International Journal of Law and Politics Studies
The International Journal of Law and Politics Studies (ISSN: 2709-0914) is a monthly, peer-reviewed scholarly journal that aims to provide a platform for academics, researchers, and practitioners to share original research, critical analyses, and innovative perspectives in the fields of law and political science. The journal covers a wide scope, including but not limited to constitutional law, international law, human rights, comparative politics, public policy, governance, and contemporary political issues from global and regional contexts. Its mission is to foster academic dialogue, encourage interdisciplinary approaches, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in both legal and political studies. The International Journal of Law and Politics Studies is published online only, ensuring broad accessibility and timely dissemination of high-quality research to a worldwide readership.
Al-Kindi Center for Research and Development
The Digital Public Square: Analyzing the Dimensions of Students’ Engagement in Online Political Debates
The focus of this research is on the various ways college students in Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines engage with politics online through the “digital public square.” The study used descriptive-correlational research design and specifically examines four ways of engaging politically: latent engagement, follower engagement, expressive engagement, and counter-engagement. The results of the analysis find that latent engagement was the most common way that students participated in politics online since their average score was 2.76; this is compared to 1.64 for counter-engagement and 1.90 for follower engagement. There is a statistically significant positive relationship (r=.235) between latent engagement and expressive engagement, indicating that there is a link between the two types of engagement, and that passive consumption of information is a precursor to expressing oneself publicly. Additionally, there is an even stronger correlation (r=.636) between expressive and counter-engagement, indicating that when people are more vocal about their opinions, they tend to be more aggressive in their online behavior. The regression analysis indicated that active forms of engagement are the primary predictors of digital political followership, based on the R² value of =0.719. Therefore, while students are interested in staying informed about political issues, they often prefer to engage privately due to the negative environment created by highly polarized individuals in the digital public square.
Digital public square, latent engagement, expressive engagement, counter-engagement, spiral of silence
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Correcting Mistakes, Redirecting the Future: The Lived Experiences of Public Officers Handling Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL)
This study explored the experiences of public officers handling Children in Conflict with the Law focusing on both the challenges they faced and their aspirations. Using a phenomenological research design, the study aimed to understand the emotional, procedural, and systemic obstacles encountered by professionals such as police officers and social workers in managing CICL cases. Ten key informants, purposively selected for their direct involvement in CICL cases, participated in in-depth interviews. The data were transcribed and analyzed to identify key themes, revealing eight themes that represented the experiences of the participants. Member checking was used to ensure validity, allowing participants to verify the accuracy of the transcriptions. The study identified several positive challenges, happy to serve and contentment through collaboration, participants have also negative challenges such as emotional struggles in work and barriers to effective collaboration, inter-agency cooperation and patience and commitment to serve for addressing the challenges encountered, and for their aspirations the provision for logistic support and security of tenure. This study suggests the need for reforms, including enhanced training for officers, improved collaboration between agencies, and the expansion of restorative justice programs and strengthening community support for CICL is also critical for ensuring successful rehabilitation and reintegration.
Children in Conflict with the Law, Public Officers, Professionals
Non-fault Liability Offences: A Comparative Analysis in the Sudanese and Libyan Laws
This study examines the concept of non-fault liability offences through a comparative analysis of the Sudanese and Libyan legal systems. Employing a doctrinal qualitative legal research methodology, it relies on primary legal sources – including legislative texts and judicial precedents – as well as secondary sources such as scholarly writings and legal commentaries. The research seeks to interpret and critically assess how non-fault liability is addressed legislatively and jurisprudentially within each jurisdiction. The selection of Sudan and Libya is deliberate, as each represents a distinct legal tradition: the Sudanese law is primarily influenced by the common law system, which emphasizes judicial precedents, while the Libyan law follows the continental (civil law) system, grounded in codified statutes. This comparative framework provides insight into how these divergent legal heritages influence the interpretation and application of non-fault liability offences. Furthermore, the study explores the extent of legislative and jurisprudential acceptance of non-fault liability, as well as the specific areas of application of such offences within both legal systems. The research concludes with recommendations aimed at clarifying legislative definitions, ensuring constitutional consistency, and promoting balanced application of non-fault liability in contemporary criminal law.
Non-fault liability, comparative analysis, Sudanese law, Libyan law, legal systems (common law vs. civil law).
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Lived Experiences on the PNP Frontline Services and Customer Services
This study explored the implementation the Police Administrative and Operational response rules and regulation; Lived Experiences on the PNP Frontline Services of the and Customer Services. The researcher gets to know the lived experiences of the law enforcer specially those who are assigned as frontline police officer and to know what innovative practices can be proposed base on the findings of this study. The researchers use the qualitative researched specifically the Husserlian descriptive phenomenology method (Christensen et al, 2017) Descriptive phenomenology focuses on the essence of human experiences, or what humans experienced and how they experienced that phenomenon while they were in the state of intentional consciousness. This leads to phenomenological purity. In this study, phenomenological purity was applied with pure phenomenological attitude towards the phenomenon, and any interpretation by the researcher was minimized, again, by the researcher (Lester, 2004), with the least number of perceptions, judgments, biases, or preconceived ideas about the phenomenon, using the epoch, or bracketing, method. It emphasizes the 'pure' description of people's experiences, to the 'interpretation' of such experiences. The experiences of the police front liners and the client’s satisfaction will be treated with objectivity and credibility in the interpretation without biases from the researcher’s perspective. From the 78 significant statements of the participants’ narratives, four themes and six subthemes emerge: Theme 1: I am a Frontline Police Officer (Sub-theme 1: Training and Education); Theme 2: I am a public Servant (Sub-theme 1: Life at risk, Sub-theme 2: Service for Peace, Sub-theme 3: Commitment and Passion); Theme 3: Different Strokes, Different Feelings (Sub-theme 1; Services appreciated and Sub-theme 2: Inhumanities Despised). There are challenges encountered by the frontline police officer while performing their duty such as cases filed against the responding police officer, political influences and obtain injury or killed during the conduct of operation. These are the challenges discovered during the implementation of laws, ordinances, rules and regulations that need to be addressed in attaining the goal of the Philippine National Police towards the peace and order. An Intervention program could be implemented in the different police station in Central Visayas.
