Creating a safe and livable municipality requires a collaborative governance model that integrates the efforts of National Government Agencies (NGAs), Local Government Units (LGUs), and community stakeholders. This involvement guarantees that urban development is socially inclusive, sensitive to local demands, and technically sound. As urbanization accelerates, municipalities face complex challenges such as crime, environmental degradation, and social fragmentation. These issues demand multi-sectoral partnerships that promote resilience, equity, and sustainable development (Al-Zubi & Radovic, 2018).

Many law enforcement organizations are forming collaborations with community members in order to reduce crime more effectively and efficiently. These relationships help to facilitate trust between community members, police organizations and the government.

In the past, the communitys involvement in law enforcement efforts has been limited. The community may be a great source of information and assistance, but many police departments are still learning. The public can help police with their investigations and give them information about the specific crime issues in their neighborhood. The initiatives are ideal, but their effective execution is hampered by the attitudes of certain police personnel. Some police officers mindsets are incompatible with the intentions of the laws authors, which is another reason why police-community relations programs do not work, according to Republic Act 8551 or The Community and Service-Oriented Policing System. 

The goal of this research was to determine why the relationships were created and who was involved. This also aimed to define the partnerships aims and the techniques used to attain them. The study also highlighted several practices used by police agencies to successfully solve the gap within the community.

This study determined the tripartite engagement towards a safe and livable municipality through Police Community Relations, specifically on the level of community engagement on the Police Community Relation activities in terms of anti-drug campaign, crime prevention dissemination, livelihood and school activities, and information dissemination program of PNP; the level of Police Officers engagement on Police Community Relations activities in terms of anti-drug campaign, crime prevention dissemination, livelihood and school activities, and information dissemination program of PNP; if there is a significant difference in the level of community engagement as a whole and when respondents were grouped according to their profile; and if there is a significant relationship between the level of engagement of the community and the level of engagement of the police officers on Police Community Relations activities.

This used a descriptive, inferential, and correlational research design. The respondents were the 400 community members, aging 15 to 60 years old and the 133 PNP officers in the municipalities of Maayon, Panitan, Pilar and President Roxas, selected by random. The study used proportionate allocation of the total number of respondents per municipality as the sample size taken from each barangay, specifically in barangays Poblacion Tabuc, Timpas, Dulangan and Poblacion. 

A researcher-made instrument was used. A letter of permission was secured from the Chiefs of Police of the four municipalities. Also, a letter of request was sent to the different barangays of the four municipalities.

Upon retrieval of the questionnaire, the data were processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 program. To describe the respondents profile and their level of engagement, the descriptive statistics were used, including central tendencies. To test the research hypotheses on the difference and relationship, the T-test, ANOVA and the Pearson r were used.

To get consent from respondents and school management, a letter of approval was secured. Separate letters were attached to the questionnaire distributed to the respondents. The letter described the studys aims and assured that all collected data would be kept strictly confidential. 

Based on the gathered data on the level of community engagement on Police Community Relations activities in terms of anti-illegal drug campaign, result revealed a grand mean score of 3.94, interpreted as “Engaged”. This implies that the community is eager to participate in the PNP campaign regarding anti-illegal drugs. They give time to attend the seminars that are related to the discussion on the ill effects of using prohibited drugs. Also, they are willing to serve as informant on the illegal activities related to illegal drugs in their area because they want their places to be drug-free. 

The result aligns with findings from both academic research and official government directives. Community engagement has been recognized as a critical component of Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy (PADS). According to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) (2023), the strategy emphasizes a whole-of-community approach, mobilizing local government units, schools, and civil society to participate in education and advocacy efforts against illegal drugs. This includes attending seminars, supporting rehabilitation, and reporting illegal activities, exactly the behaviors your study observed. Further validating this, Tomaro and Mutiarin (2018) found that Filipino students are willing to engage at all levels of Public Participation Spectrum, from being informed to being empowered. Their study concluded that the PNP had successfully created avenues for citizen involvement and that the public was not only receptive but actively participating in anti-drug efforts. Additionally, Abulon et al. (2022) emphasized that community stakeholders, including barangay officials, teachers, and students, demonstrated strong commitment to anti-drug programs. Their research identified “Engagement of the whole family and the community” as a core theme, reinforcing the idea that grassroots participation is necessary to the attainment of intervention programs.

