Browse Research

Thesis · 2025

THE IMPACT OF SOCIETAL EXPECTATIONS ON CRIMINOLOGY BEHAVIOR

Authors: MACAMAY, MC SYRELL M. LLOREN, ADRIANE JAY F. YTAC, KAREN CLAIRE E. LAZADA, GLENN JOY PANTIG, RENIELLE J. BALORIO, JAYPRIL S.

Abstract The behavior of criminology students has become a growing and alarming concern. Using a quantitative non-experimental descriptive-correlational research design, this study aimed to determine the significant relationship and influence of societal expectations on the behavior of criminology students at Davao Central College. The study involved 150 non-criminology students selected through simple random sampling. Data were gathered using a validated researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation coefficient, and regression analysis. Findings revealed that societal expectations and criminology students’ behavior were both rated high in terms of discipline, moral integrity, academic competence, ethical conduct, academic performance, and social interaction. Moreover, the results showed a significant moderate positive relationship between societal expectations and criminology students’ behavior (r = .387, p = .000). Regression analysis further revealed that societal expectations significantly influenced criminology students’ behavior, explaining 15% of its variance. The findings support the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy Theory, which explains that individuals tend to behave according to the expectations placed upon them. The study recommends strengthening institutional programs that promote discipline, ethics, leadership, and professional development among criminology students, while future researchers are encouraged to explore other factors influencing student behavior. Keyword: Societal expectations, criminology behavior, regression analysis

Thesis · 2025

KATARUNGANG PAMBARANGAY AS PERCEIVED BY THE VENDORS AND THEIR WILLINGNESS TO ENGAGE IN MEDIATION: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF PEERS AND COMMUNITY

Authors: BASE, AUBREY MACKENZIE P. CABRERA, KARL VINCENT G. YNION, FRANCIS HARVEY B. BASTIDA, EDRIAN JAY AMATONG, JOMARI M. MENDOZA, JENIEL B.

ABSTRACT Unwillingness of vendors to engage in mediation remains a concern in many community-based dispute resolution settings. This study aimed to determine the significance of the mediating effect of peers and community on the relationship between Katarungang Pambarangay and the willingness of vendors to engage in mediation. Using mediation analysis, involving vendor-respondents selected through a survey questionnaire, it was revealed that Katarungang Pambarangay is significantly correlated with willingness to engage in mediation (r = .587, p < .05), and with peers and community (r = .675, p < .05), while peers and community are also significantly correlated with willingness to engage in mediation (r = .675, p < .05). Further, peers and community partially mediate the relationship between Katarungang Pambarangay and willingness to engage in mediation, accounting for 48.3% of the total effect. Hence, social influence plays a crucial role in strengthening the impact of Katarungang Pambarangay on vendors’ participation in mediation. Further research may be undertaken to explore additional variables that may enhance community-based conflict resolution practices and validate these findings. Keywords: Katarungang Pambarangay, peers and community influence, willingness to engage in mediation, mediation analysis, vendors

Thesis · 2025

PERCEPTION OF BUSINESS OWNERS’ READINESS IN EMPLOYING NEWLY RELEASED INMATES

Authors: RICARDO, WILLIAM GABRILLE V. VILLARINO, EDRIAN MARK D. GENOBISA, GLENN KARL U. MABANO, THEA ANGELA S. CINCO, JOHN CLARK F. RAMOS, JOHN GIL S.

Abstract This qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions of business owners regarding their readiness to employ newly released inmates, focusing on their views, concerns, and willingness to provide employment opportunities to formerly incarcerated individuals. Using purposive sampling, selected business owners participated in in-depth semi-structured interviews to share their experiences and insights regarding second-chance hiring. Through thematic analysis, five major themes emerged: (1) Risk Perception and Assessment, which highlights concerns related to offense severity, trustworthiness, and workplace security; (2) Workplace Readiness and Organizational Preparedness, which emphasizes the role of business capacity, employee acceptance, and organizational support systems; (3) Second Chances, Redeemability, and Personal Values, which reflects employers’ beliefs about rehabilitation, personal growth, and opportunities for change; (4) Skills, Training, and Job-Fit Considerations, which focuses on the importance of competencies, qualifications, and job suitability in hiring decisions; and (5) Social Reintegration and Stigma, which examines the influence of public perception, stereotypes, and community acceptance on employment opportunities for newly released inmates. The findings suggest that business owners’ readiness to employ newly released inmates is shaped by a combination of practical business considerations, perceived risks, organizational factors, personal values, and social influences. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of employer perspectives and may provide valuable insights for the development of employment programs, reintegration initiatives, and support systems that promote successful community reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. Keywords: Business Owners, Newly Released Inmates, Employer Perception, Employment Readiness, Reintegration.

Thesis · 2025

THE LIVED EXPERIENCE: LITIGATION PROCESS OF TRIBAL LEADERS

Authors: VILLALONGJA, ROHANN P. MONTERO, EVANDER S. LEGASPI, KIRVY AL K. LEGASPI, KIER JAY K. HAMOT, RAYMOND P. SORIANO, JESTER L. TAGALA, JANSEN P. PULIRAN, RICO P.