Live experience, Frontline Police Officer, Life at risks, Commitment and passion, Services appreciated, and Inhumanities despised.
Copyright (c) 2026 International Journal of Law and Politics Studies
Enhancing the Role and Impact of Saudi Cultural Attachés Abroad: Evidence-Based Strategies from Leading Global Practices
Saudi cultural attachés play a pivotal role in advancing the Kingdom’s educational diplomacy, cultural relations, and international reputation. As Saudi Arabia expands its global academic engagement in line with Vision 2030, there is an increasing need to modernize the institutional roles, competencies, and operational frameworks governing cultural attaché offices abroad. This study develops an evidence-based policy framework to enhance the effectiveness and strategic impact of Saudi cultural attachés by drawing on leading global practices without adopting a purely comparative approach. Instead, it synthesizes proven models and innovations from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and China to generate context-specific, actionable strategies tailored to Saudi national priorities. Grounded in theories of cultural diplomacy and soft power, the paper examines how educational exchanges, cultural programming, alumni engagement, language promotion, and institutional partnerships are deployed internationally to foster long-term influence and mutual understanding. The analysis identifies critical operational gaps within current attaché practices, including limited impact measurement, under-utilization of digital diplomacy tools, and insufficient professional specialization. At the same time, it highlights significant opportunities for reform through structured performance indicators, enhanced capacity building, data-driven student services, and stronger collaboration with host-country academic and cultural institutions. The study proposes a coherent strategic framework encompassing governance reform, professional development, digital engagement, and programmatic innovation. Key recommendations include the establishment of a national cultural diplomacy policy, the introduction of measurable performance dashboards, the expansion of leadership and exchange programs, and the launch of Saudi-centric initiatives such as a Global Cultural Exchange Network and a Digital Attaché Hub. Collectively, these reforms aim to reposition Saudi cultural attachés as proactive agents of soft power, capable of delivering measurable educational, cultural, and diplomatic outcomes that strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global standing.
Saudi Arabia, Saudi, cultural attaché, education diplomacy, soft power, Vision 2030, international partnerships, cultural engagement, comparative policy analysis
Beyond Lobbyists: Artificial Intelligence and the Reconfiguration of Informational Power in Parliament
The growing institutional use of artificial intelligence (AI) in parliamentary work raises new questions about lobbying and political influence. Traditional informational models of lobbying explain influence through informational asymmetries between interest groups and legislators, whereby organized actors supply specialized knowledge that public officials cannot easily produce on their own. This article examines how the institutional application of AI within parliaments may reconfigure these asymmetries. Using a conceptual-analytical research design, the study maps five functional areas of AI use in parliamentary work – analytical support, support to the legislative decision-making process, administrative support, support for procedural transparency, and support for communication with the public – drawing primarily on the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s Guidelines for AI in parliaments as a reference institutional framework. These functional capacities are analytically related to the core assumptions of informational lobbying theory. The analysis suggests that institutional AI can strengthen internal parliamentary capacities for information production and processing, thereby reducing structural dependence on external informational intermediaries. At the same time, this reduction of traditional informational asymmetry is accompanied by the emergence of new asymmetries related to technological infrastructure, algorithmic design, and institutional capacity for AI governance. Rather than eliminating political influence, institutional AI reshapes the conditions under which informational mediation and lobbying operate in contemporary legislative processes. The article contributes to the literature by shifting the analytical focus from lobbying actors and tools to the institutional conditions of informational sovereignty in contemporary parliaments.
Bringing Hope, Restoring Lives: Experiences of Former Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL)
The high rate of recidivism among juvenile offenders worldwide highlights the need for effective rehabilitation programs. This study explores the experiences of former child in conflict with the law (CICL) in the Philippines who underwent rehabilitation programs. Through comprehensive purposive sampling, six Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) from Leyte, three from Southern Leyte, and one from Biliran were interviewed. Using Colaizzi's (1978) descriptive phenomenological data analysis, it found that structured routines and assigned tasks positively impacted personal growth and development. Discipline, responsibility, and accountability were important for rehabilitation. While social isolation and limitations on freedom were challenges, increased chores as restitution promoted accountability and contributed to the rehabilitation environment. Vocational training programs equipped CICL with marketable skills, and personal growth fostered stronger family relationships. This study improves understanding of factors influencing rehabilitation program success and their positive impact on former CICL.
