ENHANCING BARANGAY SECURITY AGAINST GANG RIOTS; A PROPOSAL

Abstract

Gang-related violence and riots continue to threaten peace and public safety in numerous barangays. These disturbances not only put lives at risk but also instill fear and insecurity within communities. Despite existing preventive measures, many barangays lack a strategic and proactive approach to effectively address gang-related issues. This study proposes the enhancement of barangay-level security through the implementation of targeted interventions, increased community engagement, and improved law enforcement response mechanisms aimed at reducing gang activity and promoting public safety. A mixed-methods research design is employed in this study, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to gather a comprehensive understanding of barangay security. Survey questionnaires are administered to residents, barangay officials, and police personnel to evaluate safety perceptions, frequency of gang-related incidents, and the effectiveness of current security practices. Additionally, in-depth interviews are conducted with selected stakeholders to explore the underlying causes of gang-related disturbances and challenges in maintaining order at the community level. While full data collection is still in progress, preliminary findings highlight common patterns in barangays experiencing gang violence. Gang-related activities appear to be more frequent in highly populated areas characterized by youth unemployment, social disconnection, and limited access to education and recreational programs. These factors contribute to the vulnerability of youth to gang recruitment and increase the likelihood of violent encounters. The initial results emphasize the necessity for a comprehensive and community-centered strategy in addressing gang-related threats. Strengthening barangay security requires not only an increased law enforcement presence but also active participation from the community in crime prevention efforts. Building stronger relationships between residents and authorities, along with integrating technological tools such as surveillance systems and communication networks, can significantly enhance real-time monitoring and response to gang-related incidents. A multi-sectoral approach is recommended to sustain peace and security at the barangay level.