Barangay Public Safety Officers as Force Multipliers: Basis for Capacity Building Plan

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of Barangay Public Safety Officers (BPSOs) as force multipliers in maintaining peace and order in Barangays 188 and 185, North Caloocan City. It examined key areas, including peace and order, security and safety, traffic management, barangay patrol, emergency response, and competence, as perceived by BPSOs, residents, and Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel. The study also identified challenges faced by BPSOs and proposed strategies to enhance their capabilities.
Using a descriptive research design, data were collected through a self-made survey questionnaire administered to 150 respondents comprising barangay officials, residents, and police officers. Descriptive statistics, including frequency counts, percentage distributions, and weighted means, were used to analyze responses, while One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) determined significant differences in perceptions among respondent groups at a 0.05 significance level.
Findings revealed that BPSOs are generally effective, receiving high ratings for competence, patrol activities, emergency responsiveness, and coordination with the PNP. However, challenges such as manpower shortages, limited infrastructure (e.g., street lighting and CCTV coverage), and gaps in community perception were identified. Differences in assessments among BPSOs, residents, and PNP personnel underscore the need for improved communication and alignment among stakeholders.
In response, a capability-building plan was proposed, focusing on recruitment and manpower expansion, comprehensive training and professional development, resource and infrastructure enhancement, strengthened community engagement, improved coordination, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. This plan provides a structured framework to address gaps, improve operational efficiency, foster public trust, and sustain BPSO effectiveness.
The study concludes that while BPSOs play a vital role in community safety, implementing the proposed strategies is essential to enhance performance, ensure adequate manpower and resources, and strengthen collaboration between the barangay and the community, ultimately promoting a safer and more resilient environment. Accordingly, it recommends increased recruitment, better resource allocation, ongoing training, strengthened coordination, enhanced public awareness, and expanded preventive programs to sustain and improve barangay peacekeeping efforts.