children in conflict with the law, youth rehabilation program, former child offender, juvenile delinquency, youth rehabilation center
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Paradigms and practices in the enforcement of drug law: work narratives of heads of the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Unit (PNP-DEU), Cebu City, Philippines
The Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) plays a crucial role in the local implementation of drug laws. As a specialized unit within local law enforcement agencies, the DEU is equipped with the necessary expertise and resources to investigate drug-related crimes and apprehend drug suspects. The DEU's intimate knowledge of local communities and its ability to build relationships with informants are essential for identifying drug hotspots and disrupting drug trafficking activities. In effectively carrying out its mandate, the DEU helps to reduce the prevalence of drug use and trafficking within its jurisdiction, contributing to the overall drug control efforts in the Philippines. The findings of this study are articulated through eight emergent themes, which describe both the positive and negative experiences of the informants. Positive experiences were represented by themes such as "From Unlawful to Upright" and “From Shadow to Light". Negative experiences were captured by themes like "A Badge of Honor is A Badge of Terror" and "Unseen Forces a Shadow of Horror". The challenges encountered by the informants in the performance of their duties were reflected in themes such as "Facing Challenges in the Legal Process" and "Inter-Agency Cooperation". Finally, aspirations of the informants to improve the enforcement of drug laws were expressed in themes like "Protection for the Guardian" and "Sustained Implementation for a Better Future".The study suggests the Philippine National Police should prioritize investing in state-of-the-art technology for surveillance and intelligence gathering, incorporating a community-centric approach to drug prevention and rehabilitation, and aligning its drug enforcement strategies with the national drug prevention policy.
Criminal Justice, Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Unit (PNP-DEU), Phenomenological Study, Philippines
The Pitfalls of FIDIC Contracts and How Robust Contract Management Mitigates Them: A Case Study of GCC Mega Projects
This paper examines the common contractual traps encountered within FIDIC forms in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) mega-projects and explores how effective contract management can help alleviate them. Although FIDIC contracts aim to distribute risk transparently and facilitate timely administration, implementation gaps persist, particularly regarding notices, variation management, the engineer's authority, and dispute resolution methods. Based on a qualitative multiple-case study of key projects in GCC infrastructure (above USD 1 billion in value), the study synthesises evidence from contract records, interviews, and additional material to map the most common failures in contract operations. The results point to systemic problems, including a lack of time or quality notices, ambiguous scope management, delays in determination, and the non-use of Dispute Avoidance/Adjudication Boards (DAABs). Nonetheless, projects that adopted formal notices and claims tracking, enabled Engineers to make interim determinations, had digital record-keeping systems, and had standing DAABs showed much better results, with quicker settlements and lower rates of arbitration. The research suggests a FIDIC-consistent Contract Management Framework that integrates transactional, agency, and governance views, along with a playbook applicable across GCC legal and cultural scenarios. The findings contribute to the construction law and governance literature by conceptualising the principles of FIDIC into practical management practices. They emphasise the importance of procedural discipline, transparency, and prior dispute avoidance in delivering mega-projects through contractual balance and delivery certainty.
Dispute Avoidance and Adjudication Boards (DAAB)
The Tao of Teaching and the Criminology Instructor
This is a phenomenological study on the TAO of teaching and the Criminology Instructors. Phenomenological interviewing was used in data gathering to describe the meaning of the phenomenon. This study was conducted in Central Visayas, Philippines where the informants were those Faculty members who have experience in teaching laboratory and non-laboratory courses. These were ten informants who were selected through the convenience sampling. The study utilized an interview Guide to elicit in-depth responses from the informants. In-depth interviews were conducted to arrive at the three-phase data collection needed in the study. The study sought answers to the following: experiences of informants in teaching non-laboratory courses, experiences of the informants in teaching laboratory courses, and views of the informants in their teaching profession. Result revealed that two themes came up on the experiences of informants in teaching non-laboratory courses which are: Pros and Cons: Perks and Privileges in Teaching and it Takes Two to Tango. On the experiences of the informants in teaching laboratory courses there were two themes: Considerations: Perks and privileges in teaching and Student-Teacher responsibility. On the views of the informants in their teaching profession, two (2) themes emerged: Value of Teaching Profession and Noble Profession. It was recommended that teachers handling non-laboratory and laboratory courses in criminology should meet the minimum standards set by the Commission on Higher Education to be more competent in their teaching professions and they must attend seminars and trainings to boost their confidence and the forensic science laboratories, facilities, apparatus & equipment should be upgraded aligned with the CHED Memorandum order to meet the standard and best education to the criminology students as future law enforcer.
Criminology Instructors, Art of teaching, Phenomenological study, Philippines
Philippine National Police Officers’ Administrative and Operational Performance in Central Visayas
This paper investigated the performance of the Philippine National Police in Central Visayas in administrative and operational functions. This study covered the period 2012. The maintenance of peace and order is the primary responsibility of the police. It is the agency that is tasked to safeguard lives and properties and maintain public order, as well as prevent and control crime. The police are trained to suppress criminality, enhance community relationships and demonstrate proficiency in keeping certain places to live and to help many people live a more comfortable life. This research utilized the descriptive-survey method aided by the use of questionnaires and an interview guide. The respondents who rated the administrative and operational performance of Central Visayas were the police commissioned officers from the rank of Police Inspector to Police Senior Superintendent assigned in the different cities and provinces of Central Visayas. Results showed that majority of the police officers were males and the majority of them belonged to the age bracket of 51 to 55 years old. Central Visayas was rated by respondents as very satisfactory both in administrative and operational functions. Moreover, it was the age and the number of years in service that had a moderate to moderately large relationship with the administrative and operational performance.
Performance of the Philippine National Police, Maintenance of peace and order, prevent and control crime.
