Advisers

Denise Anne G. Osorio, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study focused on evaluating the current policing techniques employed in Barangay 176, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City, to assess their effectiveness in addressing community safety and crime prevention. Given the area’s dense population and prevalent issues such as theft and drug-related offenses, understanding the impact of existing strategies is essential. Current policing methods include foot patrols, community policing programs, and collaboration with local organizations. These initiatives aim to enhance public safety and foster community trust. Evaluating these techniques is crucial to determining their relevance and effectiveness within the context of the barangay’s unique socio-economic conditions. The study used a descriptive research design and employs purposive sampling. A total of forty (40) respondents—comprising thirty (30) residents and ten (10) barangay officials—participated by answering structured questionnaires. The instrument measured perceptions of three main policing techniques: regular neighborhood meetings, social media public education campaigns, and community-police collaboration. The data collected were analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and ranking to determine the effectiveness of each strategy. The majority of respondents were male, aged 51 and above, and had attained tertiary education. Regular neighborhood meetings received the highest composite mean of 3.44, with the strongest agreement observed in encouraging community participation (3.58). Social media campaigns followed with a mean score of 3.42, particularly noted for raising awareness (3.48). Community-police collaboration obtained a composite mean of 3.35, with perceived safety improvement rated highest (3.41). Among the challenges identified were lack of awareness (17.84%), limited digital access or literacy (13.14%), and the spread of misinformation (12.67%). The findings indicated that while current policing strategies in Barangay 176 are generally effective and positively perceived, notable gaps exist in public awareness and digital engagement. To improve these efforts, the study recommends enhancing the visibility of community programs through posters, mobile public announcements, and increased social media activity. Additionally, providing digital literacy workshops and encouraging stronger community involvement are suggested. These enhancements may serve as a practical model for other barangays aiming to strengthen local policing and community safety initiatives.

Keywords

crime prevention, community policing, public safety, barangay security, social media campaigns, neighborhood meetings