Abstract

This criminological study evaluates the enforcement capacity of the Public Safety Traffic Management Department (PSTMD) in Barangay 177, Caloocan City, aiming to identify strengths, gaps, and actionable improvements. A purposive sample of 50 respondents 10 traffic enforcers and 40 road users was surveyed using a four-point instrument; demographic data show that 60% are aged 18 24, 66% are male, and 58% hold at least a college degree. Frequency, percentage, and weighted mean analyses were applied. Findings reveal that overall capabilities are perceived as “Capable.” System and Procedure achieved a weighted mean of 2.86, with “staff are well trained to operate enforcement technology” scoring the highest (3.06, Very Capable). Resources obtained a mean of 2.77; the indicator “adequate number of traffic control personnel for peak hours” led with 2.94. Manpower scored 2.88, where “personnel are adequately trained on traffic law regulations and enforcement procedures” ranked highest at 2.96. The most critical challenge, cited by 12.55% of respondents, is weak documentation and reporting procedures. Other notable issues include lack of policy awareness, unclear policy guidelines, overlapping jurisdiction, and insufficient legal authority. Based on these results, the study proposes a suite of interventions: a city wide policy guideline development workshop, establishment of a barangay level legal aid desk, quarterly policy awareness campaigns, a standardized cloud based reporting platform, and a biennial ordinance review cycle. The findings of this study have significant implications for criminology and traffic management. The proposed interventions aim to address the identified gaps and improve PSTMD's enforcement capacity, ultimately contributing to a reduction in traffic-related crimes and accidents. The study highlights the importance of effective documentation and reporting procedures, policy awareness, and legal support in ensuring road safety. The recommendations provided can serve as a guide for policymakers and law enforcement agencies in developing strategies to enhance traffic management and enforcement. Furthermore, this study serves as a foundation for future research on traffic law enforcement and criminology, providing insights into the complexities of traffic management and the need for evidence-based interventions.