Browse Research

Thesis · 2025

A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON BULLIED STUDENT

Authors: SERRANO, JOHN LAURENCE M. REGOYA, PETER JOHN B. ALBARACIN, MICHAEL P. PEREZ, JOHN BRYAN O. ESCABARTE, JERIAN D. JUDAR, BENEDICT H.

Abstract This study explores the lived experienced of bullied student, focusing on the micro level of Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory specifically the Family, Peers and School. Using a Qualitative Phenological research design the study involved selected participants who directly experienced bullying. The study found that bullying negatively affects students’ emotional and psychological well-being, leading to fear, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal. These experiences are influenced by the family, school, and peers. Support from family and friends helps students cope, while effective school responses improve their safety and well- being. Recovery is possible through resilience and strong support systems, showing that bullying, coping, and recovery are interconnected. This study highlights that bullying has serious emotional and psychological effects on students, and their experiences are shaped by the support they receive from family, school, and peers. It also emphasizes that strong support systems and effective responses can help students cope and recover from bullying. Key words: Bullied student, lived experience, Phenomenological.

Thesis · 2025

BARANGAY SECURITY INITIATIVES AND SOCIAL COHESION AS PREDICTORS ON PERCEIVED RESIDENTS’ SAFETY IN DALIAON PLANTATION

Authors: DELPONSO, SEVERA MARIE ANDAL, CARL JOSEPH B. DUYAN, HANNAH MAE O. TUBOG, KING LLOYD D. POLLO, CARL MARI S. MORTA, CRIZZA JIE F. JUANITE, ANNIKA A.

Abstract This study focuses on how barangay security initiatives and social cohesion affect the perceived safety of residents in Barangay Daliaon Plantation, Davao City. It aims to identify the level of security measures, social connection among residents, and how safe they feel, as well as to determine if these factors are related to each other. The researchers used a descriptive-correlational design with a predictive approach. A total of 50 residents aged 30 and above were selected through random sampling. Data were gathered using a self-made questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression. The results showed that barangay security initiatives were rated high, while social cohesion was rated very high, meaning that residents have strong trust and cooperation within the community. Perceived safety was also rated high, showing that most residents feel secure in their area. The findings also revealed that both security initiatives and social cohesion have a significant relationship with perceived safety. When combined, these variables can predict how safe residents feel. The study concludes that strong security efforts and good relationships among residents help improve community safety. Keywords: Barangay security, social cohesion, perceived safety, community, safety measures

Thesis · 2025

PERCEIVED GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY AND STUDENTS’ TRUST IN THE GOVERNANCE

Authors: BAYRON, RALPH LORENZ MANGALOS, ANGEL MAE SANTIAGO, APPLE MAE GABI, ALYYAH SANDRA SABERON, ANGELINE AVILA, CHRISTIAN ORIAS, KARYLL

Abstract Declining trust in governance among students has become a growing concern, as perceptions of government transparency may influence their confidence in public institutions and governance processes. This study aimed to determine the influence of perceived government transparency on students’ trust in governance at Davao Central College. Using a quantitative non-experimental descriptive-correlational and predictive research design, the study involved 270 college students selected through proportionate stratified random sampling. Data were gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and Multiple Linear Regression Analysis. The findings revealed that the level of perceived government transparency and students’ trust in governance were both high, with anti-corruption measures and effectiveness in law enforcement obtaining the highest mean scores in their respective variables. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive relationship between perceived government transparency and students’ trust in governance (r = .839, p = .000), indicating that higher levels of transparency are associated with higher levels of trust among students. Regression analysis further revealed that access to public information, anti-corruption measures, and budget expenditure transparency significantly influenced students’ trust in governance, while accountability of government officials did not significantly predict trust. The regression model explained 70.6% of the variance in students’ trust in governance. The findings support Transparency Theory, which emphasizes that openness, accessibility of information, and accountability strengthen public confidence in governance institutions. The study highlights the importance of transparent governance practices in fostering students’ trust in governance and recommends that government institutions continue strengthening transparency initiatives, improve public access to reliable information, and reinforce anti-corruption practices to sustain and enhance public trust among students and citizens. Keywords: Government transparency, students’ trust in governance, correlation analysis

Thesis · 2025

THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF IMPLEMENTORS OF THE BARANGAY ANTI-DRUG ABUSE COUNCIL PROGRAM

Authors: DESIERTO, PRINCE RYAN O. LUCHAVEZ, RHYAN REY B. ORLANES, IAN MARIONNE LAURONAL, JOMARIE A. DE GUZMAN, RENIEL A. TAGSIP, JOHN REY M.

