Advisers

Divine Grace Rapsing

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Domestic violence remains a pressing social and legal issue in the Philippines. Under Republic Act No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, Barangay Protection Orders (BPOs) serve as immediate legal remedies to safeguard victims from further harm. As frontline institutions, barangays play a vital role in issuing, enforcing, and supporting BPO implementation. However, challenges such as limited awareness, resource constraints, and inconsistent enforcement affect their overall effectiveness. This study assessed the strategies in preventing domestic violence through Barangay Protection Orders in Novaliches, Quezon City, focusing on awareness, enforcement, and support services. This study employed a descriptive quantitative research design involving 80 respondents composed of 65 Barangay Residents, 10 Barangay Officials, and 5 VAWC Desk Officers in Novaliches, Quezon City. Data were gathered using a validated survey questionnaire and analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and inferential statistics to determine the effectiveness of BPO strategies and identify significant differences in assessments when grouped according to age, sex, and respondent category. Findings revealed that the strategies in preventing domestic violence through Barangay Protection Orders were assessed as “Very Effective, ” with awareness obtaining a General Weighted Mean (GWM) of 3.52, enforcement at 3.58, and support services at 3.52. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in respondents’ assessment when grouped according to category, sex, and age, as all computed p-values were greater than the 0.05 level of significance. The most identified problem was lack of awareness among residents regarding Barangay Protection Orders, followed by limited access to shelters or legal aid and insufficient funding for VAWC desk operations. The findings indicate that while BPO-related strategies in Novaliches are generally effective, improvements are necessary to address awareness gaps and resource limitations. Strengthening house-to-house information campaigns, enhancing coordination among barangay officials and law enforcement agencies, and allocating sufficient budget for support services are essential to sustain and improve domestic violence prevention efforts. Effective enforcement combined with accessible support systems can significantly enhance victim protection and promote safer communities at the grassroots level.

Keywords

Awareness, Support Services, enforcement, domestic violence, barangay protection order, ra 9262