As to the level of community engagement on Police Community Relation activities regarding Crime Prevention Dissemination, result revealed a grand mean score of 4.25, interpreted as “Highly Engaged”. This implies that the community is very much participative in the programs the PNP conducted, such as crime prevention awareness, and they are building good partnerships and collaboration with the PNP. The community is also preserving harmony in their area and supporting peace and order by abiding the rules and regulations governing the moderation of drinking alcoholic beverages in the street so that crimes will be prevented.

The high level of community engagement in police-led crime prevention activities is consistent with national efforts and scholarly findings. According to the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), crime prevention is most effective when citizens actively collaborate with law enforcement. During the 30th Police Community Relations Month, NAPOLCOM emphasized that “crime prevention relies not only on police work but also on active cooperation between law enforcement and citizens,” highlighting the importance of grassroots participation in maintaining peace and order (Philippine Information Agency, 2025). Similarly, the PNP has directed all units to enhance community engagement and increase awareness of crime prevention strategies. The PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil noted that proactive communication and collaboration with communities are essential to counter misinformation and build trust between citizens and police forces (Sun Star, 2025). The study of Vicente et al. (2020) found that police officers and barangay officials regularly conducted patrols, checkpoints, and crime prevention seminars, with residents actively participating in these efforts. They concluded that community involvement was crucial in sustaining peace and order, especially in moderating behaviors like public drinking that could lead to criminal incidents.

The result further revealed a grand mean score of 4.37, interpreted as “Highly Engaged” in terms of community involvement in police-community relation activities, particularly those related to livelihood and cultural programs. This high level of engagement suggests that community members actively participated in initiatives the Local Government Units (LGUs) and PNP organized, aiming at crime prevention. These programs often include activities that promote local culture, traditions, and sustainable livelihoods, encouraging residents to invest their time in productive and meaningful pursuits. Such involvement not only strengthens community bonds but also serves as a proactive measure to deter criminal behavior by developing a feeling of purpose and belonging among individuals.

This level of engagement aligns with findings that emphasize the significance of community partnerships in effective crime prevention. According to Bascos and Besas, (2024) PNP personnel derive fulfillment from participating in community activities and view these partnerships as essential to reducing crime. Similarly, Vicente et al. (2020) found that regular patrolling, checkpoints, and seminars conducted by police and barangay officials foster community trust and deter criminal behavior. Moreover, the Local Government Units (LGUs) and the PNP have been actively promoting programs that integrate culture, tradition, and livelihood development as tools for public safety. These initiatives not only strengthen social cohesion but also provide meaningful alternatives that steer individuals away from criminal activity (Philippine News Agency, 2018). The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) further underscores that crime prevention is most effective when communities are actively involved, shifting the focus from reactive enforcement to proactive engagement (NAPOLCOM, 2025).

The result also revealed a grand mean score of 4.36, interpreted as “Highly Engaged,” indicating that the community actively supports the PNP information dissemination efforts. This includes providing valuable and reliable information about local crime situations, reporting incidents, and helping correct misinformmation spread through media. Such engagement reflects a collective desire to stay informed and involved in upholding peace and order.

This finding aligns with the National Police Commissions (NAPOLCOMs) (2025) emphasis on community cooperation as a cornerstone of effective crime prevention. The NAPOLCOM asserted that crime prevention is most successful when citizens actively participate in sharing accurate information and engaging with law enforcement. Similarly, Vicente et al. (2020) found that information dissemination and community policing are vital strategies to reduce crime and build trust between the public and the police.

Moreover, initiatives like the Barangay Information Officers Network (BION) in Pagadian City demon-strate how organized community networks can enhance public awareness and support police efforts. These networks serve as frontline sources of information, helping prevent crime through timely and accurate reporting (Mendoza, 2023). The PNP Chief Marbil also emphasized the importance of proactive communication to counter misinformation and foster public trust in law enforcement (Sun Star, 2025).

The study found no significant difference in the level of community engagement in police-community relation activities when respondents were grouped according to sex. This led to the acceptance of the null hypothesis, which states that there is no significant difference in engagement levels between male and female respondents. This implies that both men and women are equally willing to participate in and support the programs the PNP and other stakeholders conducted.

