CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY RESIDENTS OF BARANGAY 177 MALIGAYA CALOOCAN CITY REGARDING SAFETY AND SECURITY

Abstract

This study examines challenges related to safety and security encountered by residents of Barangay 177, Maligaya, Caloocan City. It investigates common community concerns including unsafe streets, rough roads, and illegal activities, and evaluates how local organization and responsibility contribute to overall peace and order. This study highlights the roles of resident cooperation and local government policies in fostering a secure environment. This study employs a quantitative descriptive design with purposive sampling. Fifty participants were selected, comprising fifteen barangay personnel and thirty‑five residents of Barangay 177, Maligaya. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire that assessed perceptions of crime incidence, environmental hazards, and community preparedness. Responses were analyzed using frequency counts and percentage distributions. The majority of respondents were male and aged between 45 and 50 years. Two primary safety concerns emerged: regular incidents of theft and petty crime that disrupted community peace, and prevalent drug‑related activities in certain areas that elevated security risks. These findings underscored the urgent need for interventions to address both property offenses and substance‑related threats. The study demonstrated that enhancing community safety requires comprehensive and efficient security mechanisms tailored to local needs. Proposed measures included creating job opportunities and community programs to address root causes of crime and conducting awareness campaigns in schools and neighborhoods to educate residents on the dangers of drug use and trafficking. The strategic deployment of barangay security patrols in key areas, ongoing training of personnel, and improved communication systems were introduced to strengthen preparedness and ensure prompt, coordinated responses to emergencies.