The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), in collaboration with the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM), recently conducted an orientation on Special Laws under the BCPO’s Panag-aywan iti Kailyan Program as part of the Pre-Deployment Orientation for hospitality and tourism management students. Held at the UB Centennial Hall on May 19, 2025, the session highlighted the importance of legal awareness in helping students become more informed and prepared, while promoting professionalism that is rooted in integrity and responsibility, especially as they embark on their practicum.
In the first part of the event, Championing Community Challenges: A Forum with the Philippine National Police, PCPT Maricris S. Melchor discussed the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (RA 9262) and the Anti-Rape Law (RA 8353). Pat Jomel S. Baban continued the discussion on the Anti-Illegal Drugs Act (RA 9165), while PCpl Jeeford Calpi and PCpl Jeovanie Bania-ao covered the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act (RA 10586).
PCOL Ruel D. Tagel, City Director of BCPO, emphasized the crucial role of legal awareness in crime prevention and encouraged students to be champions of safety and responsibility in their communities.
The initiative was also attended by PMaj Francisco O. Ben, PMaj Olivia M. Galuzo, PSMS Norton Mariano, and Pat Baby Laica Suniga. Beyond preparing students for their practicum, the orientation aimed to equip them with the knowledge needed to contribute to a safer and more responsible Baguio City. This event achieved three Sustainable Development Goals, namely SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
Following the forum, the orientation transitioned to Readying the Champions in Skill Building and Professional Development, where students were briefed on their Duties and Responsibilities, the Trainees’ Code of Discipline, and essential Practicum Reminders.
