1

REVISED THESIS

PUBLIC AWARENESS OF COMMUNITY POLICING INITIATIVES OF THE SANTIAGO CITY POLICE

Revised in accordance with the University Research Format

May 2025

PUBLIC AWARENESS OF COMMUNITY POLICING INITIATIVES OF THE

SANTIAGO CITY POLICE FOR IMPROVING INFORMATION AND PROMOTION
OF THE PROGRAM

A
Thesis Proposal
Presented to the
Faculty of College of Criminal Justice Education
University of La Salette, Inc.
Santiago City, Philippines

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the degree
Bachelor of Science in Criminology
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Biag, Carlos Miguel B.

Penuela, Juztin Angelo V
Ventura, Brixlee S.
Valdez, Maria Rose M.
Ventura, Earnest John C.

S.Y. 2024-2025

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

A design project of this nature is inherently a collaborative effort, drawing upon the diverse contributions
of numerous individuals. Although words may inadequately convey the significance of each person's role,
we wish to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to all those who assisted us in completing
this research endeavor.
First and foremost, praises and thanks to the God, the Almighty, for His showers of blessings throughout
our research work.
We would like to express our deep and sincere gratitude to our research supervisor, Dr. Gilda C. Octavo,
Professor and Dean of College of Criminal Justice Education, for giving us the opportunity to do the
research and providing invaluable guidance throughout this research. Her dynamism, vision, sincerity, and
motivation deeply inspired us.
To the respondents who share their time and effort in answering questionnaire without any hesitation and
complaint.
Finally, the researcher wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to our parents and family for their unwavering
support, both financial and emotional, throughout our academic journey. Their patience and understanding
during challenging times were especially invaluable and deeply appreciated.
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Dedication

This research is dedicated to the Santiago City Police, whose dedication to

improving public safety through community policing initiatives has been an inspiration. To
the officers who work tirelessly to build stronger connections with the community, this
work is a reflection of your efforts and commitment to fostering a safer, more informed
society. I also dedicate this to the people of Santiago City, who continue to support these
programs and believe in the power of collaboration between law enforcement and the
community. Lastly, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my family and friends for their
unwavering encouragement and support throughout this journey.
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Abstract

This study examines the level of public awareness regarding the community policing
initiatives implemented by the Santiago City Police. Community policing aims to foster
stronger relationships between law enforcement and citizens, promoting safety, trust, and
collaboration in solving local issues. However, the effectiveness of such programs heavily
relies on public knowledge and participation. Through surveys and interviews with local
residents and police officers, this research seeks to assess current awareness levels, identify
challenges in communication, and evaluate the methods used to promote these initiatives.
The findings suggest that while the program has the potential to greatly improve public
safety and police-community relations, gaps in information dissemination hinder its
success. Recommendations include enhancing promotional strategies through social media,
community events, and partnerships with local organizations to increase public
engagement and support for the program.
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INTRODUCTION

Public awareness of community policing initiatives is crucial for creating safer and
more cohesive communities. Community policing encourages collaboration between law
enforcement and local residents, shifting the focus from reactive measures to proactive
problem-solving. This approach is based on partnership, problem-solving, and proactive
engagement. It aims to involve citizens in identifying and resolving community issues
while building trust between police and the community.

Increasing public awareness about these initiatives helps the community understand
the core values and objectives of community policing. It informs individuals about the
benefits of the program, such as increased patrol visibility and neighborhood-based police
assignments. When people are aware of these efforts, they are more likely to participate in
safety initiatives and support police activities. This involvement can strengthen crime
prevention efforts and foster a sense of ownership in maintaining community safety.

Awareness also plays a vital role in building trust between law enforcement and the
public. When citizens understand how community policing works and how they can
contribute to crime prevention, they are more likely to engage with police officers. This
collaboration leads to stronger relationships and encourages open communication,
enhancing the effectiveness of policing. As trust grows, communities become more
unified, and individuals feel empowered to take action in improving their neighborhoods.
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Effective public awareness strategies include outreach efforts like media

campaigns, community meetings, educational workshops, and social media engagement.
These initiatives provide clear communication channels for the public to stay informed and
offer feedback. In conclusion, increasing public awareness of community policing
strengthens collaboration, builds trust, and promotes a shared responsibility for public
safety, leading to safer and more resilient communities.

Background of the Study

Community policing has emerged as a critical strategy in contemporary law

enforcement, designed to cultivate a collaborative relationship between police agencies
and the communities they serve. This approach prioritizes proactive measures, actively
involving citizens in the identification and resolution of public safety concerns, while
also fostering trust through open communication and partnership. The success of
community policing is largely contingent upon the level of awareness and
understanding that community members possess regarding its principles and practices.
Community policing has emerged as a critical approach to enhancing public safety and
fostering trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. It is
defined as a philosophy that promotes organizational strategies supporting the
systematic use of partnerships and problem-solving techniques, aiming to proactively
address the root causes of crime and social disorder (Greene, 2000).