Copyright (c) 2025 International Journal of Law and Politics Studies
Battle Against the Drug Menace: Narratives of Law Enforcers in Implementing the Anti-Drug Program
The study explored into the work life of station commanders in the tri-cities, of Cebu, Philippines. The study sought to answer the work life of police station commanders. Transcendental phenomenological approach was used in the study. The study involved fifteen (15) research informants who are who are currently assigned as Station Commanders in the tri-cities of Cebu. It was conducted in the tri-cities of Cebu, Philippines namely: Cebu City, Mandaue City and Lapu-lapu City. The researcher utilized research guide questions with an open-ended question for individual in-depth interviews. Thematic content analysis was used in the treatment of collected data. The researcher generated four (4) themes for the experiences of the informants in the implementation of the anti-drug program. For the positive experiences there were two (2) themes namely: Triumph in Shared Victory and Justice in Motion: Fulfilment in Every Rescue. For the negative experiences there were two (2) themes namely: Fighting a Battle That Resets Itself and Stand Amidst the Storm. As to addressing the challenges encountered by the informanats in the implementation of the anti-drug program, there were three (3) themes namely: Leading with Resolve in the Midst of Limitations; Presence with Purpose and Unity in Action. For the impact of the implementation of the anti-drug program to the peace and order of the community, there were two (2) themes namely: Peace Built on Persistence and Precision and Trust at the Center of Peace. The implications emphasize that effective and humane anti-drug implementation requires shared responsibility across sectors. Strengthening leadership, trust, collaboration, and community engagement forms the path toward safer and more resilient society.
Anti-Drug Program, Police Station Commanders, Peace and Order, Philippines
Guardians of Public Safety, Governors of Peace and Order: Insights of Members of Peace and Order Council of Quad Cities of Cebu, Philippines
The City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) serves as a vital mechanism in promoting peace and maintaining public safety at the local government level. This study employed a transcendental phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of CPOC members in the Quad Cities of Cebu, Philippines, in the performance of their roles and responsibilities. Data were gathered from twelve (12) key informants, representing various government and community sectors, through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Analysis revealed eight (8) emergent themes. For positive experiences: Peace is Our Song, But Not Ours Alone and Every Step A Lesson, Every Rise A Legacy. For negative experiences: Paper Shields, Plastic Swords and Broken Seals, Silent Oaths. Coping mechanisms generated two (2) themes: The Power of Few, The Strength of Many and Motion. As to aspirations for improving peace and order programs, two (2) themes were identified: Lead with Fire, Train with Soul and Innovation is the New Armor. The findings highlight the crucial role of inter-agency collaboration, the challenges posed by political dynamics and resource constraints, and the resilience of CPOC members in fulfilling their mandate. The study recommends strengthening institutional support, ensuring adequate funding, enhancing training and capacity-building, and depoliticizing peace and order initiatives to sustain effective governance in public safety and community peacebuilding.
Criminal Justice, City Peace and Order Council, Peace and Order, Local Governance, Quad Cities Cebu Philippines, Phenomenological Study
Helping Uplift the Dignity and Worth of the Vulnerable Persons: Work-life of Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Persons in Cebu City, Philippines
This phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of Gender and Development (GAD) focal persons in implementing gender sensitivity programs in Cebu City, Philippines. Utilizing phenomenological interviewing, the study examines the meaning and essence of their experiences. Ten barangay-based GAD focal persons were selected through purposive convenient sampling. An interview guide facilitated in-depth data collection across three phases. The study sought to understand the informants' experiences, the challenges they encountered in the implementation of gender sensitivity programs, and their aspirations for service improvement. Findings revealed two themes for positive experiences: A Journey of Joy and Equality and Cultivating a Seed of Change. Negative experiences were categorized into Emotionally Drained and Constrained and In Pure Dedication Lies Exasperation. In addressing challenges, two themes emerged: Dedication Beyond the Call of Duty and Calibrating Work and Advocacy. The informants' aspirations for improving their services were reflected in Proper Compensation Leads to a Better Service Rendition and A Bridge to a Future Needs a Better Infrastructure. The study recommends increased government and private sector support through appropriating financial and logistical resources to enhance service delivery in barangays. Mental health support is crucial for GAD focal persons to maintain their well-being and effectiveness. Community engagement in reporting gender-based violence should be encouraged. Expanding the presence of social workers can further train GAD focal persons. Additionally, the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Desk (PNP WCPD) should collaborate with local government units (LGUs) and GAD focal persons to identify and address areas prone to domestic violence.
Criminal Justice, Gender and Development Focal Person, Gender-Based Violence, Phenomenological
Dousing the Balls of Fire: Challenges Facing Station Chiefs
This is a phenomenological study on challenges faced by fire station chiefs. Phenomenological interviewing was used in data gathering and describes the meaning of the phenomenon. This study was conducted in Cebu, Central Visayas, Philippines. The informants were station chiefs who have experience in managing their fire stations. Twelve (12) informants had been selected through purposive convenience sampling. The study utilized an interview guide to elicit in-depth responses from the informants. In-depth interviews were conducted to arrive at the three-phase data collection needed in the study. The study sought to determine the following: experiences of the informants in managing their departments, informants’ manner in addressing the issues encountered in managing their departments, and informants’ aspirations for themselves and for their departments. Result revealed that two themes came up on the positive experiences of the informants in managing their departments which are: Cooperation and Teamwork of Personnel and Accomplishment of Goals and Target: Obedience and Respect. On negative experiences of the informants in managing their departments which are: Miscommunication and Fail to Achieve Target and Lack of Personnel and Equipment. On informants addressed the issues encountered in managing their departments, there were two themes which are: Imposed Policies and Guidelines in the Station and Additional Personnel in the Station. On informants’ aspirations for themselves and for their departments, two (2) themes merged: Job Dedication and Render Service to the Public. In order to solve the perennial problems that most fire stations in Central Visayas have experienced, it is hereby recommended that the fire station chiefs request from the higher office the following, to wit: downloading of additional personnel for their respective fire stations; procurement of additional tools and equipment for rescue and emergency medical services and increase of allocation for the maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus.
