IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICE OPERATIONS IN RELATION TO CRIME RATE

This study assessed the level of implementation of police operations—specifically patrol, law enforcement, internal security, public safety, investigation, and police-community relations—about the crime rates in the municipalities of Siocon, Sirawai, and Baliguian, Zamboanga del Norte, for the calendar year 2023–2024. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, data were gathered from residents, barangay officials, and police personnel. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, and Pearson’s Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient were used for analysis at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that police operations were perceived to be highly implemented, although minor issues such as inconsistent practice of the buddy system during patrol were noted. Among the three municipalities, Baliguian recorded the highest incidence of non-index crimes, Siocon had a notable frequency of reckless imprudence cases, and Sirawai registered the highest rates of frustrated and attempted murder. Siocon also recorded the highest overall crime rate. Correlation analysis indicated that police-community relations did not significantly relate to the implementation of police operations, whereas patrol, law enforcement, internal security, public safety, and investigation were significantly interrelated. These findings suggest that while police officers generally fulfill their duties, community members expect more engagement, especially regarding the enforcement of traffic regulations and responsiveness to public concerns. The study recommends that the Philippine National Police emphasize both operational effectiveness and the legitimization of their presence within communities. A more comprehensive follow-up study using similar variables but alternative methodologies is also encouraged. Keywords: Crime Rate, Internal Security, Law Enforcement, Patrol Operations, Police-Community Relations, Public Safety