The concept of community policing originated in the United States during the
1970s in response to rising crime rates and a perceived disconnect between police
forces and the communities they serve. This model emphasizes the importance of
community involvement in policing processes and seeks to build collaborative
relationships between police and community members (Slogan, 2006). Public trust in
law enforcement is essential for effective policing. Research indicates that communities
with higher levels of trust in the police are more likely to cooperate with law
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enforcement efforts, report crimes, and engage in preventive measures (Tyler, 2004).
Conversely, a lack of trust can lead to reluctance in cooperation, thereby undermining
the overall efficacy of policing strategies (Weitzer & Touch, 2006).

Awareness of community policing initiatives is vital for fostering public trust.

Studies have demonstrated that when community members are informed about the roles
and responsibilities of police within the framework of community policing, they are
more inclined to engage positively with law enforcement (Cao et al., 1996).
Additionally, effective communication and outreach programs can enhance public
understanding and perception of police activities, facilitating a more cooperative
environment (Mazerolle et al., 2013). In the Philippines, awareness of community
policing varies significantly, with many citizens lacking knowledge about its principles
and benefits, particularly in rural areas. Despite ongoing outreach efforts by police
agencies, the understanding of community policing remains limited (Dela Cruz, 2021).
Urban communities may experience better engagement due to localized initiatives, yet
overall public trust in law enforcement is undermined by issues such as corruption and
inadequate responses to community concerns (Bautista, 2020). Research indicates that
increasing awareness of community policing can enhance public trust, as a clearer
understanding of its collaborative nature encourages citizens to view law enforcement
as allies rather than adversaries (Gonzales, 2022). To address these awareness gaps, it is
essential for law enforcement agencies to adopt comprehensive communication
strategies, provide training for police personnel, and promote active community
participation in policing initiatives (Alvarez, 2023).

Public awareness of community policing initiatives in Santiago City, Philippines,

aims to foster stronger relationships between the police force and local communities.
This approach promotes collaboration, trust, and shared responsibility for safety and
security. Santiago City, located in the province of Isabela, has seen the integration of
various strategies to engage the public in maintaining peace, such as organizing public
meetings, social media campaigns, and outreach programs. These initiatives inform
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citizens about their roles in crime prevention, encourage their active participation in
neighborhood watch programs, and address public concerns about safety. Ultimately,
the goal is to create a safer and more cohesive environment through the cooperation of
both law enforcement and the public.

Community policing initiatives in Santiago City, Philippines, focus on increasing

public awareness and participation to enhance community safety and crime prevention.
By strengthening the relationship between local police and the community, these
programs aim to create an environment where citizens and officers work together to
address crime and disorder. Through various activities such as community dialogues,
workshops, and partnerships with local organizations, the initiative seeks to empower
residents with knowledge about their rights, responsibilities, and the role they play in
maintaining peace. Public awareness campaigns, especially using local media and
social platforms, are key in reaching out to a wider audience, ensuring that the
community understands the objectives of community policing. These efforts also help
build trust in law enforcement by showing a commitment to transparency,
accountability, and responsiveness to community concerns. In doing so, the police
force in Santiago City aims to create a safer and more connected community where
collaboration is essential for preventing crime and improving the quality of life for
everyone.

The present study seeks to investigate the awareness of community policing

initiatives across various communities and evaluate its impact on public trust in law
enforcement. By analyzing the relationship between awareness and trust, this research
aims to provide valuable insights that could guide the formulation of more effective
community policing strategies, ultimately contributing to the establishment of safer and
more cohesive communities.

Research Question

The research aims to assess public awareness of Santiago City police's community
policing initiatives, exploring communication effectiveness, community involvement, and
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the impact on safety. It also seeks to identify knowledge gaps and suggest ways to improve
police-community engagement.

1. What is the demographic profile of the respondent in terms of age, sex,

barangay residence, occupation, educational attainment, and religion?
2. What is the level of awareness on the community policing initiatives of the
respondents in terms of community meetings, youth involvement, neighborhood
watch programs, and social media use for crime prevention?
3. Is there a difference in the level of awareness of the respondents on the
community policing initiatives when grouped according to their profile?
4. What strategies can be proposed to improve the promotion and information
drive of community policing initiatives?

