THE LEVEL OF EFFECTIVENESS OF THE BARANGAY OFFICIALS IN MAINTAINING A DRUG FREE ENVIRONMENT IN BARANGAY SAN JOSE, RODRIGUEZ, RIZAL

Abstract

Maintaining a community free from drugs entails encouraging education, prevention, and support services to deter substance abuse and addiction. Drugs represent a significant problem and have consistently been a considerable aspect of our society, as well as a type of chemical or substance that can alter the functioning of our body. The aim of the study is to seek information concerning the effectiveness of barangay officials in sustaining a drug-free environment in Barangay San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal. This research outlines the methodology and procedural design utilized by the researchers for data collection. In this study, we carry out research involving 400 respondents, which is divided into two groups: 2 participants from the Barangay officials in Barangay San Jose and 398 respondents from the barangay's residents. The study employed a purposive sampling method to facilitate participant selection and enhance data gathering by reaching a specific subset of individuals. To analyze the collected data, the researcher applied Slovin's Formula to ascertain the necessary sample size to achieve a specified confidence interval; the weighted mean is calculated as the total of the frequency divided by the number of cases, while frequency and percentage are used to display the quantity and percentage of observations belonging to each category of the interview, with the respondents preparing a list of categories followed by frequency, rating scale, and ranking. The research indicated that the participants "Strongly Agree" that structured events and training sessions to involve residents in different sports promote physical fitness, teamwork, and a sense of community. The analysts discovered that the Barangay officials primarily faced challenges in sustaining a drug-free environment due to insufficient funding for barangay programs such as a rehabilitation center. This study further suggests that barangay officials should propose budgeting and resources for the rehabilitation center program. Barangay officials need to focus on educational and awareness initiatives, create partnerships with law enforcement agencies, and execute evidence-based interventions suited to the requirements of their communities. Barangay officials ought to maintain communication with their residents, particularly with the youth who are in trouble and facing challenges in decision-making. Offering correct information regarding the dangers and repercussions of illegal substance use.