Station Chiefs, Dousing the Balls of Fire, Phenomenological Study, Philippine
The Efficiency of Third-Party Funding in the Resolution of International Disputes through Arbitration in the Southeast Asia Region
Third-party funding (TPF) has emerged as a transformative mechanism in international arbitration, yet its impact on arbitral efficiency in Southeast Asia remains underexplored. This empirical study surveys 100 legal practitioners across the region to assess how TPF influences key efficiency metrics including time to resolution, cost-effectiveness, predictability, settlement rates, and party satisfaction. Results indicate strong practitioner consensus that TPF enhances efficiency across all measured dimensions (mean scores: 3.55-3.67 on a 4-point scale), with particularly significant impacts on cost-effectiveness and settlement likelihood. However, respondents identify critical challenges including conflicts of interest, funder control concerns, and regulatory gaps. The study contributes original empirical evidence from an under-researched jurisdiction and provides region-specific policy recommendations for developing robust TPF frameworks. Findings suggest that while TPF demonstrably improves access to justice and procedural efficiency in Southeast Asian arbitration, realizing its full potential requires comprehensive regulatory reform emphasizing transparency, disclosure mandates, and ethical standards.
Third-party funding, international arbitration, arbitral efficiency, Southeast Asia, access to justice, litigation finance, dispute resolution, legal practitioners.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Digital Twins and Legal Liability: Navigating Accountability in Simulated Realities
In this research protject, the focus is on how issues of responsibility are resolved when using digital twin technology within the United States. With digital twins playing a key role in healthcare, manufacturing and infrastructure, new problems concerning data integrity, cybersecurity, privacy and how reliable systems can operate tend to emerge. The paper describes the current legal situation, identifies important U.S. laws and relevant authorities and discusses the obstacles faced in the process of deciding who was at fault. The findings point out actual problems and solutions are suggested in terms of policies and technologies to close such gaps. Suggesting that comprehensive governance and a team approach are important, the study pushes for active laws, clear standards and creative improvements to make the use of digital twins safe and effective in significant industries.
Digital twins, legal liability, data governance, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, U.S. regulation, simulated environments
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Exploring the Possibility of Divorce in the Philippines: A Legal Perspective
This study investigates the multidimensional socio-legal factors influencing the potential legalization of divorce in the Philippines, one of only two jurisdictions worldwide where absolute divorce remains prohibited. Unlike prior scholarship focused primarily on doctrinal analysis, this research empirically examines cultural–religious norms, legal–institutional constraints, gender–social considerations, and international influences shaping legal professionals’ perspectives on divorce reform. Survey responses from 60 family law attorneys and judges were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient. Findings show that cultural and religious beliefs (M = 3.62, SD = 0.84), legal framework constraints (M = 3.48, SD = 0.94), gender equality concerns (M = 3.57, SD = 0.94), and international factors (M = 3.72, SD = 0.66) significantly affect attitudes toward divorce legalization. Respondents strongly agreed that legalizing divorce would increase social acceptance (M = 3.90, SD = 0.81), enhance gender equality (M = 3.62, SD = 0.69), and substantially transform the Philippine legal system (M = 3.45, SD = 1.04). The study contributes evidence-based insights for policymakers navigating the interplay of religious tradition, cultural values, gender dynamics, and contemporary legal needs.
Divorce legalization, Family law, Philippines, Legal framework, Cultural barriers, Gender equality
Moving on to a Pathway of Hope: Stories of Female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL)
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in the Philippines is responsible for developing plans, programs, and policies to effectively implement rehabilitation programs for all inmates nationwide. It also collaborates with other government and private organizations to support these programs. The primary goal is to improve the well-being of inmates and prepare them for successful reintegration into society after their release while ensuring humane treatment for all inmates, regardless of their backgrounds and gender. This research study aimed to understand the experiences of female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) within the rehabilitation program through a qualitative research method. The informants of this study were ten (10) resides at the Cebu City Jail Female Dormitory (CCJFD)situated at Barangay Kalunasan Cebu City, Philippines. Four (4) informants were subjected to an in-depth interview and six (6) informants for the Focus Group Discussions (FGD). The findings of this study are articulated in emergent themes. Six (6) emergent themes described the positive and negative experiences of the informants on the rehabilitation program. For the positive experiences, three (3) emergent themes were developed, namely: Jailhouse Jukebox, Cellmate for Change, and From Cell to Success: Skills, Swag, and Savings. For the negative experiences, three (3) emergent themes were also developed, to wit: Behind Bars, Beyond Reach, From Fear to Freedom, and Behind Closed Doors: LGBTQ+ Isolation. Meanwhile, two (2) emergent themes were formulated to explain the informants’ coping with the challenges encountered during their rehabilitation program, namely: Faith, Friend and Books: A Prison Survival Kit and Finding a Safe Haven: The Power of Community. Finally, two (2) emergent themes were created to express the aspirations of the informants to improve their lives, to wit: Mastering Time & Chasing Dreams and Unlocking Potential: Diplomas, Discipline, and Divine Connection. This research underscores the importance of prioritizing mental and physical well-being for female Persons Deprive of Liberty (PDL). Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) should prioritize rest, advocate for flexible schedules, and seek support from the jail staff or peers. The Cebu City Jail Female Dormitory (CCJFD) must facilitate this by implementing rest periods, offering flexible schedules, and providing mental health services while ensuring an inclusive environment. Rehabilitation program implementers should tailor programs to individual needs, integrate mental health support, and foster social interaction. Continuous program evaluation and sufficient resource allocation are crucial for successful rehabilitation and reintegration.
