CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED IN DRUG PREVENTION CAMPAIGN AND ADVOCACY OF PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE IN NOVALICHES QUEZON CITY

Abstract

This study aims to determine the challenges encountered in the drug prevention campaign and advocacy of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Novaliches, Quezon City. The major and minor challenges faced by police officers negatively impact their job, particularly in implementing drug prevention programs and advocacy efforts. The study employed a descriptive research design using a purposive sampling technique. A total of 30 police officers who directly experienced challenges in the campaign and 30 residents affected by these challenges participated in the study. A survey questionnaire served as the primary data collection instrument. The gathered data were analyzed using mean, frequency, percentage, and weighted mean to interpret the findings effectively. The findings reveal that the majority of respondents strongly agreed on the effectiveness of the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) program. This initiative has had a positive impact on both police officers and residents, contributing to a healthier community through drug education, seminars, advocacy efforts, and collaboration with local governments. However, challenges remain, including logistical issues (e.g., non-functional vehicles for drug operations) and financial constraints (e.g., insufficient budget for intelligence gathering and campaign activities). To address these problems, the study suggests enhancing community engagement, increasing awareness through educational programs, utilizing mass media campaigns, and strengthening coordination with local government units to prevent drug abuse. The study highlights the difficulties faced by police officers in implementing drug prevention campaigns in Novaliches, Quezon City. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions, such as policy improvements and community-based interventions, to support law enforcement efforts and enhance the effectiveness of drug prevention initiatives.