Reinforcing the Frontlines: Experiences of Police Auxiliary during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This is a phenomenological study on the experiences of Task Force Kasaligan as auxiliary forces during the COVID-19 pandemic in Cebu City. Phenomenological interviewing was used in data gathering to describe the meaning of the phenomenon. This study was conducted in Cebu City, Philippines, where the participants were selected members of Task Force Kasaligan. These were ten participants who were chosen through purposive convenient sampling. The study utilized an interview Guide to elicit in-depth responses from the participants. The investigation aimed to explore several key areas: the personal experiences of individuals serving as police auxiliaries, the strategies they employ to address challenges faced while fulfilling their roles, and their goals for enhancing the service they provide to the community. Results revealed that three themes came up: two themes on positive and one on negative experiences of the participants in the performance of their duty as police auxiliary during the covid-19 pandemic which are: Knowledge and Competence Leads to Better Performance, Police Presence Makes COVID-19 Spread Lessened; and Bashing and Disrespecting Authorities Leads to COVID-19 Spread. Two themes in how the participants, as police auxiliaries, coped with the problems encountered in performing their duties: Expanding the Maximum Tolerance and Building Strong Collaboration. The aspirations of the participants to enhance the service quality provided to the community revealed two main themes: Firstly, the importance of "Holding on: Security of Tenure," highlighting the significance of job security. Secondly, "Moving on: The Need for Training and Development" emphasizes the necessity for continuous learning and skill enhancement. It was recommended that the Cebu City Police Office and the Task Force Kasaligan Personnel should conduct police partnership programs about the guidelines of COVID-19 health protocols in the different barangays in Cebu City. The purpose of this police partnership program is to strengthen the relationship of the Police Personnel and Task Force Kasaligan Personnel to the community's citizens and to ensure their cooperation.