Significance of the Study

The significance of the study on public awareness of community policing initiatives

lies in its potential to enhance public safety by fostering greater collaboration between the
police and the community. It highlights the importance of public knowledge in building
trust and improving relationships, leading to a more effective and transparent approach to

law enforcement. Increased awareness encourages community involvement, which can

result in reduced crime rates and a stronger sense of security within the community.

To the Community Members, lies in empowering residents to actively participate

in public safety by fostering stronger collaboration with law enforcement. It enhances trust,
encourages community involvement in crime prevention, and promotes transparency and
accountability, resulting in a safer, more cohesive, and engaged community.

To the Law Enforcers, it enhances policing effectiveness by fostering community

support, trust, and cooperation. It helps law enforcement build stronger relationships with
the public, leading to more efficient crime prevention and better communication of
initiatives. Ultimately, this improves transparency and accountability in policing.
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To the Future Researchers, it provides a foundation for exploring the effectiveness of

community policing and its relationship with public awareness. It serves as a reference for
evaluating community involvement in crime prevention and can guide future research on
improving police-community partnerships and communication strategies.

To the Barangay Officials, it helps strengthen collaboration with law enforcement

and the community. It provides insights for promoting community policing initiatives,
improving trust, communication, and joint efforts to maintain peace and order at the local
level.

To the Policy Makers, it offers insights into public perceptions of community

policing initiatives, helping them identify gaps and improve communication. It guides the
development of more effective policies that enhance community engagement, strengthen
police-community relations, and create more responsive and sustainable public safety
strategies.

Theoretical Framework

Community policing is centered on cultivating trust and collaboration between law

enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Through proactive engagement with
residence of Santiago City, Philippines to address local concerns, law enforcement officers
strengthen relationships, enhance public trust, and improve public safety by fostering
cooperation and facilitating open lines of communication.

Community policing theory, first introduced by Herman Goldstein (1979),

emphasizes a proactive and problem-solving approach to policing, in contrast to the
traditional, reactive model. Goldstein advocated for police to work closely with community
members to identify and address underlying problems, not just respond to incidents of
crime. This approach aims to build partnerships with the public and foster cooperation,
which is believed to improve public trust in the police.

Herman Goldstein also developed Problem-Oriented Policing (POP), a specific

application of community policing that focuses on identifying and solving the underlying
problems that contribute to crime and disorder. This theory advocates for police to work
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closely with the community to identify recurring problems, analyze their causes, and
develop long-term solutions.

According to Tom R. Tyler and Allan Lind(1992), emphasizes the fairness of the processes
used by authorities when interacting with the public. Tyler’s research shows that people are
more likely to trust and cooperate with the police when they perceive the processes to be
fair, even if the outcomes are not in their favor. Key elements include respect, voice,
neutrality, and trustworthiness in police actions.

Conceptual framework

The study’s conceptual framework outlines three main components: input, process,
and output. The input includes the essential information about the target audience or
respondents.

The significance of this framework lies in its ability to provide a structured

approach to understanding and analyzing the study. By dividing the research process into
three distinct components input, process, and output it helps in organizing and guiding the
flow of information and actions throughout the study.

Input Process Output

Profile of the 1. Data collection Assessed level of

respondents of respondent’s awareness on community
according to : profiles policing towards the
2. Administering improvement of public
A. Name
questionnaires trust in Santiago city
B. Age
3. Organization of
C. Occupation
responses

FEEDBACK
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Figure 1. Paradigm of the Study

Literature review

A literature review on awareness of community policing towards the improvement of

public trust explores the relationship between community policing initiatives and their
impact on public trust in law enforcement agencies. Community policing is a strategy that
emphasizes building strong relationships between police officers and the communities they
serve, aiming to enhance cooperation, understanding, and trust.

Public participation is at the core of community policing initiatives. Brown (1989)

highlights that community policing relies heavily on building partnerships between the
police and the public to identify and solve local problems. However, participation can only
be effective if the community is aware of the initiatives and understands the role they play
in maintaining security. Community policing thrives when residents are aware and feel
empowered to collaborate with police officers to address neighborhood concerns.

Cordner (2014) emphasizes that without a solid level of public awareness,

community policing programs may fail to gain the active support needed for success. His
study showed that many well-designed community policing programs failed because local
communities were either unaware of the initiatives or did not fully understand the benefits
of engaging with law enforcement. Therefore, police departments must prioritize raising
awareness and promoting transparency about their activities.

Awareness of community policing initiatives plays a crucial role in crime

prevention. Gill, Weisburd, Telep, Vitter, and Bennett (2014) conducted a meta-analysis of
community policing programs and found that higher levels of public awareness and
involvement are associated with lower crime rates. In areas where the public is well-
informed about the police's efforts and engaged in community problem-solving, there is a
noticeable reduction in crime, particularly in urban neighborhoods.

