QPPO emphasizes collaborative strategy, digital preparedness in fight against crime

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Quezon police officials, led by acting provincial director Police Colonel Romulo A. Albacea, meet with community part...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Quezon police officials, led by acting provincial director Police Colonel Romulo A. Albacea, meet with community partners to discuss a unified strategy against crime. (QPPO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Officials from the Quezon Police Provincial Office (QPPO) emphasized that while they have intensified efforts to lower crime rates, their effectiveness depends on a strong collaborative strategy with partner agencies and the community. During the "Kapihan sa PIA-Quezon" forum on September 17, 2025 at Camp BGen Guillermo Nakar, they also stressed the need for officers to be better equipped with the digital knowledge and skills required to solve increasingly high-tech and cyber-related crimes.

To address the evolving landscape of criminal activities, QPPO officials highlighted a proactive approach that includes enhancing the force's digital capabilities. They emphasized that as criminals increasingly operate in online spaces, from financial scams and identity theft to online harassment and data breaches, law enforcement must keep pace.



In addition to training officers, the QPPO is also focused on raising public awareness about online threats to help community members protect themselves from becoming victims. A key focus is on training officers in digital forensics, cybercrime investigation techniques, and the use of advanced technology to effectively gather evidence and track down perpetrators in the digital realm. This initiative is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring the police force remains effective in a technology-driven world.

Police Colonel Romulo A. Albacea, the acting provincial director of QPPO, highlighted the force's proactive efforts and operational accomplishments for the second quarter of 2025. "The significant gains we've made in our campaign against illegal drugs and criminality this quarter are a direct result of our proactive efforts on the ground," Colonel Albacea stated. "Our commitment is not only to respond to crime but to prevent it through decisive action and community engagement."

With its oversight of one city police station, 40 municipal police stations, and a provincial public safety company, the QPPO is strategically positioned to secure the entire province. This widespread presence, according to officials, makes collaboration with local governments and information agencies like the PIA all the more crucial.

The forum's discussions, which also included Lucena City Administrator Anacleto “Jun” Alcala and Sariaya Municipal Police Station Chief P/Lt. Col. Jezreel L. Calderon, emphasized a unified front against criminality. Their dialogue focused on community partnerships, public safety measures, and proactive crime prevention.

Meanwhile Lucena City Administrator Anacleto “Jun” Alcala stressed the city's full commitment to public safety. "We are fully committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our residents," Alcala said. "Peace and order are a top priority for the local government, and we believe that by working hand-in-hand with our police force and other agencies, we can effectively address all security concerns and foster a community where everyone feels safe.”

For his part, Police Lieutenant Colonel Jezreel L. Calderon of the Sariaya Municipal Police Station shared insights into the challenges and successes of local law enforcement. He highlighted the importance of community-oriented policing, where officers build trust and rapport with residents to facilitate the flow of critical information. Calderon emphasized that a strong relationship between the police and the community is fundamental to solving local disputes and proactively addressing issues before they escalate into more serious crimes.

Colonel Albacea further stressed the police's commitment to public safety. He noted that this pledge is carried out through proactive measures such as increased mobile and foot patrols and the strategic deployment of rapid response teams. “The PNP is ready and always on guard to protect everyone for peaceful gatherings and free expression,” he added. “We assure you that we will remain alert and vigilant to prevent any illegal activities or threats to public safety.”

This cooperative strategy was also reinforced during the recent 3rd Quarter PPOC Meeting, which focused on addressing security concerns and promoting lasting peace. The overarching message of the forum aligned with the 31st National Crime Prevention Week's theme: “Pinalakas na Pamahalaang Lokal para sa Ligtas na Pamayanan: Pagpapatibay ng mga Programa sa Pag-iwas sa Krimen sa Ilalim ng Community Service-Oriented Policing (CSOP) System.” This highlights that a safe community is a shared responsibility, not just a police one.