Abstract

This study examined the effects of drug-related crime on the community of Phase 12, Tala, Barangay 188, Caloocan City. It focused on community fear and anxiety, perceptions of drug-related violence, public safety, and residents’ willingness to use crime-reporting mechanisms. This research employed a descriptive-quantitative approach to systematically evaluate the effects of drug-related offenses within the Phase 12 Tala community of Barangay 188, Caloocan City. To gather focused insights, the study used purposive sampling, selecting 50 participants who met specific criteria: 10 police officers, 10 barangay officials, and 30 local residents, all aged 18 or older. This non-probability sampling method was chosen to ensure data relevance and manage logistical constraints effectively. Data collection was conducted primarily through a structured survey questionnaire. The study surveyed 50 participants, primarily middle-aged and elderly males (58%). Most respondents are long-term residents of Phase 12, Tala—with 84% living there for at least four years—offering deep environmental perspective. Data reveals intense community anxiety regarding local narcotics (3.43 mean) and drug-related violence (3.30 mean). A "Strongly Agree" consensus (3.40 mean) underscores widespread vulnerability. Statistical testing (p = 0.9042; H = 0.2013) showed no significant variance between groups, identifying general insecurity as the top priority (F=50, 10.48). Consequently, the "SAFE PHASE 12" framework was proposed to enhance neighborhood safety through collective action. The findings illustrate a community under significant psychological siege. The high weighted means in the categories of Fear and Anxiety suggest that drug-related crime in Barangay 188 is not merely a legal issue but a public health crisis that restricts the freedom of movement and mental well-being of its citizens. The lack of significant difference in the p-value analysis is particularly telling—it suggests that the "climate of fear" is so pervasive that it transcends individual demographic traits. Furthermore, the 100% frequency in reporting the "reluctance to engage in reporting mechanisms" points to a breakdown in the relationship between the citizenry and the justice system, which is often the greatest hurdle in community-based crime prevention.