use of their
firearms.
9. North Caloocan City police officers observe the
use of firearm which is justified under the doctrines of
self-defense, defense of a relative, and defense of a
stranger.
issue a verbal warning before it can use force against
the offender.
1.5 Adept at Communication
Indicators 4 3 2 1
1. North Caloocan City police officers can take
direction and work well with others.
2. North Caloocan City police officers are highly
skilled or well-trained individual in terms of using their
firearms.
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3. North Caloocan City police officers only use their
firearms upon proper communication with the leader
of their team during responding a crime.
4. North Caloocan City police officers use
communication to build trust, create transparency
and foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and
empathy.
5. In the field and on duty, two-radio radios keep
North Caloocan City police officers communicating all
the time.
6. North Caloocan City police officers strictly observe
the proper ethics of communication especially when
using their firearms.
7. North Caloocan City police officers always practice
crucial verbal and nonverbal conversation habits to
set the stage for effective communication among
them.
8. North Caloocan City police officers include eye
contact, body position, voice tone, facial expressions,
gestures, physical distance, and physical contact in
their expression during proper communication.
9. North Caloocan City police officers observe being
concise and getting to the point when communicating
during response to a crime.
10. North Caloocan City police officers have good
communication which helps their fellow officers to
adjust to the physical and social aspects of their
work.
Part III. Problems Encountered in the implementation of gun safety

awareness in North Caloocan City Police Station Extension
Direction: Please feel free to evaluate the problems encountered in the

Firearms Proficiency of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension towards
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a responsible and effective police performance of each statement being
assessed by indicating your personal views on the following statements.
Encircle the number that corresponds to your assessment using the following
legend.
4 Very Serious
3 Serious
2 Less Serious
1 Not Serious
Problems 4 3 2 1
1, Lack of experience of police officers on the proper
use of their firearms.
2. Firearms malfunctioning due to improper
maintenance.
3. The use of defective firearms which result to
accidental firing.
4. Accidental fired discharge due to mishandling of
firearms.
5. Poor storage of firearms by police officers.
6. Police officers using their firearms when under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
7. Lack of shooting accuracy of police officers.
8. Irresponsible or negligent gun use by police
officers.
9. Wrong site alignment of police officer when firing.
10. Wrong trigger pull of the police officer.
Part IV. Solutions offered to the problems encountered in the

implementation of gun safety awareness in North Caloocan City Police
Station Extension.
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Point Scale Descriptive Rating

4 Highly Recommended (HR)
3 Recommended (R)
2 Less Recommended (LR)
1 Not Recommended (NR)
INDICATORS 4 3 2 1
1. Newly recruits police officers may undergo intensive trainings on the
proper use of firearms to enhance their knowledge and understanding of
firearms.
2. Police officers after using their firearms may immediately clean it to
remove dust cause by the gun powder and regularly check the magazine
if it is in good condition particularly the spring of the gun.
3. Police officers may not apply any kind of oil in their ammunition and to
ensure the effectivity of the ammunition it is highly recommended to
dispose the firearm after 3 to 6 months of continuous use.
4. Police officers may have to avoid resting their fingers on the trigger of
their guns rather than keeping their finger off the trigger since some
triggers are extremely sensitive, and just a little bit of pressure can cause
an accidental discharge.
5. Police officers may be more responsible in taking care of their firearms
and never leave their weapons unattended or just laying around. Guns
need to be treated as if they're always loaded and given their due respect.
Make sure that their guns are always properly stored, and you know
where they are and always keep it away from children.
6. There may be strict implementation of no duty when under alcoholism
nor drugs since alcohol and other controlled substances affect their
coordination, vision, and decision-making skills when conducting police
operation.
7. Police officers may undergo shooting trainings to increase their firearm
proficiency and accuracy since some law enforcement officer committed
missed fire by hitting the bystander during police operation because of
poor accuracy technique in firing.
8. Police officers may at all times observe and instill the value of
responsibility when dealing with their firearms.
9. The need for skill enhancement for police officers committing wrong site
alignment may be necessary to improve his shooting skills and accuracy.
10. Regular firearm exercise may be required to avoid wrong trigger pull.
APPENDIX D
PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS
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Table A
Frequency and Percentage of Respondents
Respondents Category Frequency Percentage

PCO 30 20.00%
PNCO 120 80.00%
Total 150 100%
Table B
Relative to Length of Service
Age Frequency Percentage
0 – 5 years 25 16.67%
6 – 10 years 31 20.67%
11 – 15 years 53 35.33%
16 – 20 years 10 6.66%
21 – 25 years 16 10.67%
26 – above 15 10.00%
Total 150 100%
Table C
Relative to Gender
Respondents Category Frequency Percentage

Male 116 77.33%
Female 34 22.67%
Total 150 100%
Table D
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Relative to Age
Age Frequency Percentage

21 – 30 years old 28 18.67%
31 – 40 years old 82 54.67%
41 – 50 years old 33 22.00%
51 – above 7 4.66%
Total 150 100%
Table E
Relative to Civil Status
Civil Status Frequency Percentage
Single 18 12.00%
Married 130 86.67%
Widow 2 1.33%
Total 150 100%
Table F
Relative to Educational Attainment
Educational Attainment Frequency Percentage
College Graduate 78 52.00%
With Master’s Unit 38 25.33%
Masteral Degree 31 20.67%
With Doctorate Units 2 1.33%
Doctorate Degree 1 0.67%
Total 150 100%
APPENDIX E
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LOCALE OF THE STUDY
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CURRICULUM VITAE
2665 Magnolia St., Brgy 174

