Internalizing the Moral Recovery Practices of the Philippine National Police (PNP): Perspectives of Police Officers in the Quad Cities of Cebu

Abstract

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Moral Recovery Program (MRP) is designed to foster ethical conduct, integrity, and accountability among police officers. This qualitative study, conducted in the Quad Cities of Cebu—Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay—examines the perspectives of PNP personnel regarding the program’s implementation, its impact on their work-life, and their aspirations for improving its effectiveness. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with eighteen (18) police officers providing rich insights into their perspectives with the Moral Recovery Program and Practices of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Thematic analysis revealed two key themes under the positive perspective: Internal Cleansing by Way of Ethical Rebooting and Mindset Makeover: Finding the 'Good Cop' Within. Conversely, two themes emerged under the negative perspective: Program Glitches: When Good Intentions Go Rogue and Reputation Rehab: The Stigma That Sticks Like Glue. Further, the study identified the MRP’s impact on officers’ work-life through the themes: Heart’s Wake, Mind’s Take and Tempest Tamed, Spirit Framed. Lastly, participants expressed their aspirations for program improvement, with two additional themes: All In, All the Time: Making the Moral Recovery Program Universal and Ethics Over Excuses: Making It Work. This study provides an understanding of the PNP’s Moral Recovery Program and Practices, offering valuable insights for leadership and policymakers in assessing its effectiveness. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive application, stronger engagement, and strategic reforms to ensure that ethical development remains a cornerstone of police training and service.