ANALYSIS ON DRUG RELATED OFFENSES INVOLVING MINORS IN BARANGAY 176, BAGONG SILANG, CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

The involvement of minors in drug-related offenses presents a complex and pressing issue with significant social, psychological, and legal consequences for individuals, families, and communities. This study focuses on analyzing the prevalence and contributing factors of such offenses in Barangay 176, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City. It explores the types of drug-related activities committed by minors, examines the root causes—such as poverty, peer pressure, broken family structures, and lack of education—and considers the long-term impact on the youth involved. The goal of this research is to provide a comprehensive understanding that can guide the development of preventive strategies, intervention programs, and informed policymaking to address juvenile involvement in illegal drug activities. This study will utilize a combination of purposive and stratified random sampling to ensure a well-rounded and representative group of respondents. Purposive sampling will be applied to select individuals with direct involvement or expertise in drug-related offenses involving minors, such as law enforcement officers, community leaders, and social workers. In parallel, stratified random sampling will be used to gather responses from residents of Barangay 176, including, when applicable, minors and their families. The study will involve a total of fifty-five (55) respondents: eight (8) members of the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC), five (5) officers from the Philippine National Police (PNP), eight (8) personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and thirty-four (34) parents. The study found that out of the 55 respondents, 16 were aged 51 or older, and 30 were female, representing 63.64% female and 36.36% male. Twenty-one respondents had completed high school, accounting for 38.18% of the group, while 31 respondents, or 56.36%, were married. The respondents evaluated drug-related offenses involving minors in Barangay 176 across three areas: social environment, trauma and abuse, and educational and preventive programs. The primary challenges contributing to minor involvement in drug offenses were identified as family distress, economic hardship, and parental absence. Additionally, 11.96% of minors were considered vulnerable to negative influences. To address these issues, the study recommends implementing community service and leadership programs that foster responsibility and a sense of belonging among minors. The overall program ratings were 2.99 for social environment, 2.80 for trauma and abuse, and 3.20 for educational and preventive initiatives. Partnering with the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) is crucial for safeguarding minors through the provision of seminars, programs, and awareness sessions that address the factors contributing to their involvement in drug-related offenses. Furthermore, the Barangay should conduct regular seminars for parents and ensure timely responses to assistance requests to effectively protect and support the well-being of minors.