On December 13, 2024, the University of Northern Philippines – College of Criminal Justice Education (UNP-CCJE), in collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education – Region 1 (CHED-RO1), the Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines – Region 1 (PCAP-R1), and the Council of Criminal Justice Educators – Region 1, hosted the 2024 Criminal Justice Education Conference at the UNP Gymnasium, themed, Regional Synergy in Criminal Justice Education: Advancing Professional Excellence for Sustainable Innovation.”

The conference attracted participants from various State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across Region 1.

Dr. Erwin Cadorna, President of UNP, extended a warm welcome to attendees. The guest of honor, PBGEN Lou F. Evangelista, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 1, stressed the conference’s importance as a platform for discussing crucial issues like internationalization and recruitment policies in criminology. She noted that adapting to evolving challenges is essential for practitioners in law enforcement and education.

The agenda featured several key topics presented by experts in criminal justice education. Hon. Warren M. Corpuz discussed the “Table of Specification for the Criminologist License Examination,” while PCOL Richard Ablon addressed “Recent Developments in PNP Recruitment.” Dr. Ambrosio Detran shared insights on “Bridging the Gap – Regional Student Congress,” and Dr. Myrelle Faith D. Mina introduced a “Self-Assessment Tool for BS Criminology.”

Each session included open forums to engage attendees and address pressing issues in criminal justice education. The conference aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused on quality education, peace, justice, and partnerships. It concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Danilo B. Bose, Chief Education Program Specialist at CHED-RO1, highlighting the event’s success in fostering collaboration among educational institutions and law enforcement agencies.

Article by Charmaine Angela Ancho, Photo by Noelle Jnyx Tacas.