Browse Research

Thesis · 2025

TRAINING QUALITY AND PREPAREDNESS OF SECURITY GUARDS IN RESPONDING TO CRIME-RELATED INCIDENTS

Authors: DEPARINE, GILMELYN B. ROSQUITA, JASMIN C. EGAGAMAO, GEOFF LOPEZ, MAR LOUIE PATLONAG, ARIEL QUIBO, DAVE DIAZ, VINCE

Abstract Security guards play a vital role in maintaining peace and order, protecting property, and responding to crime-related incidents in various establishments. However, the effectiveness of security personnel largely depends on the quality of training they receive and their level of preparedness during emergencies. This study aimed to determine the relationship between training quality and preparedness of security guards in responding to crime-related incidents in Toril, Davao City. Specifically, it assessed the level of training quality in terms of training content relevance, trainer competence and delivery, and practical skills training, as well as the level of preparedness in terms of knowledge, skills, and psychological preparedness. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design. Data were gathered from security guards through a validated survey questionnaire and analyzed using mean and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient. The findings revealed that the level of training quality and preparedness of security guards were both very high. Furthermore, the study found a significant relationship between training quality and preparedness (r = .210, p < 0.05), indicating a weak positive correlation. This suggests that while training quality contributes to preparedness, other factors may also influence the readiness of security guards in responding to crime-related incidents. The study recommends continuous enhancement of training programs, regular practical exercises, and psychological preparedness activities to further strengthen the competence and operational readiness of security personnel. Keywords: training quality, preparedness, security guards, crime-related incidents, practical skills training, trainer competence, psychological preparedness

Thesis · 2025

NARRATIVE OF VICTIMS OF DATA PRIVACY PIRACY

Authors: HINAMPAS,JEANNARD A. FERNANDEZ,KIKIYO A. OROYAN,CLEINTON H. YAWAN LORENS B. ROSALIA,JAYR O RIEL,MARCO R.

ABSTRACT Data privacy piracy is a serious issue in the modern digital world, where personal information is often collected and shared without consent.This study aimed to explore and describe the lived experiences of individual victims of data privacy piracy. A qualitative phenomenological research and thematic analysis was used to understand the 5 individuals who were victims of data privacy piracy in Toril District, Davao City.The findings revealed that victims experienced emotional distress, psychological impact, and fear after their personal data had been compromised and this affirmed the Trauma Theory.The study also identified themes such as immediate coping strategies, psychological adjustment, and heightened digital vigilance following the breach. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct more in-depth studies on the coping mechanisms and long-term psychological effects experienced by victims of data privacy piracy to develop more effective support and digital protection strategies. Keywords: narrative of victims,data privacy piracy,lived experiences,qualitative research method,phenomenological research,thematic analysis,trauma theory

Thesis · 2025

DIGITAL STREETS: EXPLORING THE CONNECTION BETWEEN USAGE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND INDIVIDUALS WELL-BEING

Authors: ZAMORA, ALLIANA MEG D MAGLANGIT, ADRIANNE C. CAMPAÑA, IZZY MARIE V. ARADOR, JOHN MARK C. ALORRO, ANGEL MAE M. GULPO, REYMARK A.. RIVERA, JERICA A.

Abstract This study examined the relationship between social media usage and the well-being of first-year Criminology students at Davao Central College in Toril, Davao City. Using a descriptive-correlational research design with simple random sampling, the study involved selected students who actively use various social media platforms. Social media usage was assessed in terms of content engagement, time management impact, and frequency of use, while well-being was measured through physical, psychological, and emotional dimensions. The findings revealed a very high level of social media usage, indicating that social media is highly integrated into students’ daily routines and academic activities. The overall level of well-being was interpreted as high, suggesting that students generally maintain positive physical, emotional, and psychological conditions despite frequent social media use. Furthermore, the results showed a significant positive relationship between social media usage and well-being, indicating that increased engagement in social media is associated with better well-being among students. These findings suggest that when used purposefully and responsibly, social media can serve as a supportive tool that enhances academic engagement, social interaction, and overall well-being. Keywords: social media usage, well-being, criminology students, digital behavior, Davao Central College

Thesis · 2025

JAIL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND PRISON OVERCROWDING

Authors: PASPE, JACQUELINE KYLLE O. ALCAZAREN, JECYNDHEL E. DADDIH, CHRIST JOHN C. REPONTE, ROE JENN B. INTONG, YHASMINE B. BARRIOS, CHINKY A.