ABSTRACT The litigation process surrounding laws among indigenous people represents a critical discussion of the coexistence and interaction between traditional governance and the formal judicial system. This study aimed to explore and describe the lived experiences of tribal leaders in the litigation process. A qualitative phenomenological research and thematic analysis was utilized to understand the three tribal leaders from the indigenous communities of Barangay Atan-awe, Sibulan, and Baracatan. The findings revealed that the community maintains an independent, elder-led justice system featuring a structured sequence rooted in collective accountability, truth-telling, and harmony which affirms legal pluralism theory. However, tribal leaders face significant challenges in the litigation process, including suspects denying allegations, complex land and rape disputes, and notably, community members bypassing tribal decisions and seek formal legal intervention. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct comprehensive comparative studies across diverse tribal communities to document, preserve, and systematically analyze various indigenous customary laws. Keywords: lived experience, litigation process, tribal leaders, qualitative phenomenological study, legal pluralism theory.

Thesis · 2025

LIVED EXPERIENCES OF JAIL OFFICERS IN DAILY MANAGEMENT OF PERSON DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY

Authors: SAMUEL, JOHN LAURENZ SUMAGCA, JEFFREY JR. RADO, DHENEILE JEAN EGONIA, DEVIE ROSE SILAGAN, RUFFA MAE PANERIO, JENNIFER TADTAD, ZEAH MAE

Abstract This qualitative phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of jail officers in daily inmate management within the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), specifically at Maa Jail in Davao City. Guided by Edmund Husserl’s Phenomenological Theory, the study utilized purposive sampling to select five jail officers with at least one year of experience for in-depth, semi- structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the data revealed six primary themes: (1) Daily Challenges and Operational Stressors, including administrative burdens and the constant vigilance required in correctional work; (2) Carrying the Invisible Weight, which highlights the emotional impact of professional suppression and the burden of inmate-related losses; (3) Beyond the Badge, illustrating deep compassion and a strong sense of service among officers; (4) Systemic Constraints, focusing on limited resources and the manipulation of officer goodwill; (5) Reconstructing the Role, where officers transition from being guards to agents of rehabilitation and positive change; and (6) Balancing Discipline and Humanity, reflecting the internal struggle of officers as they strive to maintain discipline while ensuring humane treatment and addressing the emotional vulnerabilities of inmates. The findings underscore that daily inmate management is a complex responsibility shaped by institutional pressures, emotional demands, and the broader realities of correctional work. These findings provide valuable insights into the experiences of jail officers and may contribute to the enhancement of training programs, mental health support initiatives, and rehabilitation practices within the Philippine correctional system. Keywords: Phenomenology, Jail Officers, Inmate Management, BJMP, Lived Experiences, Correctional Work, Institutional Challenges, Rehabilitation, Mental Health Support

Thesis · 2025

CCTV USABILITY AS PERCEIVED BY BARANGAY COMMUNITY AND UTILIZATION BY POLICE OFFICERS AS CRIME BUSTER

Authors: SUMAGAYSAY, ACE JOSEPH D. ALCANO, THANIEL ANGELO C. TUDLASAN, IAN JAKE Q. MAO, ROMMEL JOSEPH GERONG, WENDEL B. TANDING, ALVIN M.

ABSTRACT This study examined the usability of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems as perceived by the barangay community and their utilization by police officers as crime busters in Barangay Crossing Bayabas. Specifically, it assessed the level of CCTV usability in terms of deterring criminal activities, enhancing surveillance, and supporting monitoring and investigation, as well as the level of CCTV utilization in suspect identification, crime investigation and evidence gathering, and police response and case reduction. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected through survey questionnaires administered to 100 barangay community members with firsthand knowledge of CCTV systems. Findings revealed that CCTV systems were perceived to have a very high level of usability and were extensively utilized by police officers as effective tools in crime prevention and law enforcement. Correlation analysis showed a statistically significant relationship between the perception and utilization of CCTV as a crime buster (p = .000, r = .701), indicating a strong positive correlation. The results suggest that favorable perceptions of CCTV contribute to its effective utilization in crime prevention, investigation, and law enforcement activities. Anchored on Situational Crime Prevention Theory, the study concludes that CCTV systems play a vital role in enhancing public safety, strengthening investigative processes, improving police response efficiency, and contributing to safer and more secure communities when integrated with proactive policing strategies. Keywords: Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV), CCTV usability, crime prevention, crime busting, law enforcement, surveillance, police response, suspect identification, crime investigation, Situational Crime Prevention Theory

Thesis · 2025

COMPLIANCE OF ROAD SAFETY AND DRIVING BEHAVIOR AMONG CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS

Authors: SULAIMAN, ARIES NEIL P. MARIN, JOSHUA DAVE L. GADIANE, MICHAEL G. RUBILLAR, DARYL M. ORDANEZA, JAY R T. ADORA, JHON DEV

