Advisers

Divine Grace Rapsing

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study evaluated the security measures put in place to stop theft incidences in Quezon City's United North Fairview Subdivision. The safety, sense of security, and quality of life of inhabitants in residential communities in the Philippines are all negatively impacted by theft, which continues to be one of the most common crimes. Theft incidences persist despite the presence of security measures such gated entrances, security guards, CCTV cameras, lighting systems, and alarm devices, suggesting potential weaknesses in implementation, upkeep, coordination. The research employed quantitative descriptive design and involved fifty-eight (58) respondents composed of homeowners, barangay officials, law enforcement and security personnel. Data were gathered using a structured survey questionnaire that assessed physical security (security locks and lighting), personnel security (residents and staff), and technological security (alarms and CCTV cameras). Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, ranking, weighted mean, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed that respondents generally rated the existing security measures as highly effective, particularly in terms of security locks and lighting, which were perceived as strong deterrents against theft. However, several problems were identified, including inconsistent monitoring, limited CCTV coverage, delayed response time of security personnel, malfunctioning alarms, and resident negligence such as failure to secure doors and valuables. The results further emphasized that effective theft prevention is not solely dependent on technological and physical measures but also on human factors such as vigilance, awareness, and cooperation among residents, barangay officials, and security personnel. Guided by Crime Prevention Theory, the study highlighted the importance of target hardening, increased guardianship, and reduction of criminal opportunities through a layered security approach. The study concludes that strengthening coordination, improving maintenance of security equipment, increasing patrol visibility, enhancing CCTV coverage, and conducting regular community safety seminars can significantly improve the effectiveness of theft prevention measures. Overall, the research underscores that community-based collaboration and shared responsibility are essential in sustaining safety and reducing theft incidents in residential subdivisions.

Keywords

quantitative research, theft prevention, security effectiveness, crime prevention theory