This finding aligns with broader research on community policing in the Philippines, which emphasizes that gender does not significantly affect willingness to engage in crime prevention activities. For instance, Bascos and Besas, (2024) found that PNP personnel observed equal levels of support and cooperation from both male and female community members during the implementation of crime prevention programs. Similarly, Vicente et al. (2020) noted that community trust and participation were not significantly influenced by gender, but rather by the quality of police-community interaction and communi-cation. Moreover, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) continues to advocate for inclusive community engagement, recognizing that effective crime prevention requires participation across all demographics, regardless of sex (NAPOLCOM, 2025).

The result revealed no significant difference in the level of community engagement in police-community relation activities when respondents were grouped according to age. This led to the acceptance of the null hypothesis, stating that age does not significantly influence engagement levels. This implies that individuals across all age groups are equally willing to participate in and support the programs the PNP and other government agencies conducted.

This finding was consistent with broader research in the Philippines, which suggests that age is not a barrier to community involvement in crime prevention efforts. For example, Vicente et al. (2020) found that community members of varying ages actively participated in patrols, seminars, and public safety initiatives, indicating a shared commitment to peace and order. Similarly, Bascos and Besas, (2024) emphasized that community partnerships, regardless of age, are essential for the success of crime prevention programs implemented by the PNP. Moreover, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) conti-nues to promote inclusive engagement strategies, recognizing that effective policing requires coope-ration from all age demographics (NAPOLCOM, 2025). 

The study also found no significant difference in the level of community engagement in police-community relations activities when respondents were grouped according to civil status. This led to the acceptance of the null hypothesis, stating that civil status does not significantly influence engagement levels. This implies that regardless of whether individuals are single, married, or widowed, they are equally willing to participate in and support the programs the PNP and other government agencies conducted.

This finding supports Martinez, (2018) whose evaluation of community policing systems in Isabela revealed that civil status did not significantly affect satisfaction or participation levels in police visibility, traffic management, and community seminars. The study emphasized that community members, regardless of marital status, are co-producers of justice and public safety, contributing equally to crime prevention efforts. Furthermore, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) continues to advocate for inclusive community engagement, recognizing that effective policing requires cooperation across all social categories, including civil status (NAPOLCOM, 2025). Programs such as neighborhood watch, civic action, and barangay-level patrols have shown broad participation across marital groups, reinforcing the idea that civil status is not a barrier to engagement.

The study also revealed no significant difference in the level of community engagement in police-community relation activities when respondents were grouped according to their highest educational attainment. This led to the acceptance of the null hypothesis, stating that educational attainment does not significantly influence engagement levels. This implies that individuals, regardless of their level of education, are equally willing to participate in and support the programs the PNP and other government agencies conducted.

This finding supports the research conducted in Sampaloc, Quezon, which showed that community members across various educational backgrounds actively participated in police-community relation programs, such as public safety seminars and civic action initiatives (Abuyan-Obmerga, 2014). Similarly, the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) emphasized that community education enhances crime prevention, but does not limit participation to any specific educational group. Instead, it fosters inclusive engagement across all sectors, regardless of academic achievement (Philippine News Agency, 2023). Moreover, the PNPs community policing strategy continues to prioritize outreach and collaboration with diverse educational groups, recognizing that effective crime prevention is a joint responsibility that transcends formal education levels (Bascos & Besas, 2024).

The study revealed that the level of police engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities, specifically in the anti-illegal drug campaign, was interpreted as “Highly Engaged,” with a grand mean score of 4.99. This indicates that police officers actively participate in and strongly implement the programs and activities related to the anti-drug campaign. It also implies that the Philippine National Police (PNP) is serious and committed to combating illegal drug activities within communities.

This finding aligns with the PNPs recalibrated Anti-Illegal Drug Campaign Roadmap 2024–2028, which emphasizes a community-oriented, rights-based approach to drug enforcement. Moreover, the national data showed that from July 2022 to June 2025, law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and PNP, confiscated ₱82.79 billion worth of illegal drugs and arrested over 153,000 individuals, including 9,689 high-value targets (PDEA, 2025). These results underscore the intensified and strategic efforts of PNP in partnership with local stakeholders.

In Capiz province, for example, the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) conducted successful buy-bust operations that led to the arrest of seven high-value drug suspects and the seizure of over ₱2.77 million worth of shabu, demonstrating strong local implementation of the national campaign (Philippine Information Agency, 2025).

