LOS ANGELES, California - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is reaching out to overseas Filipinos with its Global Police Community Relations program.

Through the PNP Police Community Relations Group's (PCRG) website as well as Twitter and Facebook pages, Filipinos will have a chance to report crimes from abroad and seek assistance from Philippine-based law enforcement.

“Our foremost concern in launching the Global PCR is to connect to all our kababayans abroad. We’ll be able to answer whatever concerns or queries. Or, in our own little way, we’ll be able to address their problems especially the emotional problems that they will encounter if their loved ones left in the Philippines are encountering also some emotional problems,” said Chief Supt. Rhodel Sermonia.

Filipinos in Los Angeles with ties back in the Philippines were quick to express concern over crimes in their neighborhood.

But aside from tips that may prevent crimes, Sermonia said the Global PCR program will also serve as a platform for the PNP to show some of the rehabilitation and livelihood programs in the Philippines.

Sermonia added that creating global community relations has also helped open the door for other international law enforcement agencies to do partnerships with the PNP.

Aside from a strong online and social media component, part of the initiative will include the posting of police attachés based in San Francisco and one in the east coast.

Read more on Balitang America: