Abstract
The primary function of the Barangay Peace and Order Committee is to mitigate crimes within its jurisdiction by carrying out activities that safeguard the rights and properties of all residents. This study aimed to support Area Monitoring Officers and Taskforces in enhancing their understanding of the current crime-related circumstances in the community. One major concern addressed in this research is the threat posed by fraternity groups, which often engage in violent activities such as hazing, gang warfare, rioting, and other crimes associated with organized fraternities. The researchers conducted a descriptive study to examine the role of the Barangay Peace and Order Committee (BPOC) in mitigating fraternity-related violence in Bagong Silang Phase 9, Caloocan City. The purpose of the study was to gather data that would help assess the respondents’ awareness of how the BPOC contributes to addressing fraternity-related incidents. A total of fifty (50) respondents participated in the study, divided into three groups: ten (10) Task Force members, ten (10) Area Monitoring Officers, and thirty (30) community residents. Most of the respondents were aged 42–50 years old, female, married, and high school graduates, with 4 to 6 years of service or residency in the community. The respondents’ assessment of the role of the Barangay Peace and Order Committee (BPOC) in mitigating fraternity-related violence in Bagong Silang Phase 9, Caloocan City, was interpreted as “Strongly Agree, ” particularly in the areas of conflict resolution, coordination with law enforcement, and promoting community awareness. The most commonly encountered problem by the BPOC was the weak prosecution of fraternity-related crimes. To address this issue, the study proposes the establishment of a dedicated task force composed of law enforcement personnel, community leaders, and representatives to foster open communication and build trust within the community. The discussion highlights the conclusion and possible recommendations derived from the study, which aimed to determine the role of the Barangay Peace and Order Committee (BPOC) in mitigating fraternity-related violence. The findings revealed that 39 out of 50 respondents, representing an average of 78%, identified the weak prosecution of fraternity-related crimes as the most pressing issue. In response to this, a key recommendation is to strengthen peacekeeping efforts through increased community involvement, in collaboration with the BPOC and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), to enhance preventive measures and promote a more coordinated response to fraternity-related violence.
