This qualitative study explored community participation practices in supporting local law enforcement at the barangay level in Eastern Visayas, Philippines. A total of 20 participants—including seven barangay tanods, eight purok leaders, and five local constituents—were purposively selected. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically. Findings show complementary roles across community actors: tanods provide frontline visibility (patrols, curfew support, de-escalation), while purok leaders organize meetings, mobilize residents, and mediate minor disputes. Citizen engagement—via prompt reporting, group messaging, and assembly participation—was associated with quicker responses, fewer petty conflicts, and a stronger sense of collective responsibility. Perceived challenges included fear of retaliation, uneven participation, coordination lapses, and occasional partiality in informal mediation. Overall, community participation appears to enhance vigilance, trust, and responsiveness, but sustained impact depends on consistent coordination, impartial processes, and supportive mechanisms (e.g., training and anonymous reporting). The study recommends capacity-building in conflict mediation, improved protection and reporting protocols, and structured feedback channels to strengthen participatory governance and localized peacekeeping.
Armando A. Alviola (Mon,) studied this question.