Work World of the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP-SOCO): A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

This study explored the work world of the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP-SOCO). Specifically, this study sought to answer the following: the positive and negative experiences of the informants, addressing the challenges encountered during the performance of their duties and the aspiration of the informants to improve the quality of RFU7-SOCO. This study employs a qualitative research design, utilizing a phenomenological approach. This inquiry utilizes ten (10) informants from the Regional Forensic 7 and members of the SOCO with at least 5 years of experience. Using a validated interview guide with open-ended questions prepared by the researcher, the informants were all interviewed individually. Colaizzi’s thematic analysis was employed to analyze the collected data.
Three themes summarized the positive experiences of the informants. These were: Preparedness and Role Clarity Boost Confidence and Effectiveness, Team Coordination and Communication Enhance Operational Success and Evidence Recovery Skills Directly Impact Investigation Outcomes. As to the negative experiences, the themes revealed were: Inadequate Crime Scene Management and Logistics, Evidence Contamination and Improper Collection and Need for Enhanced Availability of Standard Comparison Materials for Forensic Examination. To address the challenges encountered as SOCO Members in the performance of their duties three themes were created: Professionalism, Integrity, and Faith in Handling, Effective Communication, Collaboration and Coordination and Adaptive Coping and Problem-Solving Strategies. And three emergent theme to express the aspiration of the informants to improve their performance as SOCO member, to wit: Strengthening Workforce and Resource Capacity, Enhancing Training Programs and Standards, and Upholding and Improving Standards of Practices.
The researcher advocates a qualitative exploration of the lived realities of Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCOs) deployed to Regional Forensic Unit 7. This study aims to deliver a comprehensive examination of the distinct obstacles encountered in crime scene processing, evidence retrieval, and meticulous documentation. By closely analyzing these experiences, the study may provide actionable recommendations addressing the operational, structural, and psychological dimensions of their roles. Recognizing these obstacles could improve investigative protocols, safeguard the authenticity of evidence, and ultimately facilitate the effective prosecution of cases.