Abstract The implementation of the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) program plays a crucial role as a community-based strategy in addressing drug-related problems at the grassroots level. However, its implementation also exposes various challenges experienced by those directly involved in the program. This study explored the lived experiences of BADAC implementors in Catigan, Davao City, Philippines using a qualitative phenomenological design. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with selected barangay officials using purposive sampling and were analyzed through thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and meanings. The findings revealed several key themes. The first, Structural and Operational Challenges in BADAC Implementation, highlights difficulties such as monitoring reformists, insufficient resources, and the heavy demands of documentation and reporting. Another theme, Community-Centered and Holistic Approach to Drug Rehabilitation, emphasizes the importance of livelihood assistance, active family participation, and reintegration programs that support the recovery and social reintegration of individuals affected by drug use. Furthermore, the theme Multi-Agency Coordination and Collaborative Governance underscores the significance of strong partnerships among different agencies to ensure more effective and coordinated implementation of the program. The study also identified emotional demands experienced by implementors, as well as positive outcomes that contribute to sustained program engagement and continuity. Anchored in Realist Program Theory, the findings suggest that program outcomes are shaped by the interaction of context, mechanisms, and intervention processes. Overall, the study underscores the need for stronger institutional support, continuous capacity-building, and sustainable, community-based interventions to enhance BADAC implementation effectiveness. Keywords: BADAC, lived experiences, phenomenology, thematic analysis, barangay implementors

Thesis · 2025

THE PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF POLICE TRAINING ON PREPAREDNESS OF CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS

Authors: CAMBAYA, WENY ROSE C. MONDING, RENALENE S. DELA GENTE, HARRY C. THOMAS, MALIKSHA S. CARRINO, HANELYN D.

Abstract Physical fitness plays an important role in preparing criminology students for the physical demands of police training. This study determined the relationship between the physical demands of police training and the physical preparedness of criminology students. A quantitative research design, specifically the descriptive– correlational method, was used in this study. Data were gathered through a survey questionnaire administered to 100 criminology students selected as respondents. The data were analyzed using statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. The findings revealed that the level of physical demands of police training was high, particularly in activities such as push-ups and sit-ups, which were rated very high, while the 3-kilometer run was rated high. The results also showed that the level of physical preparedness of criminology students was high in terms of both physical strength and physical endurance. However, the correlation analysis indicated that there was no significant relationship between the physical demands of police training and the physical preparedness of criminology students. This means that students’ preparedness may depend more on their personal training and physical conditioning rather than the perceived demands of police training. Keywords: Physical Demands, Physical Preparedness, Police Training

Thesis · 2025

COPING WITH DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: EXPERIENCES OF BATTERED WOMEN SURVIVORS

Authors: ADLAWAN, KENT VAN KRISTOFFER LARRY N. PLEÑOS, CHRISTIAN JAMES E. CELEBRADO, RENIEL C. CELEBRADO, RONIEL C. DUMAGO, RAYMOND G. BASUNILLO, KYLE D.

ABSTRACT This study explored the lived experiences and coping strategies of battered women survivors of domestic violence using a qualitative phenomenological research design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with selected participants and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that survivors experienced continuous abuse, emotional pain, social isolation, and diminished self-worth, reflected in the themes Compounding Violence as Everyday Reality, Shattered Trust and Social Isolation, and Eroded Self-Worth and Internalized Shame. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated resilience through coping mechanisms such as Assertive and Legal Self-Protection, Spiritual and Emotional Regulation, and Relational Support and Children as Lifelines. The study also identified the long-term effects of abuse through Disruption of Daily Life and Lingering Trauma. However, survivors gradually rebuilt themselves through Identity Reconstruction and Assertiveness and Relational Wisdom and Cautious Rebuilding, demonstrating personal growth, empowerment, and recovery. The study highlights the importance of emotional support, legal protection, counseling services, and community-based interventions in helping women survivors recover and rebuild their lives after experiencing domestic violence. Keywords: domestic violence, battered women survivors, coping strategies, lived experiences, resilience

Thesis · 2024

IMPLEMENTATION OF ROTC PROGRAM AND THE EXTENT OF EFFECTIVENESS ON CHARACTER FORMATION AMONG CJE STUDENTS

Authors: SARONA, MARIANNE GAIL A. ALONZO, TRISHA MAE M. SALODES, ROLDELYN D. CINCO, AARON JOSH ORGANIZA, ALEXA F. OSALVO, FERNAN L. PAÑA, GEMAR A.

