ASSESSMENT OF RECIDIVISM AT BARANGAY BIGNAY, VALENZUELA CITY: BASIS FOR CREATION OF COMMUNITY BASED CRIME PREVENTION STRATEGY

Abstract

This study assesses recidivism at Barangay Bignay, Valenzuela City, as a basis for creating a community‑based crime prevention strategy. It examines the factors driving repeat offending—such as unemployment, lack of social support, and limited rehabilitation programs—and evaluates existing prevention activities in the barangay. By understanding these dynamics, the study aims to inform targeted interventions that reduce reoffending and enhance public safety. This study employs a descriptive survey design to evaluate recidivism and support the development of a community‑based prevention strategy. Purposive sampling is used to select fifty respondents: thirty residents, ten barangay officials, and ten police personnel. Data are collected via a structured questionnaire covering perceptions of repeat offending rates, contributing factors, and the effectiveness of current prevention measures. Survey responses are analyzed using frequency distributions and weighted means to identify predominant themes and areas for strategic focus. The researchers sent a letter to the research adviser to state the intention of the study. After securing the adviser’s assurance and cooperation, they distributed the questionnaires to the respondents to establish rapport. Clear instructions were provided to ensure the respondents could answer the questionnaire accurately. The completed questionnaires were collected, tallied, and analyzed by the researchers. The information gathered was reviewed and carefully validated by the adviser. Based on the analyzed data, the researchers prepared a matrix and graph for presentation. The findings indicated that socioeconomic vulnerabilities and gaps in post‑release support underlie high recidivism levels at Barangay Bignay. Prevention efforts were found to be fragmented and underresourced. As a result, it was recommended that the barangay establish a centralized database to monitor repeat offenders, implement tailored livelihood and skills training programs for former inmates, and partner with rehabilitation centers and non‑governmental organizations to deliver community‑based reintegration services. Community awareness campaigns were also advised to engage residents in crime prevention and foster a supportive environment for at‑risk individuals.