Advisers

Jinky A. Gutierrez, MSCrim

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of the Safe Spaces Act (Republic Act No. 11313) in Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela City. It evaluated enforcement practices of barangay officials and police personnel, focusing on policy implementation, reporting and documentation, and community engagement. The research also analyzed differences in respondents’ evaluations, identified implementation challenges, and proposed programs to improve enforcement at the barangay level. Guided by Procedural Justice Theory, the study considered respondents’ demographic profiles and their perceptions of the law’s effectiveness. The study used a quantitative descriptive research design and a self-made survey questionnaire to collect data from 50 purposively selected respondents, including barangay officials, police officers, and community members. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ranking, and ANOVA to determine if there was a significant difference in their evaluation of the effectiveness of Republic Act No. 11313 based on respondent category. The findings showed that Republic Act No. 11313 is perceived as very effective in Barangay Ugong in terms of policy implementation, reporting and documentation practices, and community engagement. Respondents agreed that barangay officials and police personnel properly enforce the law, maintain confidentiality of cases, and conduct awareness initiatives. Statistical analysis also revealed no significant difference in the evaluation of effectiveness among barangay officials, police officers, and community members. The study concludes that Republic Act No. 11313 is effectively implemented at the barangay level. However, continuous training, improved reporting systems, and sustained community education programs are recommended to further strengthen enforcement. The results highlight the importance of cooperation among barangay officials, police personnel, and the community in ensuring safe and gender-responsive public spaces.

Keywords

Safe Spaces Act, Policy Implementation, community engagement, barangay enforcement, reporting system, gender-based harassment