ASEANAPOL Executive Director Inspires Future Law Enforcers at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU)

On 28 March, ASEANAPOL Executive Director David Martinez Vinluan, served as the guest speaker at a forum hosted by the College of Criminal Justice Education at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU). He was warmly received by Dr. Mario Ritchie Hibionada, Dean of the College and Associate Professor Jiemar Arabani along with approximately 100 graduating students of the Bachelor of Science in Criminology program, young individuals preparing to become the next generation of law enforcement professionals in the Philippines.

WMSU’s College of Criminal Justice Education, recently recognized as a Top Performing School in the February 2025 Criminology Licensure Examination, is widely respected for its strong focus on leadership, integrity, accountability, and research. The forum provided a timely opportunity to reinforce these core values and deepen students' understanding of ethical and community-centered policing.

Executive Director Vinluan, joined by Mr. Roland Elviña and Ms. Estrella Tan members of the Bless Our Cops (BOC) Movement and Police Major Melvin Solmayor of the Zamboanga City Police Office, underscored the vital importance of professionalism, ethical conduct, and genuine public service in law enforcement. The BOC Movement—a faith-based, non-denominational initiative supported by the Philippine National Police Directorate for Police Community Relations—advocates for the spiritual and moral renewal of police officers and their families. It offers regular values formation, counselling, prayer support, and family-oriented programs aimed at building the internal strength and emotional resilience of law enforcers.

Rooted in the principles of faith, compassion, and integrity, the BOC Movement addresses the mental and emotional challenges faced by police personnel, particularly in high-risk and high-stress areas such as Zamboanga City. By promoting servant leadership, accountability, and humility, the movement supports the broader vision of community-oriented policing.

This engagement also reflects ASEANAPOL’s ongoing commitment to nurturing ethical law enforcement leaders across the region. By supporting transformative initiatives like the BOC Movement, the ASEANAPOL Secretariat reaffirms its vision of a peaceful and secure ASEAN community—anchored on trust, empathy, and professionalism. ASEANAPOL believes that regional security begins with morally grounded, mentally resilient, and community-connected officers—individuals who not only uphold the law but also inspire public confidence through character and compassion.

WMSU wholeheartedly welcomes the BOC Movement’s involvement, recognizing its potential to positively shape students' personal and professional journeys. By allowing life coaches to accompany students through their formative years, the school believes this initiative will help instil a strong moral compass and a sense of purpose. As these future law enforcers enter public service, this foundation in values and ethical decision-making will empower them to lead with integrity and serve with honor. The university fully supports this partnership, as it aligns with its mission to produce not only competent professionals but also principled and service-driven leaders.