Moreover, Reisig and Parks (2000) assert that public awareness is essential for
building effective crime prevention strategies. Their study found that communities with
higher awareness levels of policing efforts had stronger cooperation with law enforcement,
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leading to quicker responses to crime and fewer occurrences of criminal activity. This
highlights the importance of fostering public understanding and participation as part of a
comprehensive crime prevention strategy.

Perceived police legitimacy is a crucial outcome of public awareness of community

policing efforts. Sunshine and Tyler (2003) argue that when the public is informed about
community policing and sees the police engaging with them in a fair and transparent
manner, it leads to increased perceptions of police legitimacy. This perception is important
because when citizens view the police as legitimate, they are more likely to obey the law
and cooperate with police efforts.

In a related study, Hawdon (2008) found that public awareness of community

policing programs enhances the perception of fairness and legitimacy, which improves
overall relations between police and the community. His research suggests that well-
informed citizens are more likely to view police officers as trusted partners in ensuring
community safety, rather than as outsiders imposing control. This reinforces the
importance of ongoing efforts to keep the public educated about policing activities.

Despite the clear benefits of public awareness in community policing, several

barriers exist that can hinder public knowledge and participation. Skogan and Hartnett

(1997) identify communication gaps between police departments and communities as a

significant barrier to awareness. They argue that police departments often fail to effectively
disseminate information about their programs to the public, especially in marginalized and
low-income communities. These gaps in communication lead to low levels of awareness,
which reduces the overall effectiveness of community policing efforts.

Similarly, Rosenbaum (1994) found that a lack of police visibility and engagement
in certain neighborhoods can result in limited public knowledge of community policing
initiatives. His study revealed that many residents were unaware of police efforts in their
communities because officers were not actively involved in day-to-day neighborhood life.
This emphasizes the need for police to be consistently present and engaged in the
communities they serve to build awareness and trust.
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To address the barriers to public awareness, various strategies have been

recommended in the literature. Thacher (2001) suggests that police departments should
implement targeted outreach campaigns to increase awareness of community policing
initiatives. This includes using social media platforms, community meetings, and
neighborhood associations to communicate with the public about ongoing efforts and how
they can get involved.

Additionally, Mazerolle, Bennett, Davis, Sargeant, and Manning (2013) propose that
regular feedback and updates to the public about the outcomes of community policing
programs can help sustain awareness and engagement. Their research shows that when the
community is kept informed about the results of their efforts—such as reductions in crime
or improvements in neighborhood safety—residents are more likely to continue
participating in community policing initiatives.

Numerous studies have examined the outcomes of community policing on public

trust. Weisburd and Eck (2004) argue that the success of community policing programs can
be measured by assessing indicators such as community satisfaction, reduction in crime,
and improvements in public attitudes toward the police. Their research suggests that well-
executed community policing programs result in positive changes in public trust,
particularly in communities that experience high levels of crime or social unrest.

In a similar vein, Skogan (2006) conducted a study evaluating community policing

programs in several U.S. cities and found that public trust in the police increased in areas
where community policing had been implemented effectively. However, the study also
noted that trust improvements were more pronounced in areas where community policing
was accompanied by broader social reforms, such as economic development and
improvements in educational opportunities.

fundamental objective of community policing is the improvement of public trust in law

enforcement. Trust in the police is essential for effective policing, as it encourages
community cooperation, increases compliance with the law, and fosters a sense of safety.
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Tyler (2004) argues that police legitimacy, which is crucial for effective law
enforcement, is built on citizens’ perceptions of fairness, transparency, and accountability
in police practices.

Ren (2016) explores the impact of community policing on public trust and finds
that, when implemented successfully, community policing initiatives can significantly
enhance citizens' trust in law enforcement. Ren’s study suggests that communities with
higher levels of engagement with police officers, such as through neighborhood watch
programs, regular communication, and collaborative problem-solving, tend to exhibit
greater trust in the police. On the other hand, the absence of community involvement or
negative experiences with police can undermine trust, even if community policing
programs are in place.

The relationship between procedural justice and public trust is emphasized in

Tyler’s (2004) work, where he demonstrates that fair and respectful treatment by police
officers increases the likelihood that the public will trust the police. In the context of
community policing, this means that when police officers engage with citizens in an open,
transparent, and respectful manner, the level of public trust is more likely to improve.

The success of community policing is significantly influenced by how aware and

informed the public is about the initiative. Rosenbaum (1994) suggests that effective
communication between law enforcement agencies and the public is critical in fostering a
positive perception of community policing. Public awareness campaigns, including
educational outreach, media engagement, and community meetings, are essential for
building understanding and support for community policing strategies.