Abstract This study examines the relationship between the implementation of the ROTC program and the extent of its effectiveness on character formation among First Year Criminology students at Davao Central College. Employing a descriptive research design, the study utilized a sample of First Year Criminology students who participated in the ROTC program. Findings indicate a very high level of ROTC program implementation across military training, leadership training, and patriotism. Similarly, the extent of character formation was found to be very high in terms of military discipline, leadership orientation, and patriotic inclination. While leadership training showed the highest implementation rating, leadership orientation had a relatively lower rating in character formation, and patriotism had the lowest implementation rating. The study suggests that the ROTC program has a significant positive association with character formation. Further efforts are recommended to enhance the practical application of leadership skills and to strengthen the implementation of patriotism within the program. Keywords: reserved officers training corps, character formation, effectiveness, implementation

Thesis · 2024

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NO SINGLE-USE OF PLASTIC ORDINANCE IN TORIL POBLACION, DAVAO CITY

Authors: Buragay, Gelyka June P. Garcia, Joshua Zyrille S. Yee, Jasmine Abigail B. Delig, Princess Kylle C. Bancure, Yuki Marie R. Endino, Sarah Mae O. Aguhob, Angelica A.

Abstract This study assessed the perceived level of implementation and extent of effectiveness of Davao City's No Single-Use Plastic Ordinance in Toril Poblacion, Davao City, as viewed by 385 residents. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational design with convenience sampling, the research examined the level of implementation through six components: plastic usage, plastic disposal, and the single-use plastic refusal campaign. The extent of effectiveness was evaluated based on behavioral change, plastic waste reduction, and public awareness and education. The findings revealed a high perceived level of implementation and effectiveness, with a significant positive relationship between the two. These results indicate that enforcing such ordinances, promoting community engagement, and using local digital platforms to continuously spread the message for a sustainable environment are key to fostering environmental awareness and change. The study supports the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to ensure access to affordable eco-friendly products. The research concludes with recommendations for localized strategies, stronger enforcement, and continuous public reinforcement to cultivate an environmentally friendly mindset. This study further emphasizes that this initiative is more than just regulatory compliance; it's about fostering a greater voluntary shift toward sustainability. Keywords: implementation, effectiveness, single-use plastic, sustainability, community engagement, Davao City’s no single-use plastic ordinance

Thesis · 2024

PAINS AND GAINS OF BARANGAY RESPONDERS IN HUMAN INFLICTED HARM

Authors: VILLALONGJA, MICHAEL ANGELO G. BAUTISTA, MARC ARTHUR C. COMPAS, AL-DAKHIEL B MIRANDA, MARC IAN G. CANGAS, ESSA MAE E. ONUTAN, JOMARI C. ROVIC, AYCO C.

Abstract This study explored the lived experiences of barangay responders in Inawayan, Davao City, in handling incidents of human-inflicted harm. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, the research examined both the challenges (“pains”) and benefits (“gains”) that responders encounter in the course of their service. Data were gathered from selected participants through in-depth interviews and analyzed thematically to capture their personal narratives and coping strategies. Findings revealed that responders face significant physical risks, emotional distress, resource limitations, and community pressure while performing their duties. At the same time, they experience meaningful gains such as community respect, personal growth, resilience, and a deepened sense of purpose. The study further identified adaptive coping mechanisms, including peer support, faith, distraction techniques, and resilience-building practices, that enable responders to sustain their commitment despite adversities. These insights underscore the dual realities of sacrifice and fulfillment in barangay response work. The results of this study may inform policy development, training, and psychosocial support systems aimed at enhancing the safety, well-being, and effectiveness of community-based first responders. Keywords: barangay responders, human-inflicted harm, lived experiences, pains and gains.

Thesis · 2024

HIGH ORDER THINKING SKILLS OF CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS

Authors: MANLIGUEZ, LADY GRACE G. SANCHEZ, PRINCES STAR F. DELIG, VYCHELLE ROSE D. PANCITO, SHANE PEARL J. TUCJAYAO, MARY ANN M. DUO, MARC KENNETH L.

Abstract This study assessed the level of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) among second-year criminology students at Davao Central College, focusing on analyzing, evaluating, and creating. Using a descriptive quantitative design and a standardized test, findings revealed that students demonstrated very high evaluating skills and high levels of analyzing and creating. Most students were categorized as having "High" or "Very High" HOTS, while a few showed moderate to low levels, suggesting a need for instructional support. Discriminant function analysis showed that creating was the most significant factor distinguishing the highest-performing group. The results highlight the importance of integrating active learning strategies to enhance HOTS in criminology education. Keywords: Higher Order Thinking Skills, criminology students, analyzing, evaluating, creating