Abstract

This study examined Barangay Commonwealth's crime-fighting efficacy, focusing on visibility, responsiveness, and equipment and facility quality. As one of Quezon City's most populous barangays, it experiences theft, physical injury, and drug-related issues. Based on Situational Crime Prevention Theory, the study explored how barangay environmental and operational tactics reduce crime. The study evaluated current measures, examined demographic disparities in assessment, identified important issues, and proposed an intervention program to improve local crime prevention. A quantitative descriptive research design was employed. Data were gathered from 50 purposively selected respondents comprising 30 community residents, 10 barangay personnel, and 10 police officers from Manggahan, Barangay Commonwealth. A self-constructed survey questionnaire, validated by a research adviser, statistician, and language expert, was used as the primary instrument. Statistical tools included frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ranking, four-point Likert scale, and t-test to determine significant differences based on age, sex, educational attainment, and length of residency. Findings revealed that respondents generally agreed that the barangay is effective in combating criminality. Visibility and responsiveness both obtained an overall weighted mean of 3.25 (Agree), while equipment and facilities garnered a mean of 3.14 (Agree). The highest-rated indicators included the deterrent effect of barangay personnel presence and timely communication during emergencies. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in assessment when grouped according to demographic profile. However, the most pressing problem identified was the lack of cooperation from residents in reporting crimes, followed by poor street lighting and ineffective ordinance implementation. While current techniques are beneficial, community engagement and infrastructure support are still lacking, according to the report. Enhancing participatory reporting mechanisms, high-risk lighting, ordinance enforcement, and financial and equipment sustainability are advocated. The proposed intervention strategies strengthen police-community partnerships, boost public trust, and boost efficiency. The findings show that collaborative governance and data-driven planning are essential for peace and order in urban barangays.