As to the level of police engagement on Police Community Relation activities regarding Crime Prevention, result revealed a grand mean score of 4.99, interpreted as “Highly Engaged”. This implies that the police officers are very participative in the crime prevention dissemination program. Also, they are very active in establishing good relationship with the community. 

This finding aligns with national efforts to promote community-centered policing. According to Bascos and Besas, (2024) PNP personnel derive fulfillment from their involvement in crime prevention activities and emphasize that community partnerships are essential for effective implementation. Similarly, Vicente et al. (2020) found that regular patrolling, checkpoints, and public safety seminars conducted by police and barangay officials foster trust and reduce criminal activity. The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) also underscores that crime prevention is most effective when it is proactive and collaborative, involving both law enforcement and citizens. NAPOLCOMs recent initiatives highlight the importance of community cooperation in preventing crime before it occurs (NAPOLCOM, 2025)

The result also revealed that the level of community engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities, particularly in terms of livelihood and community programs, was interpreted as “Highly Engaged,” with a grand mean score of 4.99. This implies that PNP officers actively participate in livelihood initiatives and are highly committed to building strong relationships with the community through worthwhile activities that encourage public involvement.

This finding aligns with national efforts to promote community-oriented policing. For instance, the Southern Police District (SPD) implemented a Community Outreach Program in Makati City that featured livelihood training on rug and paper charcoal making, along with the distribution of crime prevention materials and hygiene kits (Southern Police District, 2023). These initiatives reflect the PNPs dedication to the 5-Focused Agenda of Police General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr., which prioritizes community empowerment and engagement.

Additionally, the PCR Compendium Policies the PNP Directorate for Police Community Relations launched provide structured guidelines for effective community outreach, emphasizing collaboration with local stakeholders and proactive engagement strategies (PNP, 2023). These policies aimed to foster mutual trust and respect, which are essential for sustainable peace and public safety.

In Western Visayas, the Capiz Police Provincial Office and Lambunao Municipal Police Station were commended during the 30th PCR Month celebration for their exemplary community engagement efforts, which included clean-up drives, youth forums, and school symposiums - activities that strengthen police-community collaboration (SunStar Iloilo, 2023).

The result further revealed that the level of community engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities, particularly in terms of school-based programs, was interpreted as “Highly Engaged,” with a grand mean score of 5.0. This implies that PNP officers are very active and supportive of school initiatives led by school heads and personnel. Their consistent involvement reflects a strong and collaborative relationship not only with educational institutions but also with the broader community.

This finding supports recent initiatives like the Police Community Academy (PCA) in La Union, where PNP officers trained over 3,500 senior high school and college students in public safety, law enforcement, and civic responsibility (Philippine Information Agency, 2025). The program emphasizes values like discipline, leadership, and teamwork, bridging gaps between the police and the youth.

Similarly, in Mountain Province, the Otucan-Bila National High School signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the PNP to promote discipline, prevent bullying, and foster a safer learning environment. The partnership was praised by students and parents for enhancing school safety and encouraging positive behavior (Philippine Information Agency, 2025)

The result also revealed that the level of police engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities, specifically in terms of information dissemination campaigns, was interpreted as “Highly Engaged,” with a grand mean score of 4.99. This implies that PNP officers are very active in informing the public about local situations, and they take proactive steps to correct misinformation to prevent confusion and maintain public trust.

This finding supports the Philippine National Polices recent efforts to enhance public awareness and transparency. The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has intensified its information dissemination campaign to combat online scams and internet fraud, recognizing the need to educate citizens about digital threats and deceptive schemes (Manila Standard, 2023).

Moreover, the PNP Directorate for Police Community Relations launched the PCR Compendium Policies, which serve as a framework for effective community engagement. These policies emphasize the importance of accurate and timely information sharing, cooperation with local stakeholders, and proactive measures to address public concerns (Philippine Information Agency, 2023).

The result further revealed that the level of police officers engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities, when analyzed by sex, showed no significant difference, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. This implies that male and female police officers were equally active in the campaign against criminality, particularly through information dissemination and in building strong relationships with the community and school personnel.

This finding reflects the Philippine National Polices commitment to gender inclusivity and equal participation in community engagement. According to the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) (2021), the PNP has institutionalized gender mainstreaming programs to ensure that both male and female officers are empowered to deliver gender-responsive services. These efforts include training, planning, and policy development aimed at promoting equal opportunities and leadership roles across the police force.

