EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF PATROLLING TO PREVENT THEFT INCIDENTS IN BARANGAY PAYATAS A QUEZON CITY

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of patrolling in preventing theft incidents in Barangay Payatas A, Quezon City. It explores various elements of the research including the background of the study, related literature and studies, theoretical and conceptual frameworks, the statement of the problem, assumptions, scope and delimitations, significance of the study, and definition of terms. The research aims to assess whether the existing patrolling strategies are adequate in mitigating theft cases and to identify possible areas for improvement in local crime prevention. The study employs a descriptive research design with purposive sampling, targeting fifty (50) respondents composed of ten (10) barangay officials, ten (10) police officers, and thirty (30) residents. The data were gathered to answer four key questions: the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of age, sex, and civil status; their assessment of the patrolling system’s effectiveness focusing on technology integration, frequency and duration, and intelligence-led patrol strategies; the problems encountered in the current patrol operations; and proposed measures to enhance patrol effectiveness. Surveys and interviews served as the primary instruments for data collection. After obtaining official permission from Barangay Payatas and Police Station 13, the researchers conducted the data gathering process. Results revealed that the patrolling strategies were perceived as “Very Effective” across all indicators. Under technology integration, the highest-rated item was the patrol team’s use of advanced communication devices such as two-way radios, with a weighted mean of 3.64. In terms of patrolling frequency and duration, the top-rated indicator was the maintenance of police visibility during peak theft hours (e.g., nighttime), with a mean of 3.54. For intelligence-led patrolling, the highest score was given to the use of intelligence strategies in reducing theft incidents, with a weighted mean of 3.62. The findings emphasize the importance of active community involvement and continuous collaboration between residents, barangay officials, and law enforcement agencies in preventing theft. Residents are encouraged to promptly report suspicious activities and support crime prevention initiatives. Barangay officials should routinely assess patrol operations and work closely with law enforcement to enhance strategies. Police officers are recommended to conduct regular patrols and undergo training to improve performance. Lawmakers are urged to allocate resources for barangay tanod training, equipment, and the installation of surveillance systems. Future researchers are advised to examine the effectiveness of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and crime mapping to further improve patrolling efficiency.