Advisers

Irene D. Gaviola, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Between January and October 2025, Barangay 178, Camarin, Caloocan City recorded 87 crimes, including theft, physical altercations, and drug abuse. These incidents were largely attributed to congestion, poverty, and squatter areas, which hinder effective police monitoring. Despite regular patrols and community activities, criminality persists, prompting this study to evaluate the effectiveness of Sub-Station 10 in maintaining peace and order and to identify areas for improvement in police strategies. The research employed a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design with stratified random sampling. Respondents included 15 police officers and 35 residents, ensuring both institutional and civilian perspectives. Demographic analysis showed that the 34–41 age group (24%) was most represented, with males (68%) forming the majority. Among police officers, those with over 10 years of service (40%) dominated, reflecting institutional maturity. Findings revealed strong perceptions of Sub-Station 10’s operational effectiveness. Strategic deployment of officers (mean rating 3.67, Highly Capable) ranked highest in manpower, while adequate resources for daily operations (3.62, Highly Capable) led in logistics. Community engagement was also positively assessed, with police presence making residents feel safer (3.62, Highly Capable). In intelligence, crime mapping and surveillance (3.53, Highly Capable) were rated strongest. However, significant challenges were identified. Poor coordination between police and community members (98%), lack of community awareness (96%), and insufficient personnel (96%) emerged as critical issues. These gaps suggest that while Sub-Station 10 demonstrates competence in operations, relational and resource-based weaknesses undermine its overall effectiveness. The study concludes that Sub-Station 10 requires a comprehensive enhancement program focusing on manpower, logistics, community engagement, and intelligence. Recommendations include recruiting additional personnel, upgrading equipment and technological tools, and implementing intensified community awareness campaigns. Regular police-community dialogues and improved intelligence-sharing mechanisms are also emphasized. Strengthening collaboration between residents and authorities through structured engagement activities is seen as vital to improving effectiveness.

Keywords

crime prevention, community policing, operational effectiveness