Isabela State University (ISU) under the initiative of the University Security Office in collaboration with the University Professional Development Training Institute (UPDTI), conducted a Campus Security and Basic VIP Protection Training on February 1-3, 2024.

The University-wide training is a specialized course dedicated to ensure the 360-degree protection of the University community and its officials, as well as visiting personalities from other agencies and institutions. It is composed of various aspects of training, both theoretical and practical, anchored on achieving Sustainable Development Goal #16 to promote peaceful and inclusive societies and provide effective access to justice at all levels.

According to Dr. Jesusimo L. Dioses Jr. (University Director, UPDTI), the training to be facilitated by active and retired officials of the University headed by Lt. Col. Noel B. Martinez, is a move to strengthen the Anti-Terrorism efforts of the University. He also added that due to the recent threats received by state universities and colleges (SUCs), the training would help security personnel to assess and implement preventive measures.

“These community problems are real. Totoo ito, hindi imaginary. Kaya dapat, alerto tayo. ‘Yun lang naman ang hinihingi natin and by way of this very good training that we will be undertaking, I am hopeful na ma-iimprove ang inyong sarili as very good security guards,” Atty. Romano P. Cammayo (University Vice President, Administrative and Finance Services) hoped in his message, as he emphasized the importance of the event to address the current security concerns of the University.

The first day of the training held at the University saw the theoretical and knowledge aspect of the course. The general role, functions, and duties of security guards and VIP protection officers were discussed. It was followed by a lecture on administrative sanctions and penalties as well as the discussion of the Security Operations Journal. The first day served as a preparation for the participants to expand their practical skills over the next days of the training.

During the second day, the participants gathered at the GZAC Firing Range and kicked off their Basic Military Drill. Afterwards, practical lessons on defensive handgun and marksmanship were shared along with a reminder on gun safety and its adherence to the Revised Penal Code (Republic Act 10951) of the Republic of the Philippines.

On its third and last day, the participants’ field experience continued with the continuation of the security guards’ drill time and marksmanship training, and the VIP Techniques Execution focused on direct, mobile, and static protection. To conclude, the participants had a post-test and evaluation to test their learnings and application.

The said course will be having its second batch of trainees which will be held on February 8-10, 2024, aiming to bring the same quality and level of service.