Senator Cynthia Villar said teaching police cadets farming skills is aligned with the mission of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) to provide comprehensive education and training to future policemen.
“Having farming skills truly resonates with the principles and purpose of law enforcement,” Villar, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, said.
“Understanding farming and the unique challenges it presents will help you connect more deeply with these communities. These connections can foster trust and cooperation, which are essential elements for you to carry out your police work more effectively,” she told cadets.
Villar was the Guest Speaker during the flag-raising ceremony of the PNPA in Silang, Cavite.
She thanked PNPA Director Police Major General Eric Noble for inviting her to be part of this event.
“I have been informed that my strong advocacy for agriculture aligns with PNPA’s belief that policemen possessing farming skills can significantly enhance the police service within the communities they serve,” she said.
The senator told the cadets that as future police officers, they are likely to be stationed in places where agriculture plays a critical role.
She also told future police officers that they can actively participate building food security and fostering a safer environment by sharing their farming knowledge, educating local communities, and empowering farmers.
“When communities have consistent access to nutritious food, they tend to be more stable, peaceful, and less inclined to engage in unlawful activities,” noted the senator.
Equipped with farming knowledge, Villar told the cadets that they can also actively contribute to disaster preparedness and recovery efforts, particularly in rural areas heavily reliant on farming.
“Embracing sustainable farming practices further emphasizes your role as protectors, extending beyond people to safeguarding our environment,” he added.