Advisers

Denise Anne G. Osorio, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Illegal drug use continues to threaten public safety, health, and social stability in many Filipino communities. In response, the government strengthened grassroots mechanisms such as the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) to lead prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation efforts at the barangay level. This study assessed the effectiveness of the BADAC prevention campaign in Barangay Caybiga, Caloocan City. It examined its impact on peace and order, crime rate, and community involvement, determined whether demographic characteristics influence perceptions of effectiveness, and identified implementation challenges encountered by council members. A quantitative research design was employed to systematically gather and analyze numerical data. The study involved fifty (50) respondents comprising twenty-five (25) barangay personnel and twenty-five (25) community residents aged 18 years and above. Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure relevance to the research objectives. Data were collected through a validated survey questionnaire consisting of four parts: demographic profile, assessment of campaign effectiveness, identified challenges, and proposed measures. Statistical tools including frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ranking, and t-test were applied using a four-point rating scale to interpret the results objectively. Findings revealed that most respondents were aged 18–25, predominantly female, single, and high school graduates. Respondents strongly agreed that the BADAC prevention campaign is effective in strengthening peace and order, reducing drug-related crimes, and promoting community participation. High ratings were given to indicators such as minimizing drug-related disturbances, consistent law enforcement, visible patrolling, and fostering trust that encourages residents to report incidents. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in the assessment of effectiveness when grouped according to age, sex, civil status, and educational attainment, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. The study concludes that BADAC initiatives in Barangay Caybiga are generally perceived as effective and positively contribute to public safety and community engagement. However, limited awareness and participation may restrict their full potential. Strengthening information dissemination, youth-centered activities, inter-agency coordination, and continuous monitoring is recommended to enhance sustainability.

Keywords

Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) Effectiveness, Community-Based Drug Prevention, Peace and Order Enhancement