Impact of Body-worn Cameras (Bwcs) and Alternative Recording Devices (Ards) on Citizen Complaints and Use of Force Reports in the Police Force of Oriental Mindoro: a Basis for Policy Framework

This study explored the impact of body-worn cameras (BWCs) and alternative recording devices (ARDs) on citizen complaints and use of force reports in the police force of Oriental Mindoro as a basis for the development of a policy framework. This study used a mixed method design by collecting complaint data before and after BWC use, then conducting interviews with police and community members to explain the results. It focused on selected barangays in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro with high crime rates, using purposive sampling to choose 15 police officers and 15 community participants. Data were analyzed using basic statistics and thematic analysis, while ethical standards and confidentiality were strictly followed. Results showed that BWCs and ARDs have shown positive effects on reducing complaints, particularly in terms of police conduct and evidence handling, but challenges in evidence gathering and procedural inefficiencies still require attention for further improvement. BWCs and ARDs enhanced police accountability, transparency, and trust in law enforcement and were proven to be an effective tool in establishing greater transparency and reducing complaints against police. They have positively transformed police behavior, contributing to greater accountability and fewer complaints. Thus, the study proposed a policy framework that is a structured, accountable, and transparent system that improves police professionalism and strengthens community trust.