CRISIS NEGOTIATION TEAM: THEIR ROLE IN HANDLING HOSTAGE SITUATION

This study aimed to determine the role of Crisis Negotiation Team in handling hostage situation. The gathering of data was conducted in PNP Lucena and its substations and the researchers utilized the descriptive-survey method of research. A total of 100 respondents answered the questionnaire composed of PNP respondents. Findings revealed that crisis negotiation team helps to save lives and properties as well as successfully resolves myriad of incidents. In terms of necessity, the respondents perceived that it is necessary to have crisis negotiation team in every locality trained and ready for deployment. In terms of planning, they said that planning about what would happen in the future is the best way to ensure success. Meanwhile, in terms of the role of crisis negotiation team in minimizing loss of lives and resolving myriad of incidents, they said that negotiator must analyze the situation and try to bring about the non-violent resolution to prevent injury or death and incident such as hostage takings, suicide and barricaded situation must be contained prior to the start of the negotiation to prevent any injury or death. Since hostage taking occurs not only in the Philippines but all over the world law enforcement agencies concerned with the protection and safety of citizens of the Philippnes , it is recommended that they go further trainings and seminars to enhance their knowledge and more effective in handling hostage situation. Therefore, additional methods and strategies must be applied to fully attain effectiveness.