NAME: PRECILLA C.
TULINGAN
SUBJECT: ETHICS AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE
ADMINISTRATION
ACTIVITY 1: Real-World Ethical Dilemma: “The Whistleblower Dilemma in the
Police Force”
Scenario:
You are the newly appointed Police Director of a highly urbanized city in Metro Manila,
Philippines. A few weeks into your assignment, an anonymous internal report reaches
your office stating that several senior officers in your anti-drug operations unit are
allegedly involved in “recycling” confiscated illegal drugs—reselling them in the
black market and planting them as evidence in weak cases to boost conviction rates.
A reliable junior officer discreetly confirms that this practice has been ongoing for
months and that the unit’s previous director may have tolerated it. No formal complaint
has been filed because of fear of retaliation. The accused officers have long-standing
reputations, numerous awards, and political backing.
You are now faced with a critical decision:
Conducting a full-blown internal investigation could dismantle the entire unit,
damage public trust, and possibly implicate high-ranking officials.
Remaining silent and waiting for more concrete evidence might keep operations
running smoothly—but potentially at the cost of justice, integrity, and public
safety.
Your Task as Students:
As future/member/practitioner in criminal justice administrators, analyze this situation
and answer the following:
Questions:
1. What course of action should you take as the Police Director? Justify your
decision.
Answer: As the newly appointed Police Director, I would initiate a discreet but
thorough internal investigation through the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) or an external
oversight body such as the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) or the
Commission on Human Rights (CHR), in collaboration with trusted and neutral third-
party investigators. This course of action balances the need for accountability and
justice with the protection of the institution’s integrity.
The allegations involve severe breaches of public trust, rule of law, and police
ethics. Ignoring them would perpetuate a culture of impunity and compromise public
safety. While the accused officers have reputations and political backing, my duty is to
uphold the law without fear or favor. The principle of command responsibility also
compels me to act decisively. To ensure confidentiality and reduce the risk of retaliation,
I would employ secure whistleblower protection mechanisms for those willing to testify.
2. Which ethical theory or theories would you apply in making your decision?
Choose from: Deontology; Utilitarianism; and Virtue Ethics
Answer: I would apply Deontology and Virtue Ethics in making this decision.
Deontology emphasizes duty, rules, and obligations. As a law enforcement officer, I
have a moral and legal duty to uphold the Constitution, the law, and the ethical
standards of policing. Regardless of the consequences, the act of exposing and
addressing corruption is inherently right and mandated by our professional code of
conduct.
Virtue Ethics focuses on moral character. As a leader, I must model integrity,
courage, and justice. Allowing wrongdoing to persist—even under pressure—would
betray not only the public but also my role as a moral agent within the organization.
Acting virtuously reinforces a culture of ethical policing and inspires subordinates to do
the same.
3. What are the possible consequences of your chosen course of action, for
the organization, for public trust, and for justice?
Answer: For the organization: In the short term, exposing corruption may lead to
operational disruptions, including the potential dismantling of the anti-drug unit, internal
conflict, and reputational damage. However, these immediate challenges are
outweighed by long-term benefits such as institutional cleansing, the restoration of
discipline, and the re-establishment of an ethical and accountable culture within the
force.
For public trust: Initially, the revelation of misconduct may provoke public outrage or
skepticism. Yet, over time, the commitment to transparency and accountability can
strengthen citizens’ trust in law enforcement. Demonstrating that no officer is above the
law affirms that the Philippine National Police (PNP) prioritizes integrity and public
service over internal loyalty.
For justice: Holding wrongdoers accountable reinforces the principles of fairness and
the rule of law. It deters future misconduct and helps correct past injustices—particularly
for individuals who may have been falsely accused due to fabricated evidence. Such
actions enhance the credibility of the justice system and affirm its commitment to truth
and equity.
4. Would your approach differ if you were under direct political pressure to
suppress the issue? Why or why not?
Answer: No, my approach would not differ, even under political pressure.
Upholding the law must transcend political interests. Political interference in criminal
justice administration erodes institutional independence and undermines democratic
governance. While such pressure presents real risks—such as reassignment, demotion,
or personal threats—succumbing to it would make me complicit in corruption.
Instead, I would document all actions taken and, if necessary, seek support from
oversight bodies, media transparency, and civil society organizations. Remaining
steadfast under pressure reflects commitment to ethical leadership and the moral
courage expected of a police officer.
Goal of the Activity:
To help students develop:
Critical thinking and ethical reasoning
Familiarity with applying abstract ethical theories to concrete decisions
Leadership skills in navigating complex, high-stakes situations in criminal justice
