Partnering for Peace: PNP’s Community-Centered Policing Initiatives in Negros Occidental

This study assessed the effectiveness of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Community and Service-Oriented Policing (CSOP) operational initiatives in Negros Occidental, with a focus on fostering trust, promoting collaboration with local communities, and improving public safety. Employing a descriptive-correlational research design, data were gathered from 262 respondents representing local government units (LGUs), police workforce, and community leaders in Bacolod City, Silay City, and Bago City. The study measured perceptions of key CSOP initiatives—including town hall meetings, patrol frequency, police responsiveness, and community engagement—and evaluated their impact on public trust and confidence in the police from 2020 to 2023. Results indicated that while CSOP initiatives were generally perceived as effective, patrol frequency received average ratings, highlighting the need for enhanced police visibility. Trust and confidence in the PNP were moderate overall, with police fairness rated highly but police effectiveness perceived as average. Statistical analyses revealed that perceptions of effectiveness significantly varied by age and designation but not by sex, civil status, or location. The effectiveness of CSOP initiatives was found to be a significant predictor of public trust and confidence in the police force. The findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies to increase patrol visibility, strengthen community engagement, and address demographic factors influencing perceptions. This research provides actionable recommendations for refining CSOP implementation and developing targeted programs to enhance peace, safety, and collaborative governance at the barangay level in Negros Occidental.