Studies show that when the public is well-informed about the goals and activities of
community policing, they are more likely to trust the police and cooperate with them.
Mastrofski (2006) highlights that outreach programs that educate the community about
how community policing works and how they can contribute to local safety can improve
citizens' perceptions of police effectiveness. Similarly, Rosenbaum (1994) emphasizes that
without proper awareness, community policing efforts may fail to achieve their intended
outcomes.
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In Kochel’s (2011) work, the author argues that lack of awareness can result in
skepticism about the legitimacy of community policing efforts, particularly in communities
with a history of strained relations with law enforcement. If the public is unaware of the
goals and benefits of community policing, they may not perceive it as an effective means
of improving public safety, thereby hindering the development of trust.

Community policing is grounded in the idea that police officers and community
members should work together to identify and address public safety issues. According to
Trojanowicz and Bucqueroux (1990), community policing represents a shift from
traditional reactive policing to a proactive approach that involves building strong
relationships with citizens, improving communication, and fostering mutual respect. This
approach seeks to create a more engaged and responsive police force, capable of solving
problems in partnership with the community.

In their studies, Wilson and Kelling (1982) argue that community policing is a
response to the shortcomings of traditional policing methods, which tend to focus on crime
control rather than community engagement. Community policing aims to break down the
barriers between the police and the public, encouraging a more cooperative approach to
law enforcement. The effectiveness of this approach, however, is heavily dependent on the
public's awareness of its objectives and the extent to which they believe in its legitimacy.

Community policing in the Philippines, known locally as Barangay-Based Policing,

has been developed in response to the need for closer collaboration between the police and
the public to address local crime and security concerns. Gonzales (2001) points out that the
success of community policing in the Philippines heavily relies on public awareness and
participation. This approach emphasizes crime prevention through community engagement,
but its effectiveness is often tied to how well the public is informed about these initiatives.

According to Anderson and Mangoraya (2013), community policing in the

Philippines is often implemented through the collaboration between the Philippine
National Police (PNP) and local government units, particularly barangay officials.
However, public awareness of these initiatives varies significantly across different regions
and barangays, with some communities being more informed and engaged than others. The
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study highlights the importance of educating the public about the roles they play in
community safety to enhance the impact of community policing programs.

Raising public awareness of community policing initiatives is essential for crime

prevention in the Philippines. Cabrera and Dizon (2016) explored the impact of awareness
campaigns by the PNP on crime rates in urban areas. Their findings suggest that when the
public is well-informed about community policing efforts, there is a greater likelihood of
community members cooperating with law enforcement in crime prevention activities,
such as reporting suspicious behavior or participating in neighborhood watch programs.

In rural areas, Balisacan (2015) found that public awareness of community policing
initiatives is often lower due to limited access to information. His research suggests that in
many rural barangays people are unaware of their local police's crime prevention efforts,
resulting in weaker collaboration between the community and the police. This study
underscores the need for more targeted public education campaigns, particularly in under-
served areas.

Public trust is closely linked to awareness of community policing efforts in the

Philippines. De Guzman and Sarmiento (2017) argue that public trust in the police is
strengthened when citizens are aware of the initiatives being implemented to ensure their
safety. Their study found that in communities where police officers regularly
communicated their efforts to the public, trust in law enforcement was significantly higher.
This trust is crucial because it leads to more cooperative relationships between the police
and the community, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of crime prevention efforts.

Similarly, Yap (2019) emphasizes that public trust is particularly important in areas
with high crime rates, such as Metro Manila. Yap’s study found that communities with a
high level of awareness about the Philippine National Police’s community policing efforts
exhibited greater trust in law enforcement, and as a result, were more likely to assist police
officers in maintaining peace and order.

One of the major challenges in raising public awareness of community policing in

the Philippines is the lack of consistent communication between law enforcement and the
community. Flores and Mendoza (2014) note that while the PNP has made strides in
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implementing community policing strategies, there is still a significant gap in reaching

marginalized and remote areas. Many communities remain unaware of the PNP’s initiatives
due to poor infrastructure, limited access to communication tools, and a lack of public
outreach.

Furthermore, Tolentino (2016) identifies that the limited training and resources
available to the PNP in terms of public engagement and communication also hinder the
success of these initiatives. Tolentino’s research reveals that while police officers are
trained in law enforcement, they are often not equipped with the necessary skills to
effectively communicate with the public, particularly in building awareness of community
policing programs.