Female Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Rehabilitation Programs, Phenomenology, Cebu City Jail Female Dormitory, Cebu City, Philippines
Internalizing the Moral Recovery Practices of the Philippine National Police (PNP): Perspectives of Police Officers in the Quad Cities of Cebu
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.
Philippine National Police, Moral Recovery Program, Police Ethics, Phenomenological Study
Managing Drug-Free Communities: Stories of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) Chairpersons
This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Badac) Chairperson managing drug free communities. Specifically, sought to the following specific problems: the experiences of the informants in managing drug prevention program, addressing the problems encountered by the informants, and their aspirations to improve the management of drug prevention programs in their barangays. A phenomenological and qualitative approach was employed, utilizing interviews as the primary data collection method. Ten BADAC Chairpersons, randomly selected but meeting specific qualifications and possessing extensive experience in the subject matter, were individually interviewed. The research was conducted in the top ten barangays in Talisay City, Cebu, known for high drug case numbers. A validated interview guide, supplemented by voice recordings for transcription, was used. Edmund Husserl's transcendental phenomenological analysis was applied to analyze the interview responses. The findings are articulated in emergent themes. Six emergent themes described the positive and negative experiences of the informants on the rehabilitation program. For the positive experiences, two emergent themes were developed, namely: Empowered Communities: Resilient Defense, and Governance and Partnership: A Winning Art. For the negative experiences, two emergent themes were also developed, to wit: My Life and my Family’s Life are at Stake and Almost a Futile Fight Against a Hydra. Meanwhile, two emergent themes were formulated to explain the informants’ coping with the challenges encountered during managing drug prevention program, namely: Creating a Drug-free community; a noble goal and A Strong Stand of Collaboration and Cooperation. Finally, two emergent themes were created to express the aspirations of the informants to improve the program, to wit: Unstoppable Duo: Resilience and Care and Trailblazing Leaders: A Positive Change. To enhance program effectiveness, the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) Chairperson, the driving force behind grassroots drug prevention efforts, needs support. Therefore, I recommend implementing a structured program that prioritizes the mental and emotional well-being of BADAC members through access to counseling or mental health professionals and scheduled team retreats. Lastly, PDEA should train barangay officials on drug identification, investigation, legal procedures, and community-based prevention strategies to strengthen collaboration and effective anti-drug initiatives.
Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC)
Work–Life Balance of Police Managers in Police Offices of Cebu City, Philippines
This study explores the Work Life Experience of Police Managers in selected PNP stations, Cebu City. This study aimed to answer the following questions: What are the experiences of the informants in managing police offices? How do the informants address the challenges encountered in managing police offices? What are the aspirations of the informants to improve the management of police offices? A qualitative method was used in gathering the data from fifteen (15) respondents. There were eleven police stations, plus four special units, all of which were in Cebu City, and were assigned as informants for this study. The chiefs of offices had an age range of 36 to 47 years, including both males and females. Females, with Baccalaureate Degrees, while others had Postgraduate studies, ranging from a master’s degree in public administration to the PNP mandatory training of Public Safety Officers' Advanced Course. They had varied perceptions on the aspects of managing a police station. From the gathered data, through the recorded responses, twelve emergent themes were created: for the positive and negative experiences of the informants in managing police offices in Cebu City, the themes created were Leader-Follower Relationship, Goal Pursuit, Alignment with Strategic Goals, Role Transformation, Resource Constraints, and Duty Beyond Control; for the challenges encountered in managing a police office in Cebu City, there were three (3) themes created, namely:, Community Relations and Trust Building, Collaboration and Partnerships, and Guided Through Acceptance; and for the aspirations of the informants to improve the management of the police office, there were three (3) themes that were created, which were: Values-Driven Leadership, Community-Oriented Policing and Partnerships, Modernization and Technological Advancement, and Personnel Development and Well-being. The recommendations are a continuous improvement in the aspect of managing police stations through various trainings and seminars, on effective management and leadership, and promotion of team building activities to develop camaraderie among police personnel and to cultivate good leaders within the law enforcement, plus continuous collaboration with the local government units for the police managers to deliver effective and efficient service to the community.