ABSTRACT This study investigated the relationship between the jail management system and prison overcrowding at the Davao City Jail Annex. Using a correlational research design, the study employed a researcher-made survey instrument to collect data from BJMP personnel in Davao City. The primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of management and the extent of institutional congestion, as well as to explore the nature of their relationship. The findings revealed that the level of the jail management system is rated as very high with a mean of 3.81, indicating it is highly effective and well-implemented, with consistent performance in safety and security protocols, services for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL), and personnel responsiveness. in contrast, the level of prison overcrowding was assessed as high with a mean of 2.90, illustrating challenges relating to living conditions, discrepancies between rated capacity, and resource availability. Correlation analysis yielded an r-value of -0.256 and a p- value of 0.073, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. This outcome suggests that there is no significant relationship between jail management effectiveness and prison overcrowding in this area. The results imply that the management system functions with a certain level of resilience, maintaining professional standards irrespective of the physical constraints posed by overcrowding. The study recommends adopting digital management tools and implementing policy interventions aimed at facility expansion and non-custodial alternatives to promote institutional stability. Keywords: Jail Management System, Prison Overcrowding, BJMP Personnel

Thesis · 2025

IS MY SCHOOL SAFE HAVEN? A PERCEPTION OF TERTIARY STUDENTS ON PSYCHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT

Authors: MARTINEZ, PRINCESS NICOLE D. DEIPARINE, CHRISTINE MAE S. PARAME, REIGNIEL JANN B. PARBA, NERIE MAY S. PELI, MCKY EIMAN C. ACMA, LEAH M.

ABSTRACT This qualitative descriptive study explored tertiary students’ perceptions of whether their school serves as a safe haven for psychological development. Conducted at Davao Central College, the study involved five (5) Criminal Justice Education students selected through convenience sampling, and data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that students experienced academic stress, limited freedom of expression, inadequate facilities, and inconsistent institutional support, although the school also promoted growth through friendships, social interaction, resilience, and critical thinking. The study concluded that the school only partially serves as a safe haven for psychological development because, while it provides opportunities for growth, improvements in facilities, support systems, fairness, and psychological safety are still needed to better support students’ well-being. Keywords: Psychological development, Safe haven, Psychological safety.

Thesis · 2025

HOLISTIC EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND ETHICAL DEVELOPMENT AMONG CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS

Authors: PALMA, SATORNINO A. JR DORONIO, JOHN LOUIE B, ATIENZA, ADIOMAR A. ATIENZA, IANJAY, D. LOZANO, GLENN C. ARES, RENARD A.

Abstract This study examines the relationship between holistic educational activities and ethical development among criminology students. It focuses on how curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities influence students’ discipline, competence, compassion, and integrity. The main objective of the study is to determine the level of holistic educational activities, the level of ethical development, and the significant relationship between the two variables. A quantitative descriptive-correlational design was used, involving 287 criminology students from different year levels at Davao Central College selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a validated researcher- made questionnaire and analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and Pearson product-moment correlation. The findings revealed that students demonstrated a very high level of holistic educational activities (mean = 3.45) and a very high level of ethical development (mean = 3.41). Additionally, a significant moderate positive relationship (r = 0.496, p < 0.05) was found between holistic educational activities and ethical development. Based on these findings, the study concludes that increased engagement in holistic educational activities contributes to enhanced ethical development among criminology students. Keywords: holistic education, ethical development, criminology students, correlational study, higher education.

Thesis · 2025

SECRETS REVEALED: LIVED EXPERIENCES OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND CHILDREN (VAWC) VICTIMS

Authors: PANDONG, ZEUS HERMES P. CAMILOTES, RHABBIE JAY H. MAGDULOT, JAMAICA JAY P. HUSAY, JERRICK A. TORREJOS, EXEL G. YRAY, JOREN H.

Abstract Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) remains a significant social issue that affects women’s physical, emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Despite existing legal protections and support mechanisms, many women continue to experience abuse in silence due to fear, shame, stigma, and dependency. This study explored the lived experiences of women victims of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) in Toril, Davao City. Specifically, it sought to understand their experiences of abuse, emotional and psychological struggles, coping mechanisms, resilience, support systems, and help-seeking behaviors. The study utilized a qualitative phenomenological research design. Eight (8) women participants aged 25 years old and above who had personally experienced different forms of abuse were selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were gathered through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and were analyzed using thematic analysis following a phenomenological approach. Findings revealed five emergent themes: (1) Forms and Nature of Abuse Experienced, (2) Emotional and Psychological Impact, (3) Survival, Coping, and Resilience, (4) Support Systems and Help-Seeking, and (5) Silence, Shame, and Isolation. The findings showed that participants experienced interconnected forms of physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse that resulted in fear, trauma, self-blame, emotional distress, and isolation. Despite these experiences, survivors demonstrated resilience through work, faith, family support, and gradual decision-making toward seeking help and rebuilding their lives. The study further revealed that silence and delayed disclosure were influenced by stigma, fear of judgment, and lack of social validation. The study concludes that VAWC should be understood not merely as isolated acts of violence but as a continuing pattern of coercion and control that affects multiple aspects of victim’s lives. The findings support Empowerment Theory by demonstrating that empowerment among victims develops gradually through resilience, support systems, coping strategies, and decision-making processes. The study recommends strengthening survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and empowerment-based interventions that promote protection, psychological support, community awareness, and accessible support systems for victims of VAWC. Keywords: Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC), lived experiences, resilience, empowerment, help-seeking behavior, silence and stigma

Thesis · 2025

EXPLORING CRIMINALISTIC-BASED SUBJECTS IN THE LENS OF CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS

Authors: SOMBILLA, ROBERT M., JR. LONZON, MARWEL JOE B. YANA, BIENZ MICHAEL T. SUSTIGUER, ASHER M. ESTOON RHONIEL C.

