CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS IN COMMITTING PETTY CRIMES IN BARANGAY NOVALICHES PROPER, QUEZON CITY: AN ASSESSMENT

Abstract

Petty crime refers to minor infractions such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, theft of unattended property, and salisi. Although often perceived as trivial, these offenses can profoundly affect victims and community well‑being. This study analyzes the contributory factors that lead individuals to commit petty crimes in Barangay Novaliches Proper, Quezon City. It examines socioeconomic, psychological, environmental, and educational influences and proposes prevention strategies aligned with sustainable community development. This study uses a descriptive survey design. Fifty respondents are purposively sampled: forty community residents and ten barangay officials (including the punong barangay, kagawad, and barangay tanod) of Barangay Novaliches Proper, Quezon City. A structured questionnaire is constructed based on a literature review and validated by subject‑matter experts. The instrument is administered face‑to‑face and retrieved for analysis. Collected data are processed using frequency and percentage distributions and weighted mean analyses. Most respondents were male (54%, n = 27). Respondents aged 18 to 25 comprised 46% (n = 23). Single civil status accounted for 58% (n = 29). Long‑term residents (over 14 years) comprised 56% (n = 28). Assessment of contributory factors indicated that socio‑economic and psychological factors were interpreted as “Agree,” while environmental and educational factors were interpreted as “Strongly Agree.” The most frequently cited problem was lack of awareness or prevention programs. Installation of functional surveillance cameras (CCTV) was the most commonly proposed solution. Findings highlighted that lack of prevention programs significantly contributed to petty crime in Barangay Novaliches Proper. As a result, it was recommended that community stakeholders enhance educational and awareness campaigns, install CCTV surveillance in strategic locations, and foster collaboration among barangay officials, police officers, and parents. The study also underscored the need to address underlying issues such as poverty, unemployment, educational deficits, and social inequality to reduce opportunities for petty crime.