Criminology, police leadership, police station commanders, Cebu City, qualitative study, Philippines
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Foreign Policy and International Security
Drawing on the annual analyses and conclusions of the Aspen Strategy Group (which includes former officials, scientists, businesspeople and journalists), then, from the 2023 AI Security Summit at Bletchley Park, the European Union Artificial Intelligence Law (Regulation (EU) 2024/1689)) as well as the 2025 AI Action Summit held in Paris, this analytical research structures a concise critical review of the impact of artificial technology (AI) on global politics and international security. Public discourse on the effects of AI has mainly focused on the fear of it surpassing human intelligence and getting out of control, as well as on the concern that new intelligent machines will replace humans in every aspect of life, from driving cars to diagnosing diseases, etc. However, AI will also have a significant impact on future global politics. It will allow governments to embrace the digital world, providing an alternative to open political systems. In just a few weeks since its release, ChatGPT3 has already gained 100 million monthly users, while chatbots that have become the main topic of conversation are just the tip of the iceberg. Artificial intelligence that creates text, speech, art and videos is advancing rapidly, with far-reaching consequences for governments, commerce and civic life. It is no wonder that there is a serious influx of capital in this sector, that is, both governments and companies are investing in startups to develop and apply the latest machine learning tools. These new applications will combine historical data with machine learning, natural language processing and deep learning to determine the probability of future events. This progress is already hinting at new reshaping of government policies, from which policies are already generating new foreign policies with new geopolitical structuring in the international political and security plan.
Foreign Policy; International Security; Artificial Technology; Artificial Intelligence;
Implementation of The Sustainable Palm Oil Plantation Policy In Bungo Regency Jambi Province
The palm oil plantation sector is a strategic contributor to the economy of Bungo Regency, Jambi Province. However, amid increasing global and national demands for environmental sustainability, the implementation of sustainable palm oil policies continues to face various challenges. This study aims to analyze the implementation of sustainable palm oil policy in Bungo Regency, identify supporting and inhibiting factors, and formulate a more adaptive and collaborative implementation model. The research employs a qualitative approach with data collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis. The data were analyzed descriptively through stages of data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The research findings indicate that: 1) the implementation of the policy has not been optimal across several dimensions: a. Standards and objectives, the policy is not fully understood by local implementers due to the absence of derivative technical regulations; b. Policy resources, face constraints in terms of limited human resources and budget allocation; c. Implementing organizations remain unintegrated and operate in sectoral silos; d. Inter-organizational communication is weak, predominantly top-down and instructional; e. Implementers' attitudes are marked by conflicts of interest; f. Socio-economic and political conditions tend to prioritize short-term economic interests over sustainability principles; 2) Supporting factors include the presence of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), increasing environmental awareness, and normative support from the central and provincial governments. Inhibiting factors include the absence of local regulations, limited budget and technical capacity, weak coordination, lack of political commitment at the local level, and dominance of local elite interests; 3) The study proposes a policy implementation model adapted from Meter and Horn (1975), incorporating additional dimensions of collaboration and oversight, as well as an enhanced ecological aspect. This model is expected to strengthen cross-actor synergy, promote long-term sustainability, and ensure accountability in the governance of sustainable palm oil policies at the regional level.
Policy Implementation, Sustainable Palm Oil, Bungo Regency
Protecting Lives and Properties against Calamities: The Experiences of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Personnel
Disaster risk management refers to the application of plans and procedures for reducing disaster risk to prevent new disaster risks, minimize current disaster risk, and manage residual risk. This process helps to reduce disaster losses and increase resilience (Disaster Risk Management | UNDRR, 2007). This study explored the experiences of disaster risk reduction and management personnel through a qualitative research method. The participants of this study were the ten (10) participants chosen from the five (5) DRRM sectors in the municipalities of the Province of Guimaras. All participants were subjected to individual in-depth interviews. The findings of this study are described in emergent themes. Four (4) emergent themes described the positive and negative experiences of the participants in the implementation of disaster risk reduction and management programs. For the positive experiences, two (2) emergent themes were developed, namely: Empowering Community Resilience and Satisfaction of Effective Crisis Response. For the negative experiences, two (2) emergent themes were also developed, namely: Hurdles in Promoting Public Compliance and Inadequate Resources and Manpower Constraints. Meanwhile, two (2) emergent themes were formulated to explain how the participants address the challenges encountered in the implementation of disaster risk reduction and management programs, namely: Collaborative Partnerships for Resource Management and Capacity Building through Continuous Training. Finally, two (2) emergent themes were created to express the Aspirations of the Participants to Improve the Quality of Service, namely: Institutional Support and Resource Sustainability and Fostering Proactive Community Engagement. Based on the emergent themes identified, it is advised that the DRRM personnel be provided with consistent resource management and community engagement training to enhance their ability to address constraints more effectively and promote a proactive stance on disaster risk reduction.
DRRMC, Disaster Risk Reduction Management, Community-based Disaster Management, Phenomenology, Guimaras, Philippines
Bridging Theory and Practice: Delving into the Lived Realities of Local Chief Executives on Peace and Order Program Implementation
There have been no researches that shed light on the lived realities surrounding peace and order program implementation viewing from the lens of local chief executives. Researches in this area are predominantly quantitative and does not explicitly demonstrate the vividness of any experience. Hence, hinging on transcendental phenomenological approach, this study was conducted with the aim of uncovering the complexities and mechanisms underlying the peace and order program implementation. Ten mayors from various cities and municipalities in Negros Island Region, Philippines, were interviewed using purposive sampling technique and data were analyzed through Colaizzi`s method. Findings revealed that peace and order program implementation contributed to the forged alliances in the pursuit of peace and order, and consequently ameliorated safety and security within the society. However, the implementation thereof was described to be shackled by the scarcity of resources and was hampered by the misfortunes of clientelism, forcing local chief executives to resort to methodical priority-based tactic. Political culture, therefore, played a role in the implementation of the Local Government Units` implementation of the peace and order program. Nevertheless, participants described government-communal relation as a potent weapon against criminality. For better program execution, participants yearned for national legislated financial appropriation. This study recommends for international and national peace and order-related benchmarking, upgrading of peace and order-related equipment and technology, continuous training of local chief executives in public safety, crises management and community engagement, and for the augmentation of funds of the Peace and Order Council through a national legislative act.