Several studies have recommended strategies to improve public awareness of

community policing initiatives in the Philippines. Espina (2018) suggests that police
departments should collaborate more closely with local government units and non-
governmental organizations (NGOs) to reach a broader audience. Espina’s research shows
that when community policing programs are promoted through barangay meetings, local
media, and social media platforms, public awareness increases, leading to higher levels of
community participation.

Technology has also become an important tool in raising public awareness of

community policing initiatives in the Philippines. Manalili (2021) notes that the rise of
social media has provided new opportunities for the PNP to engage with the public,
particularly younger generations who are more active online. Manalili’s study found that
social media platforms, such as Facebook, are increasingly being used by local police units
to inform citizens about crime prevention efforts, upcoming community events, and public
safety tips.

Cruz (2020) highlights that the use of mobile technology, particularly text
messaging, has also been successful in raising awareness about community policing in
rural areas. Cruz’s study found that sending SMS alerts to residents about community
policing initiatives helped bridge the information gap in remote areas where internet access
 19

is limited. This suggests that mobile technology can be a valuable tool for improving
public awareness of community policing initiatives across the Philippines.

Sorsogon Province Study (2017-2018): A key study in Sorsogon focused on

increasing trust and communication between citizens and police through the "One
Sorsogon" program. This initiative encouraged positive interactions and the use of SMS tip
hotlines for citizens to report problems. Researchers found that the program led to greater
trust in the police, better community cooperation, and a reduction in perceived crime

Bangsamoro Region (2017): The British Council has been involved in promoting
community policing in the conflict-affected Bangsamoro region of Mindanao. This project
aimed to build a culture of community-driven policing by educating citizens about its
benefits and fostering cooperation between the police and local communities. The project
concluded with the development of a community policing blueprint, designed to improve
security and social cohesion.

Community Policing in Mindanao: Additionally, another British Council initiative

worked across Mindanao’s provinces to introduce and train communities on the principles
of community policing. This included engagement with local stakeholders, improving
policing practices, and ensuring greater citizen participation.

These initiatives underscore the importance of community involvement in policing

and the potential for such programs to foster trust, improve police-community relations,
and reduce crime. While the results of these interventions vary, they demonstrate that
informed community policing practices can contribute to building public trust in law
enforcement.

METHODOLOGY

The research methodology presents the methods that the researcher will use to gather
an information about Awareness on community policing towards the improvement of
public trust in Santiago city

Research design
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The study will use a quantitative descriptive research design to assess the public's
awareness of community policing initiatives by the Santiago City Police and how this
awareness impacts public trust and perceptions of police effectiveness. A random sample
of Santiago City residents from different demographic backgrounds will be selected to
participate in the research.

Data will be collected using a structured survey questionnaire, which will gather
information on participants' demographic profiles, their level of awareness regarding
community policing initiatives, their trust in the police, and their perceptions of police
effectiveness. The survey will be distributed both online and in-person to ensure a wide
reach.

The data collected will be analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize

awareness levels and inferential statistics (such as t-tests or ANOVA) to explore whether
differences in public trust exist based on varying levels of awareness. Correlation analysis
will also be used to examine whether increased awareness is associated with greater trust
and perceived effectiveness of the police.

Site and Participants

The study will be conducted across multiple locations within Santiago City to
ensure a comprehensive and diverse collection of data. Specifically, it will take place at
four major police stations: Police Station 1, Police Station 2, Police Station 3, and Police
Station 4. In addition to these police stations, the research will extend to various barangays
within Santiago City, including but not limited to Centro East, Centro West, Calao East,
Batal, Buenavista, Dubinan East, Dubinan West, Rosario, and Victory Norte. The inclusion
of these barangays is intended to ensure a broad representation of the population, allowing
the researchers to gather data from participants residing in different areas of the city,
thereby providing a more accurate and reliable reflection of public awareness across
diverse communities.

The selection of multiple barangays is a strategic decision to capture varying levels

of engagement and awareness among residents in relation to community policing
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initiatives. The aim is to ensure that the study reflects the experiences and perceptions of a
wide range of individuals, from various socioeconomic and demographic backgrounds,
across different geographical locations within Santiago City. This approach increases the
study's capacity to identify trends, disparities, and patterns in public awareness that may
exist among different sectors of the population.

Furthermore, the research is being conducted by the researchers under the formal
guidance and supervision of their professor, ensuring that the study adheres to academic
standards and follows appropriate research methodologies. The professor’s oversight will
help to guarantee the reliability, validity, and ethical integrity of the research process,
including data collection, analysis, and reporting. Through this carefully structured and
supervised research process, the study aims to provide meaningful insights into public
awareness of community policing initiatives in Santiago City.

