Effectiveness of the Philippine National Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal K9 Unit in Safeguarding the Puerto Princesa Community: Public Insights on Safety and Security
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.385Keywords:
Approachability, Community Safety, Deployment, EOD K9 Unit, Public Perception, Public Trust, Puerto Princesa City, Tourism Security, VisibilityAbstract
This study assessed the perceived effectiveness of the Philippine National Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit in safeguarding the Puerto Princesa community. Anchored on Routine Activity Theory and Community Policing Theory, the study used a quantitative research design involving 60 respondents composed of 40 residents and 20 tourists. Data were gathered through a research-made questionnaire measuring the unit’s visibility, approachability, training, deployment, public safety contribution, and operational challenges. Findings showed that the PNP EOD/K9 Unit was perceived as effective in visibility and deployment, and very effective in approachability and training. Public perception of safety and security in relation to the unit’s operations was rated strongly agree, indicating strong confidence in its role in promoting protection and public reassurance. Significant differences were found between residents’ and tourists’ perceptions in terms of visibility, training, and deployment, while no significant difference was found in approachability. The main operational challenges included crowd density, weather-related limitations, public intimidation, possible mishandling, and concerns related to canine socialization. The study concluded that the unit contributes meaningfully to public safety in Puerto Princesa, although improvements are needed in visibility, deployment, communication, resource support, training enhancement, and public engagement. The study supports SDG 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. Its sustainability impact lies in strengthening institutional readiness, community safety, tourism confidence, governance responsiveness, and evidence-based public safety planning.
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