Actor–Structure Reproduction of Drug Abuse: A Critical Sociological Study in Barru District, Indonesia
Substance misuse continues to be a pervasive and intricate social problem in Indonesia, impacting both urban and rural populations. In Barru District, South Sulawesi, despite robust communal and religious principles, drug-related offenses have escalated to alarming proportions, with 80% of local prison inmates imprisoned for drug-related offenses. This paradox underscores the need for a more comprehensive understanding that transcends both biological and criminological methodologies. Although prior research frequently emphasizes individual behavior or public health consequences, limited studies have investigated the structural and cultural reasons that perpetuate drug misuse within cohesive communities. This study critically examines the actor-structure dynamics that perpetuate drug-related practices in Barru District. The study employs qualitative approaches, including interviews, observations, and document analysis, to explore the interactions among users, local networks, institutional deficiencies, and cultural legitimization. The findings indicate four principal conclusions: the normalization of drug consumption in daily life; robust user-dealer micro-networks; institutional facilitators like discrepancies in law enforcement and inadequate rehabilitation; and the symbolic authority that legitimizes deviant behavior. These dynamics illustrate a dual process of reproduction, grounded in both agency and structure. The report advocates for a reevaluation of drug policy via community-oriented, culturally relevant interventions and systemic transformation. Subsequent studies ought to incorporate indigenous knowledge and participatory frameworks to facilitate sustainable transformation.
The Philosophy of Freedom and Its Limitations in a Democratic Legal System
This article investigates the philosophical foundations of freedom and its legal limitations within a democratic legal system, focusing on the perspectives of Hans Kelsen, Hugo Grotius, and the Indonesian model of Pancasila democracy. The study addresses the central question: how can freedom be preserved while lawfully restricted in a manner that respects justice and democratic values? This research draws on primary legal materials, judicial decisions, and philosophical theories by employing a normative juridical method combined with philosophical and conceptual approaches. The findings reveal that while freedom is a core value of democracy, it must be exercised with responsibility and within the framework of proportionate legal constraints to ensure social harmony and protect the rights of others. Kelsen's theory underscores participatory lawmaking as a compromise between majority and minority interests. Grotius insists on the rational and moral basis of law that safeguards inalienable human rights. The Indonesian context, through Pancasila democracy, offers a unique model that integrates individual liberty with communal values such as deliberation (musyawarah) and cooperation (gotong royong). The article concludes that legal systems must balance individual autonomy and collective well-being through a just, rational, and culturally grounded framework of law.
Legal Philosophy, Democracy, Freedom, Legal Limitations, Human Rights, Pancasila Democracy
Beyond Troubled Childhood: Lived Experiences of Former Children in Conflict with the Law
Crime does not discriminate, and criminals are not solely represented by a single set of characteristics. It is delicate while at the same time inevitably controversial to shed light on the circumstances of young people being entangled in the justice system for having committed an offense. It is the responsibility of the criminal justice system to safeguard their interests and encourage their reintegration into society. This study explored the lived experiences of Former Children in Conflict with the Law using transcendental phenomenology. The informants of this study were ten (10) Former CICL’s throughout the Province of Negros Occidental who were subjected to individual in-depth interview and focused group discussion. Four (4) emergent themes described the positive and negative experiences of the informants as CICLs during their rehabilitation. For the positive experiences, two (2) themes were developed, namely: The Prodigal Son is Home: Former CICLs’ Change of Heart and The Reformation of a Lost Soul: The Rehabilitation Programs in the Center. For the negative experiences, two (2) themes were formulated, namely: Disheartening Encounters with the Juvenile Justice and Welfare System in the Philippines and A Long Road Home: Challenges of the Former CICLs. As to the Coping of the Informants with the Challenges during Rehabilitation two (2) themes were created, namely: Entertainment, Companionship and Prayer, and Heaven Sent: The Kindness of a Rescuer. For the impact of the rehabilitation process, three (3) themes were formulated, to wit: Liberation: Reintegration to into the Community, Agent for Change to Fellow CICLs, and Padayon: Leaving Behind the Troubled with the Fruits of Transformation.
Former Children in Conflict with the Law, Juvenile Justice and Welfare System, Rehabilitation, Reformation and Republic Act No. 9344
The Responsibility of the Administration for the Execution of Administrative Contracts Under the Fluctuating Economic and Political Conditions in Iraq and Egypt: A Comparative Study
The research aims to shed light on the role of management responsibility in implementing administrative contracts in an unstable environment, explore the extent to which these contracts are affected by economic and political determinants, and compare the Iraqi and Egyptian experiences. The research relies on a descriptive, analytical, and comparative approach the study concluded that administrative contracts represent an effective means of achieving the public interest and managing it in an organized manner. They enable the administration to manage public facilities and ensure the efficient and continuous provision of essential services to the community. Iraqi law is more flexible in amending obligations affected by emergency circumstances, while Egyptian law imposes additional restrictions to ensure that this theory is not exploited to exempt from liability without a clear legal justification the study also recommends developing legal frameworks for administrative contracts to enable management to amend contracts in response to economic and political changes, ensuring the continuity of project implementation without disruption.
Management responsibility, administrative contracts, volatile economic and political conditions