Abstract Despite the growing body of literature in criminology education, limited scholarly attention has been directed toward the lived experiences of students enrolled in criminalistics-based subjects, leaving a critical gap in understanding how learners cognitively, practically, and emotionally navigate this technically demanding discipline. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of criminology students in criminalistics-based subjects at Davao Central College, Toril, Davao City. Employing a qualitative phenomenological design, five criminology students were purposively selected and subjected to in-depth interviews, with data analyzed through thematic analysis guided by Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory. The findings revealed five main themes: Learning Engagement and Academic Experience, Hands-on and Practical Learning Experiences, Real-Life Application of Criminalistic Knowledge, Conceptual Understanding and Theory-to-Reality Connection, and Personal Growth and Self-Discovery, alongside an emerging theme of Emotional and Psychological Resilience in Learning. It is recommended that educational institutions invest in well-equipped forensic laboratories, integrate field-based and case-based learning, and embed psychologically supportive and collaborative learning environments to enhance instructional practices and overall learning outcomes in criminalistics education. Keywords: Lived Experiences, Criminalistics Education, Criminology Students, Phenomenological Inquiry, Experiential Learning

Thesis · 2025

ROAD SAFENESS AND ACCIDENT SEVERITY AMONG MOTORCYCLE RIDERS

Authors: SABORBORO, JHON MICHAEL C., LLAMIDO, RODZ RAZEL C., WALINGAN, RICKY JR. V., BUMAAT, CLINT ARNIE T., LAMBAN, CHRISTIAN C., RUIZ, RAY CAESAR

Abstract This study examined the relationship between road safeness and accident severity among motorcycle riders. Specifically, it assessed the level of road safeness in terms of road surface condition, traffic signage and markings, street lighting and visibility, and traffic management and enforcement, as well as the level of accident severity in terms of injuries sustained and motorcycle damage. The study employed a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design. Data were collected using a researcher-made survey questionnaire administered to motorcycle riders. Descriptive statistics, including mean, and standard deviation, were used to describe the variables, while Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was utilized to determine the relationship between road safeness and accident severity. The findings revealed that road safeness was generally rated high, indicating that respondents perceived road conditions and traffic safety measures as generally safe and satisfactory. Accident severity was found to be low to moderate, with most respondents reporting minor to moderate injuries and repairable motorcycle damage. Correlation analysis showed a weak negative relationship between road safeness and accident severity (r = -0.213), suggesting that accident severity tends to decrease as road safeness increases. However, the relationship was not statistically significant (p = 0.138), leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. The study concluded that road safeness alone does not significantly influence accident severity among motorcycle riders. The findings suggest that other factors, such as rider behavior, compliance with traffic regulations, and vehicle condition, may have a greater impact on accident severity. The study recommends strengthening road safety education, traffic law enforcement, rider training programs, and proper motorcycle maintenance to further reduce the severity of motorcycle

Thesis · 2025

ALIGNMENT OF GRADUATE OUTCOMES AND PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AMONG TRI-BUREAU PERSONNEL

Authors: CANIBAN, RALPH LAWRENCE S. BINALON, CARL ANGELO I. ABOLOYAN, LYSSA JOY R. LAGUTOM, KEIN AIYAN J. ENRIQUEZ, KURT L TUMALASIC, GIAN

Abstract The alignment between higher education graduate outcomes and the professional competence required in public safety agencies remains a significant concern, particularly in ensuring that criminology graduates are adequately prepared for service in the Tri-Bureau agencies. This study aimed to determine the alignment between the graduate outcomes of Davao Central College (DCC) and the professional competence of personnel in the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, data were gathered from twenty-five (25) Criminology alumni employed in the Tri-Bureau through a researcher-made questionnaire. Statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and simple linear regression were utilized in analyzing the data. Results revealed that both graduate outcomes (M = 3.67) and professional competence (M = 3.65) were rated as Very High. Furthermore, findings showed a very strong and significant positive relationship between graduate outcomes and professional competence (r = .840, p < .05). Regression analysis further indicated that graduate outcomes significantly influenced professional competence among Tri-Bureau personnel. The findings support Human Capital Theory, emphasizing that competencies developed through higher education contribute significantly to professional effectiveness and performance. It is recommended that Davao Central College continue strengthening outcome-based and experiential learning programs, regularly review its curriculum, and enhance competency development initiatives to further improve graduate preparedness and professional competence in public safety service. Keywords: Graduate Outcomes, Professional Competence, Tri-Bureau Personnel, Criminology Alumni, Human Capital Theory.