Napolcom Plans Scholarships for Children of Active Police Officers

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) is considering expanding scholarship programs to include children of active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Napolcom's vice chairperson and executive officer, Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan, made this announcement following the deaths of two policemen in the line of duty. Patrolman Mark Gomer Ornopia Sr. of the Danao City Police Station and Patrolman Curtney Harwin Baggay of Quezon City Police District lost their lives.

Calinisan emphasized that the current policy should not require active policemen to be permanently disabled or make the ultimate sacrifice for their children to be eligible for scholarship programs. He stated, 'Two officers have died in succession—this is a grim testament to the fact that the life of a policeman is lived with one foot already in the grave. Our police are doing their best to keep our streets and communities safe.'

Calinisan aims to improve the morale and welfare of the police force by enhancing scholarship programs, not only for the families of those who have been killed or injured in operations but also for those who are still actively serving. He highlighted that the scholarship program would contribute to boosting the morale and welfare of law enforcers.

As a first step towards implementing this initiative, Calinisan called on the private sector to collaborate with Napolcom in supporting scholarship initiatives that would benefit the dedicated police officers and their families. He stated, 'We welcome partnerships with private institutions that share our goal of empowering our men and women in uniform through education and meaningful support.'

Last month, Calinisan advocated for the resumption of scholarship programs for policemen who have died or been permanently incapacitated, expanding the program from kindergarten to college.