Population, Sample Size, and Sampling Method

Population

The target population for this study comprises the residents of five barangays in Santiago
City, with a total population of 36,599. The population data for each barangay are as
follows:

 Batal: 9,009 residents

 Buenavista: 4,525 residents
 Dubinan East: 2,304 residents
 Dubinan West: 3,188 residents
 Rosario: 12,399 residents

Sample Size

The sample size was determined using Slovin's formula to ensure that the sample is
representative of the entire population. Slovin's formula is expressed as:
 22

Where:

 N = total population
 e = margin of error (0.05 or 5%)
 n = required sample size

For this study, with a population of 36,599 and a margin of error of 5%, the total sample
size required was calculated to be 395 respondents.

The sample size for each barangay is as follows:

BARANGAY POPULATION SAMPLE SIZE (n)

Batal 9,009 residents 383
Buenavista 4,525 residents 368
Dubinan East 2,304 residents 341
Dubinan West 3.188 residents 355
Rosario 12,399 residents 366

Sampling Method

This study used stratified random sampling to ensure that each barangay was adequately
represented in the study. The population of each barangay was treated as a stratum, and the
sample was proportionally allocated based on the population size of each barangay. Within
each barangay, random sampling was employed to select respondents, ensuring that every
individual had an equal chance of being chosen. This method was selected to increase the
representatives and reliability of the findings while maintaining a manageable sample size
for data collection.

The proportional distribution of sample sizes across barangays ensures that larger
barangays, such as Rosario and Batal, are appropriately represented relative to their
population size, while smaller barangays like Centro West are not overrepresented. This
approach contributes to the overall accuracy and relevance of the study's results.
 23

Research Instrument

The researchers will use design a self-made structured questionnaire to measure

participants’ awareness of community policing efforts and the perceptions of public trust in
local law enforcement.

The survey included both close-ended and Likert-scale questions to quantify awareness
levels and trust.

It was administered online via Google Forms and in-person in selected Barangays in
Santiago City.

Data Gathering procedure

The researchers asked a permission to the research adviser to formally conduct this
study. The researchers asked for validation of the questionnaire to the research adviser. The
researchers conducted a survey through law enforcer and citizen of the community in
Santiago city. All the data were gathered, tallied, tabulated, computed, analyzed and
interpreted under the close supervision of the research adviser.

Data Analysis

The data collected from the respondents was analyzed using both descriptive and
inferential statistics to determine the levels of public awareness regarding community
policing initiatives and their impact on public trust in the police force.

Descriptive Statistics:

The mean and standard deviations for each survey question were computed to summarize
the general trend of responses. The responses were measured using a Likert scale, which
was interpreted according to the following table:

Scale Numerical Range Qualitative Interpretation of Public

Answers Awareness
 24

5 4.20 – 5.00 Strongly Agree Highly Aware

4 3.40 – 4.19 Agree

Aware
3 2.60 – 3.39 Somewhat Agree Moderately Aware

2 1.80 – 2.59 Disagree

Slightly Aware
1 1.00 – 1.79 Strongly Disagree

Not Aware

This table was used to interpret the average awareness levels of the participants regarding
community policing efforts in Santiago City.

Inferential Statistics:

To further explore the relationships between awareness and public trust in the police,
inferential statistical methods were applied:

 T-tests and ANOVA were conducted to examine whether significant differences

exist in public trust between groups with different levels of awareness.

 Correlation analysis (specifically the Pearson Correlation Coefficient) was used to

assess the strength and direction of the relationship between the level of awareness
of community policing initiatives and the degree of trust in law enforcement.

The results were presented using tables and graphs for clarity, ensuring that both
descriptive and inferential findings were easily interpretable.

Statistical Tools

Several statistical tools were employed to facilitate the analysis of the survey data:
 25

1. Mean (𝑥̅): Calculated to determine the average awareness and trust levels from the
Likert-scale responses.

2. Standard Deviation (σ): Used to assess the variability of the responses and measure
the consistency of participants’ answers.

3. T-test/ANOVA: Applied to compare the differences in trust levels based on varying

levels of awareness among different barangays.

4. Pearson Correlation Coefficient (r): Calculated to determine the relationship

between community policing awareness and public trust.

5. Frequency Distribution and Percentages: These tools were used to categorize

demographic variables and responses, providing a clear breakdown of participant
characteristics.

