Phone app makes Ilocos Norte police services accessible to public

The Ilocos Norte provincial police office launches a new smartphone app to make the public avail of its services more conveniently. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Information Agency Ilocos Norte)

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte—With just a few clicks, the public can report an emergency and connect with local peace and security officials as the Ilocos Norte provincial police office (INPPO) unveiled a new smartphone app.

In a Facebook statement on Tuesday (October 11), the INPPO said the Google Android-based app would allow users, including residents and tourists, to reach out to police officers at any time of the day and request police clearances right at their fingertips.

The app, called iPOLICE (iLocos Police online Law Enforcement, Investigation, Community Affairs and Emergency Services), was created under the Secured, Mobile, Artificial Intelligence-Driven, Real-Time, Technology (SMART) road map of the Philippine National Police.

Col. Julius Suriben, police provincial director, said in a statement that the new digital tool would pave the way for “better accessibility, faster services, and convenience” in availing of police services by the public.

The app is the first of its kind launched by a local police station in the country, with Suriben pledging to look for more opportunities to harness the advantages of technology in improving the peace and safety situation in the province.

The app has a one-tap emergency helpline where the public can immediately connect to police stations, including fire stations, hospitals, the provincial government and disaster emergency offices.

Users could also lodge complaints, queries, and concerns about public safety, peace, and order through its message board, which the Data Privacy Act covers, according to INPPO.

They could also request clearances and secure requirements for a license to own and possess firearms, INPPO added.

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