Advisers

Edgar A. Reyes, MPA

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Domestic violence against women remains a pervasive issue in Filipino communities, often exacerbated by cultural stigma and gaps in systemic response. In Barangay 176‑A, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City, socioeconomic factors such as poverty, overcrowding, and limited access to education and social services heighten the vulnerability of women. This study examined the local dynamics of domestic violence, aiming to identify contributing factors and inform targeted interventions. A descriptive quantitative design was employed to assess perceptions of domestic violence causes and community responses. Purposive sampling selected fifty respondents across four stakeholder groups: ten Philippine National Police officials, ten Violence Against Women and Children Desk personnel, ten barangay employees, and twenty community residents. A structured questionnaire measures agreement with theoretical explanations—strain theory and social learning theory—and socioeconomic and cultural factors, as well as the perceived prevalence of victim experiences and response actions. Data were analyzed using weighted means and rank ordering. Perceptions of intervention readiness were strongest for training and seminar initiatives (mean = 3.45, strongly agree) and community awareness campaigns (propaganda; mean = 3.39, strongly agree). Economic factors (mean = 3.08), strain theory (mean = 3.05), and cultural factors (mean = 3.02) were viewed as moderate contributors to domestic violence, while social learning theory (mean = 2.76) and broader social factors (mean = 2.73) scored lower. Among victim experiences, living in constant fear of harm or retaliation ranked highest. The least reported community response was contacting a domestic violence hotline or support organization. The findings indicated that capacity‑building through training and public awareness initiatives were seen as the most effective strategies for addressing domestic violence in Barangay 176‑A. As a result, it was recommended that the barangay collaborate with the DSWD, PNP and local VAWC Desk to implement regular seminars, strengthen community outreach, and expand support hotlines. Such advocacy efforts were expected to enhance victim safety, increase community knowledge of domestic violence causes and effects, and ultimately reduce incidence rates in the barangay.

Keywords

social learning theory, domestic violence, community intervention, barangay 176‑a, women’s safety, strain theory