Abstract Unsafe driving practices continue to be a major source of concern for young drivers and college students. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the degree of driving behavior and road safety compliance among criminology students. There are 150 Davao Central College Criminology students completed a questionnaire created by the researcher as part of the study's quantitative descriptive-correlational research design. The results showed that the respondents had very high levels of both driving behavior and road safety compliance. However, the correlation analysis revealed a very weak positive relationship between two variables and rejected the Planned Behavior Theory. It recommends that schools and road safety organizations continue promoting responsible driving practices, conduct regular road safety seminars, and strengthen student participation in traffic awareness activities. Keywords: road safety compliance, driving behavior, davao central college, criminology students, planned behavior theory,

Thesis · 2025

VIEWS BETWEEN INNOCENCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN JUVENILE JUSTICE

Authors: ALCEBAR, EMMAN HOYLE O. MONTES, JOHN CHARILE C. SOLEDAD, KIAN KYLE S. ALEGADO, MELVIN A. BERONDO, GB Q. BLAS, ARNEL M.

ABSTRACT This study explores the perspectives of professionals on the concepts of innocence and accountability in juvenile justice, particularly in the context of minors involved in criminal offenses. Anchored on the ongoing debate regarding the minimum age of criminal responsibility (MACR) in the Philippines, the research aims to understand how teachers, lawyers, social workers, and religious leaders interpret juvenile behavior, responsibility, and rehabilitation. Using a qualitative descriptive research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with selected participants from Toril District, Davao City. Thematic analysis revealed four major themes: age-differentiated understanding of innocence, discernment as the pivot of accountability, environmental and familial influences on minor behavior, and rehabilitative justice over punitive response. Findings indicate that innocence is viewed as dependent on a child’s cognitive development and awareness, while accountability is primarily based on discernment rather than age alone. Participants emphasized that environmental factors, such as family background and social influences, significantly shape juvenile behavior. Moreover, the study highlights a strong preference for rehabilitation and community-based interventions over punitive measures, aligning with child-centered approaches in the juvenile justice system. The research concludes that effective juvenile justice policies should balance accountability with protection, focusing on developmentally appropriate interventions and strengthening support systems for minors. These insights contribute to improving policies and practices that promote both public safety and the well-being of children in conflict with the law. Keywords: views, innocence, accountability, juvenile justice

Thesis · 2025

BARANGAY INITIATIVES AND COMMUNITY RESILIENCE OF RESIDENT IN PUROK CARSON, BARANGAY LUBOGAN

Authors: CAMPAÑA, MARJORIE JEAN ROSALITA, JOEMARICK SINGSON, ROSE JEAN MOKUDEF, MARJON BAJO, ARVEIL JAKE

ABSTRACT This study examines the relationship between barangay initiatives and community resilience among residents of Purok Carson, Barangay Lubogan. It specifically assesses emergency shelter assistance, relief and medical aid, and livelihood programs in relation to residents’ adaptation, recovery, and coping capacities. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, data were gathered from 100 randomly selected respondents through a researcher-made survey questionnaire and analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. Results revealed that both barangay initiatives and community resilience were rated high. Findings further showed a very strong positive relationship between barangay initiatives and community resilience, indicating that effective local programs significantly enhance residents’ resilience. The study emphasizes strengthening barangay initiatives to further improve community preparedness and recovery. Keywords: Community resilience, barangay initiatives, disaster risk reduction, descriptive-correlational, emergency assistance, livelihood programs

Thesis · 2025

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TASK FORCE MANAGEMENT AND TRUST OF COMMUTERS IN DAVAO CITY

Authors: EVANGELIO, RICHARD L. SINDO, NEIL ALDRIN G. DADACAY, JEFFERSON NOPAL, JOSHUE S. HERNOSA, RENCE APARRE, LENMAR TUBIG, JUNNEL

Abstract The effectiveness of Task Force management and the level of trust among commuters in Sirawan, Toril, Davao City remain important concerns in ensuring public safety, security, and cooperation between authorities and the public. This study aimed to determine the significant relationship between Task Force management and the trust of commuters in Davao City. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires administered to 100 commuters in Sirawan, Toril, Davao City. The findings revealed that the level of Task Force management in terms of border control, anti-terrorism, and security advocacy was rated very high. Likewise, the level of trust of commuters in terms of personnel, procedure, and security was also rated very high. Furthermore, the study found a significant relationship between Task Force management and commuters’ trust, with an r-value of 0.795 and a p-value of 0.000, indicating a very strong positive correlation. The study concluded that effective Task Force management significantly influences and strengthens the trust of commuters in Davao City. It is recommended that Task Force personnel continue to enhance communication, professionalism, coordination, and security operations to sustain public trust and ensure the safety of commuters. Keywords: Task Force Management, Commuter Trust, Border Control, Anti- Terrorism, Security Advocacy