EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE OPLAN GALUGAD CONDUCTED BY HILLCREST POLICE SUB-STATION 8 AT BARANGAY 170 CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

The Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to implement initiatives aimed at maintaining peace and order throughout the country. One of these programs is "Oplan Galugad," a targeted anti-crime campaign designed to address illegal activities such as drug trafficking, illegal firearm possession, public drinking, illegal gambling, and the apprehension of wanted individuals. This operation typically involves coordinated raids, intensified patrols, and active community engagement to enhance public safety. In Barangay 170, Caloocan City, the Hillcrest Police Sub-Station 8 recorded a total of 238 apprehensions in 2024 related to these violations. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Oplan Galugad as implemented in the said locality. A descriptive quantitative research design is employed in this study. The sample includes 50 respondents, divided into three groups: 10 police officers, 10 barangay officials and volunteers, and 30 residents of Barangay 170, Caloocan City. Data are collected through a structured survey questionnaire aimed at assessing perceptions of the campaign’s effectiveness in terms of crime reduction, community perception, legal compliance, and operational efficiency. The demographic data show that most respondents are aged 34 to 41 (n=14), single (n=26), male (n=33), and have attained a high school level of education (n=19). Respondents rated the Oplan Galugad operation as “Highly Effective” in terms of crime reduction, community perception, and operational efficiency, while legal compliance was rated as “Effective.” A majority of respondents (n=38) believe that the operation is necessary for addressing crime and security concerns. Furthermore, respondents strongly agreed that enhancing police-community relationships could improve the success of future Oplan Galugad operations, with a weighted mean of 50 supporting this measure. The study concludes that Oplan Galugad, as conducted by Hillcrest Police Sub-Station 8 in Barangay 170, is perceived as effective in reducing crime, improving community perception, and ensuring operational efficiency. However, legal compliance was rated slightly lower, indicating areas for improvement. The findings highlight the importance of continued community involvement and recommend initiatives to strengthen police-community relations as a means of improving the campaign’s long-term effectiveness. These insights serve as a foundation for refining current strategies and enhancing public trust in law enforcement.