Area C Camarin Caloocan City
CP# 09429692991
Email: [email protected]
PERSONAL DATA:
Name: Eduardo L. Frias
Date of Birth: July 25, 1962
Place of Birth: Quezon City
Nationality: Filipino
Marital Status: Married
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
2019-2021: MSC 36 units
2013 Completed Master in Business Administration
1997 Completed Bachelor of Science in Criminology
1979 Graduated High school
1975 Graduated Elementary
TRAINING COURSES, SEMINAR AND WORKSHOP:

1. FDA Seminar
2. Human Rights Seminar
3. PNP Men Opposed to Violence
4. Against Women everywhere
5. Summary Hearing and Pre charge Evaluation Procedure
6. Seminar workshop on Development Communication in Law Enforcement
7. Officer Basic Course
8. FJ3D Training and Live firing
9. Seminar for legal officer and SHO of NCRPO
10. Seminar on Laws and Jurisprudence for PNP
11. IDPA Safety Officer Training Class 2009-02
12. PCI and Summary Hearing Seminar
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13. Basic Police Investigation USA
14. Seminar on Omnibus Election Code
15. Firearms Proficiency and Marksmanship Training
16. Public Safety Criminal Investigation and detection course
17. Sem/dialogue on Community Movement and Terrorist Group
18. Administrative Proceeding
19. Criminal Investigation Refresher course
20. Marksmanship Qualification Course
21. Criminal Investigation Seminar
22. Crisis Tactical Operation Course
23. Crime Scene Investigation Course
24. Anti-terrorist Tactical/Firearms Training USA
25. MPF SWAT Training
26. Firearms Proficiency Course M16 Rifle
27. Police Basic Course
28. Citizens Army Training Instructor Course
29. Probationary 2Lieutenant Training Course (CMT 43)
30. Advance ROTC
31. Summer Camp Training Anahaw VIII
32. Basic ROTC
EMPLOYMENT RECORD:
University of Caloocan City Present (Part time)
Our Lady of Fatima University November 2019-2021
Philippine National Police Nov 16, 1987-Retired July 25, 2018
Cieverose College Instructor
St Andrew School CAT Commandant
St Peter School CAT Commandant
Guardian Angel School CAT Commandant
Marymount school CAT Commandant
Holy child Academy CAT Commandant

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UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY Page

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

The global proliferation of small arms is leading to a rise in criminality,

banditry and armed violence which is undermining development. Every day in

report illegal firearms. However, in many countries the resources made

accountable, are insufficient to meet these challenges.

As a result of these pressures and usually due to a lack of training and

unlawful killings and as an instrument of torture and ill-treatment against

criminal suspects. Between 1997 and 2000, Amnesty International received

reports of torture or ill-treatment by state officials in more than 150 countries. In

more than 80 countries, people reportedly died because of their treatment at

loss of cooperation and unwillingness to provide information, which deepens

the breakdown in community safety. Police misuse of weapons may lead

undermining development. In extreme cases, political manipulation, and

corruption of police powers to use force aggravate such situations further,

activists, suppress peaceful protest, and arbitrarily detain government

opponents using firearms.

The work of law enforcement officials is a social service of great

importance and there is, therefore, a need to maintain and, whenever

necessary, to improve the working conditions and status of these officials,

seen as a threat to the stability of society as a whole. The law enforcement

of the person, as guaranteed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and

reaffirmed in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

in self-defense or defense of others against the imminent threat of death or

serious injury, to prevent the perpetration of a particularly serious crime

extreme means is insufficient to achieve these objectives. In any event,

observed, unless to do so would unduly place the law enforcement officials at

be clearly inappropriate or pointless in the circumstances of the incident.

The police officers of North Caloocan City Police Station Extension

systems of accountability, as well as a lack of basic police equipment and

communities, and thus the cycle of violence is being prevented.

There were reported cases of firearm incidents in CAMANAVA area like

Region Police Office (NCRPO) to implement the fastest summary dismissal

repeatedly warned its personnel not to engage in indiscriminate firing during

aggression without resorting to firing guns. A gun is not a passport for

indiscriminate firing. Furthermore, one of the most controversial shooting

incidents occurred in Paniqui, Tarlac, Philippines, when a police officer, Jonel

to the Philippine drug war.

Background of the Study

The Implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act (RA) No.10591,

otherwise known as the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation

Act”, whereas Republic Act No.10591, otherwise known as “The

Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition and Providing penalties for

to formulate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective

implementation of the comprehensive law regulating ownership, possession,

carrying, manufacture, dealing in and importation of firearms, ammunition or

consultation with concerned sectors of the society, said Implementing Rules

due public hearings and consultations, hereby promulgates the following

Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act”. These rules shall be interpreted in

self-defense through, when it is the reasonable means to repel unlawful

State shall provide for a comprehensive law regulating ownership, possession,

carrying, manufacture, dealing in and importation of firearms, ammunition, or

parts thereof, in order to provide legal support to law enforcement agencies in

their campaign against crime, stop the proliferation of illegal firearms or

weapons and the illegal manufacture of firearms or weapons, ammunition and

Care and Maintenance of Issued Firearms. This Letter of Instructions provides

the guidelines to be undertaken by concerned PNP Units/Offices in the conduct

of proper care and maintenance of PNP issued firearms. As of 3rd Quarter of