Written by Eloise Dumapis & Ronald Taberdo
On February 23, 2025, a total of 176 Criminology and Forensic Science interns from the University of Baguio’s School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (UB SCJPS) were deployed alongside 1,800 Baguio City police officers to ensure safety, security, and the smooth operation of the highly anticipated Grand Float Parade at the 29th Panagbenga Festival.
As part of their hands-on training, interns from Class Sinag-Dasig had the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, preparing them for future roles in law enforcement. This experience reflects the university’s commitment to providing students with practical learning opportunities and enhancing their preparedness for public safety duties.
A Celebration of Culture and Creativity
The Annual Flower Festival of Baguio City, themed “Blossom Beyond Boundaries,” celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talents. This year’s theme underscores the idea that growth knows no limits, emphasizing creativity, passion, and unity within the community. The festival serves as a cultural bridge and platform that not only showcases Baguio’s artistry but also captivates the hearts of tourists from all over the country.
The Grand Floral Parade commenced with a performance by the Philippine Military Academy, featuring lively tunes and dynamic choreography, followed by the Panagbenga Open Painting Exhibition. The highlight of the event was the 42 vibrant floats, categorized into Non-Competing Floats and Competing Floats. The competing floats were further divided into 11 small, 10 medium, and 14 large floats. The parade started at Luneta Hill, proceeded along Session Road, and concluded at Melvin Jones Grandstand, where the floats were judged and later displayed for tourists to view up close.
Enhancing Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills
A primary objective of this initiative was to foster camaraderie and teamwork among interns, particularly within Class Sinag-Dasig. Through their deployment, interns developed a strong sense of unity and cooperation, enabling them to work effectively in high-pressure situations. By coordinating with one another and with BCPO officers, they strengthened their ability to function as a cohesive team, ensuring a safe and orderly environment during the event.
Furthermore, the experience enhanced the interns’ strategic and problem-solving skills, particularly in managing crowd behavior during large-scale events. They learned to assess situations in real time, make quick and informed decisions, and apply appropriate crowd control measures to mitigate potential issues. This hands-on exposure provided them with the necessary expertise to monitor, analyze, and effectively manage public gatherings, thereby preparing them for future roles in law enforcement and public safety.
Real-World Application and Professional Growth
The deployment allowed interns to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, refining their ability to assess and respond to real-time situations. By working alongside BCPO officers, they gained insights into effective crowd management techniques, situational awareness, and communication strategies crucial for maintaining order during high-profile public gatherings.
Moreover, this initiative aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing the significance of education, employment, institutional strength, and partnerships. Through hands-on training, the interns enhanced their preparedness for future careers in law enforcement, strengthened their leadership skills, and contributed to public safety efforts. The collaboration between UB SCJPS and BCPO exemplifies the value of inter-agency cooperation in promoting peace and security in the community.
