EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTI-FENCING LAW IN REDUCING ILLICIT TRADE AT BARANGAY PASONG PUTIK, QUEZON CITY

Abstract

In Barangay Pasong Putik, Quezon City, the ongoing circulation of stolen goods through discreet online and offline channels poses a threat to public safety and undermines the enforcement of the Anti-Fencing Law (Presidential Decree No. 1612). Although this law aims to deter the sale and purchase of stolen property, it faces several enforcement challenges, including limited public awareness, weak penalties, and inconsistent monitoring. This study aims to fill the gap in understanding localized anti-fencing measures by evaluating the law's effectiveness through the lens of Routine Activity Theory (Cohen & Felson, 1979), which examines the dynamics between motivated offenders, suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians. The study used a descriptive quantitative research design and employed purposive sampling to survey 50 respondents, which included community residents, barangay officials, and police personnel. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that contained both close-ended and open-ended questions. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and ranking were utilized to analyze responses related to demographics, awareness, procedural experiences, and assessments of law enforcement. The results revealed that the majority of respondents, aged 18 to 23 and long-term residents, strongly agreed on the necessity of clearance permits and acknowledged the visibility of enforcement efforts. However, several gaps persist: inadequate sanctions, fear of retaliation, and difficulties in identifying stolen goods were identified as significant obstacles. The most frequently suggested improvement was the imposition of stricter penalties (15.65%), followed by the need for increased awareness programs and more streamlined legal proceedings. The findings suggest that the Anti-Fencing Law is effective when it is combined with community engagement and clear procedures. However, enforcement is still hampered by legal and social limitations. The study highlights the need for stronger penalties, ongoing education campaigns, and specialized legal mechanisms. Since the focus was localized, future research should expand to include multiple barangays and analyze comparative crime data to gain a better understanding of the law's regional impact and the potential for enhancing policies.