SLSU, LGU Sogod, and PNP Launch AI-Driven Municipal Crime and Accident Management System

Sogod, Southern Leyte – July 2, 2025 — In a landmark move toward smart governance and safer communities, Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Sogod and the Philippine National Police (PNP), officially turned over the Municipal Crime and Accident Management System during a ceremonial program held at the Municipal Conference Hall.

The system, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the project titled “Application of Geospatial and AI Technologies for Municipal Crime and Accident Management System,” is the first of its kind in the region. It utilizes artificial intelligence and geospatial mapping to aid in crime prediction, monitoring, and incident response.

The event began with AVP presentations of the National Anthem and a prayer, followed by the program proper. Hon. Jose Ramil G. Golo, Municipal Vice Mayor, welcomed attendees and underscored the system’s relevance to local governance and citizen safety.

Dr. Czarina Ancella G. Gabi, Project Member and Dean of the Faculty of Computer Studies and Information Technology (FCSIT), emphasized the project's goal of integrating innovation with community needs through collaboration among academe, LGU, and law enforcement.

Ms. Jannie Fleur V. Oraño, Head of the GIS Tech Center and Project Leader, showcased the system’s capabilities, highlighting how AI and mapping tools can help identify crime hotspots, analyze trends, and support timely response mechanisms.

During the formal turnover, SLSU, LGU Sogod, and PNP representatives symbolically passed the project into the hands of the community, signifying a unified effort for public safety and digital innovation.

In his message, Dr. Jude A. Duarte, SLSU President, expressed deep gratitude to DOST for funding the project and recognized the project team’s dedication. “This would not have been possible without the support of DOST. We hope this is just one of many innovations to come that directly impact our communities,” he said.

Hon. Sheffered Lino S. Tan, Municipal Mayor, extended his heartfelt appreciation to SLSU for initiating the project. He proposed a pilot implementation in one barangay and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the LGU, the police, and the community. “When there is peace and order, the implementation of technologies like this becomes smoother. Let’s start small and build bigger,” he noted.

Meanwhile, PMAJ Alfred Reynald M. Dauz, Acting Chief of Police of PNP-Sogod, expressed his strong support for the system and conveyed high hopes for its full-scale implementation. “We are positive that with full cooperation from all sectors, the implementation of this technology will reach 100% by the end of the year. If the outcomes prove favorable and the features become more advanced and refined, there is a strong possibility that this system can be adopted not only province-wide but also across the region,” he said.

He also recalled the rigorous evaluation process that the system underwent, emphasizing the careful assessment of its features alongside Ms. Jannie Fleur V. Oraño, Head of the GIS Tech Center. “We made sure to thoroughly assess the system’s capabilities, accuracy, and relevance to real-world scenarios,” he added, highlighting their shared commitment to ensuring the system meets operational standards and addresses the actual needs of law enforcement on the ground.

Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, SLSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services (VPRIES), closed the ceremony with a forward-looking message. She reaffirmed SLSU’s commitment to support the project's sustainability, stating that budgetary proposals will be submitted for its continuous development. Dr. Sy also aligned the project with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), citing SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). “This is not the end of the partnership, but just the beginning,” she declared.

The event ended with a group photo opportunity, symbolizing a shared commitment to public safety, innovation, and sustainable local development.

Engr. Emmanueal M. Cabanig, Head of Communication Unit served as the master of ceremonies for the event.