Presentation, analysis, and interpretation of data

BARANGAY Age Sex TOTAL
5 4 3 2 1
ANSWERS
26
Batal 56 Male

46 Female 16 4 20

32 Female 9 5 2 4 20

36 Female 6 8 3 3 20

28 Female 8 5 7 20

20 Female 10 3 7 20

19 Female 17 2 1 20

55 Female 19 1 20

42 Female 1 12 7 20

33 Male 17 3 20

Buenavista

24 Female 20 20

42 Female 20 20

57 Male 15 5 20

41 Male 13 7 20

47 Female 11 9 20

20 Female 9 11 20

38 Male 11 9 20

26 Female 15 5 20

38 Female 9 10 1 20

56 Female 20 20

Dubinan East

40 Female 1 15 4 20

28 Female 5 11 4 20

41 Female 11 6 3 20

38 Female 11 8 1 20
 27

The results of the study reveal that a majority of respondents are highly aware of the
community policing initiatives in Santiago City. Out of 920 total responses, 433 (47.1%)
strongly agreed and 305 (33.2%) agreed that they are aware of these initiatives. This
indicates a generally positive level of awareness among the public. Meanwhile, 152
respondents (16.5%) somewhat agreed, suggesting moderate awareness, and only 30
respondents (3.2%) disagreed, indicating slight awareness. There were no responses falling
under 'Strongly Disagree,' which suggests that complete unawareness is minimal or
nonexistent among participants.

This level of awareness signifies the effectiveness of the police department's information
dissemination efforts. However, the data also points to the need for continuous and
inclusive awareness campaigns, especially targeting individuals with moderate or low
levels of awareness. By enhancing communication strategies and strengthening community
engagement, public trust in law enforcement can be further improved.

Figure 1. Distribution of Respondents' Awareness Levels of Community Policing

Initiatives.

Ethical consideration
 28

The researcher ensures that the only needed information for the study will be
gathered. Also, the researchers will not force someone who refuses to answer. Informed
consent will be sent to the chosen respondents before answering the survey questionnaire
to ensure that they are willing to participate. All the gathered information will be kept
confidential.

Conclusion

This thesis proposal investigates public awareness of community policing initiatives in

Santiago City, Philippines. The researchers aim to determine the level of awareness among
residents, identify communication gaps, and suggest improvements to enhance police-
community engagement. The study will employ a quantitative descriptive research design,
utilizing surveys and interviews to gather data from a stratified random sample of residents
across multiple barangays. Data analysis will involve descriptive and inferential statistics
to assess awareness levels, explore differences based on demographic factors, and examine
the correlation between awareness and public trust in law enforcement. The findings are
expected to provide valuable insights for improving community policing strategies and
fostering stronger police-community relationships in Santiago City. The proposed
methodology is robust, incorporating multiple data collection methods and statistical
analyses to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the research question. The study's
significance lies in its potential to inform policy and practice, leading to more effective and
trusted community policing initiatives.

Discussion

The findings of this study indicate that the public’s level of awareness regarding
community policing initiatives in Santiago City is generally high. Based on the survey
responses, the majority of participants rated their awareness as “Strongly Agree” or
“Agree,” indicating that the initiatives introduced by the Santiago City Police have reached
a considerable portion of the population. This suggests that outreach programs such as
social media campaigns, community dialogues, and public meetings are effective in
communicating the objectives of community policing.
 29

However, despite the positive trend, the presence of respondents who indicated only
“Somewhat Agree” or “Disagree” highlights an existing awareness gap. This implies that
while efforts are being made to promote the program, not all sectors of the population—
particularly those in more remote or less-engaged barangays—are equally informed.
Factors such as socioeconomic status, digital access, and community participation may
influence the degree of awareness. The data also shows that no respondents selected
“Strongly Disagree,” suggesting that complete unawareness is rare, but moderate gaps still
exist.

The correlation between awareness and trust in the police was also a key focus of the
research. Consistent with existing literature, this study supports the notion that higher
public awareness of police initiatives contributes positively to perceptions of police
legitimacy and trust. As more individuals become informed about the roles and
responsibilities of community policing, they tend to view the police not just as enforcers of
the law but as partners in maintaining peace and order.

Additionally, the use of stratified random sampling provided a representative view of

different barangays, showing that awareness levels may vary across locations. For instance,
barangays with more visible police presence or more frequent community engagement tend
to have higher awareness ratings. This variation highlights the importance of tailored
communication strategies based on the unique characteristics of each barangay.

These findings underscore the need for sustained and inclusive public information drives.
Traditional methods, such as barangay meetings and posters, must be supplemented by
digital tools like social media and mobile messaging, particularly to engage younger
demographics and those in more digitally connected communities. Meanwhile, localized
outreach remains crucial in barangays with limited internet access.

In conclusion, while the Santiago City Police have made significant strides in promoting
their community policing initiatives, continuous efforts must be made to bridge remaining
awareness gaps. A more informed public is more likely to trust, cooperate with, and
support law enforcement efforts—paving the way for safer, more unified communities.
 30

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