Recognizing their outstanding contributions to the criminology profession, an alumnus and faculty members of the University of Northern Philippines earned recognition at the 2026 Outstanding Criminologists in Region 1 Awarding Ceremony held on November 9, 2026 at Ariana Hotel in Bauang, La Union.
Organized by the Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines, Inc. Region 1 Council, the awarding ceremony formed part of the observance of the 3rd Criminology Profession Week, pursuant to Proclamation No. 397 series of 2023.
Among the distinguished awardees was Mr. Clyde Justine Rabara, a former student of the UNP College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), who received an honorable mention for ranking second among the top-performing examinees in Region 1 in the August 2026 Criminologists Licensure Examination, garnering an impressive rating of 90.10 percent. Rabara also graduated as CCJE Class Valedictorian in 2025.
Further highlighting the University’s representation, CCJE Dean Dr. Sina Bestre received the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her contributions to the criminology profession, while Assistant Dean Prof. Myline Aleson was honored for her service as an officer of the PCAP Region 1 Council.
Also recognized for their contributions as officers of the PCAP Ilocos Sur Chapter were Dr. Arlan Reburon, Dr. Loida Rilveria, Dr. George Phillippe Amano, and Mrs. Jacqueline Figuerres-Castillo, along with Dr. Wilson Tolio, Assistant Dean of the College of Open Distance Education (CODE).
In the academe category, CODE Dean Dr. Dolores Bersamina earned the Outstanding Criminologist of Region 1 Award for her professional accomplishments and contributions to the field.
The recognitions highlight the professional excellence and sustained contributions of UNP’s criminology educators and alumnus, further affirming the University’s role in advancing criminology education, professional development, and service in the region.