The result revealed that there was no significant difference in the level of community engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities when respondents are grouped according to age, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. This implies that PNP personnel, regardless of age, including older officers, remain committed and actively engaged in serving and protecting the community.

This finding supported Arevalo, (2024) who found that PNP personnel across age groups exhibit strong organizational commitment, particularly in areas of teamwork, role clarity, and public service. Older officers continue to demonstrate high levels of affective and normative commitment, contributing meaningfully to community outreach and crime prevention efforts.

The result also revealed that there was no significant difference in the level of police officers engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR) activities when grouped according to civil status, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. This implies that regardless of whether police officers are single, married, or widowed, they actively participate in all programs the PNP and other stakeholders conducted in pursuit of peace and order within the community.

This finding supports the PNPs institutional commitment to inclusive engagement, as outlined in the PCR Compendium Policies. These policies emphasize that all personnel, regardless of personal background, are expected to uphold transparency, accountability, and proactive community involvement (Philippine News Agency, 2023). The framework encourages officers to engage in outreach programs, collaborate with local stakeholders, and build mutual respect with citizens. Moreover Martinez, (2018) found in his community-based evaluation of policing systems in Isabela that civil status did not significantly affect police visibility, traffic management, or participation in seminars and community events. The study concluded that police officers, regardless of marital status, are co-producers of justice and public safety, and their commitment to community service remains consistent across demographic categories.

The study found no significant difference in the level of police officers engagement in community programs when grouped according to their highest educational attainment, leading to the acceptance of the null hypothesis. This suggests that regardless of whether officer holds a high school diploma, a college degree, or a postgraduate qualification, they consistently fulfilled their duties as members of PNP.

This result aligns with Martinez, (2019) who emphasized that PNP personnel are guided by a shared mission in maintaining peace and order, and their effectiveness in community-based policing is shaped more by training, leadership, and commitment than by formal education. The findings reinforced the idea that professionalism and dedication to public service transcend academic credentials, and that the PNPs inclusive approach enables all officers to contribute meaningfully to community development.

The result revealed a significant difference in the level of police officers engagement in anti-illegal drug campaigns and crime prevention programs when grouped according to their position and number of years in service, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. This indicates that rank and tenure within the PNP influence the degree of involvement in Police Community Relations initiatives aimed at promoting peace and order.

Higher-ranking officers and those with longer service tend to assume greater leadership roles, coordinate multi-agency efforts, and engage more deeply in strategic planning and community mobilization. In contrast, junior officers often focus on operational tasks, such as patrols and direct enforcement. This stratification of responsibilities reflects the PNPs structured approach to community policing, where experience and authority shape engagement levels (Martinez, 2019).

The PCR Compendium Policies the PNP Directorate for Police-Community Relations launched further reinforced this dynamic. These policies outline differentiated responsibilities based on rank and seniority, emphasizing that senior officers are expected to lead outreach programs, foster stakeholder collaboration, ensure accountability and transparency in community initiatives (Acorda, 2023).

Moreover, the study by Pensotes et al. (2024) on the lived experiences of PCR officers in Samar highlighted that years of service contribute to deeper community trust and more effective program implementation, especially in high-risk areas. Officers with longer tenure demonstrated stronger rapport with local leaders and were more adept at navigating complex social dynamics.

The study revealed a strong positive correlation between the level of police officers engagement and community engagement in Police Community Relations (PCR), with an r-value of .991 and a significance value of .000, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. This indicates that as police officers become more actively involved in PCR activities, community members also showed increased participation and cooperation, reinforcing a mutually beneficial relationship. This finding supports the 2022 Community Engagement Satisfaction Survey conducted in Region X found that community trust and respect for the PNP significantly increased following intensified outreach programs and collaborative initiatives. The study emphasized that effective PCR programs lead to safer neighborhoods and stronger civic participation, especially when both police and citizens share a common goal of eradicating crime and promoting lasting peace (IJMRAP, 2022).

The respondents are very participative and cooperative in the programs and campaigns the PNP conducted in. It is the initiative along Police Community Relations. Also, the members of PNP perform their responsibilities to eradicate criminality that usually transpire in their areas with the active support of the community and other stakeholders. 

The researcher is grateful to everyone who helped with this endeavor, especially the respondents and the Main Campus of Capiz State University.

The author affirms no conflict of interest.