CRIME MAPPING: PERCEPTIONS OF POLICE

OFFICERS IN BCPO – STATION 3

A Research
Presented To
The Faculty of the College of Criminal Justice Education
BAGUIO CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
Baguio City

By:
GREG B. BOMONGAL
STEPHANIE L. NAHPADAN
WENDELL A. TEKLA

July 2024
 ABSTRACT

This research study is conducted to determine the importance of crime mapping, the
challenges by the PNP in crime mapping, the strategies employed by the PNP in crime mapping,
and the effectiveness of PNP in crime mapping. Meanwhile, it is gathered through survey
questionnaires answered by nine (9) PNP members of BCPO STATION 3 Crime Mapping
Division. A qualitative method that employs thematic design was used in the analysis to
determine importance, challenges and strategies of PNP members in conducting crime mapping.
As a result, the importance of crime mapping is tracking crime locations, crime prevention,
community engagement, collaboration and data sharing, deploying resources where they’re
needed, crime control and management. Furthermore, challenges encountered by are no internet
access, knowledge gap, and community trust issues. Moreover, strategies are building
community trust, finding crime hotspot, embracing technological advancement, crime prevention
education.

Keywords: challenges, Strategies, Importance, Effectiveness, Crime mapping

 INTRODUCTION

Crime mapping is an important technique in criminology and law enforcement, allowing

for the display and analysis of spatial crime trends. This paper presents a brief history of crime
mapping, from its inception in the nineteenth century to the advanced digital approaches utilized
today.

In the early 20th century, crime mapping was rudimentary, primarily relying on pin maps
and paper records. The advent of World War II and the subsequent post-war period brought
about significant changes in various fields, including criminology. The need for efficient crime
control mechanisms led to increased interest in crime mapping as a tool for spatial analysis and
strategic planning. (Boba, 2005). Crime mapping in the 20th century has undergone significant
evolution, driven by advancements in technology and methodologies. The early 1900s saw the
emergence of rudimentary crime mapping techniques, primarily utilizing pins on physical maps
to denote locations of criminal activity. (Goring, 1913).

Before the 1990’s, crime mapping referred to any method of geographic analysis, even
those that involved pushpins, colored dots, and paper maps. However, crime mapping usually
means the specific use of computerized geographic information System (GIS). (Hunt, 2019).

According to the information from Cooper and Schmitz (2003) in South Africa on how
effective is the tactical crime mapping with the help of the Crime Scene Reconstruction
Information (CSRI), they stated that tactical crime mapping techniques we have used for all
these cases are standard for computerized mapping. What is crucial is ensuring the quality of the
digesting done for the maps and taking great care over the preparation of the maps, to ensure
they are not cluttered, are easy for the court to understand and present all the data truthfully.

The history of crime mapping in the Philippines dates back to the mid-20th century.
During this period, crime data was recorded manually by law enforcement agencies. These
records were typically maintained in paper files, which made comprehensive analysis
challenging and time-consuming. Crime trend analysis during this era was largely reactive,
focusing on responding to incidents rather than preventing them. In the late 1990s and early
2000s marked a significant transition as law enforcement agencies began to adopt digital
technologies. The introduction of computers and basic data management systems allowed for
more efficient recording and retrieval of crime data. This period saw the first steps towards the
digitalization of crime records, setting the stage for more advanced crime mapping techniques,
(Hunt, 2019).

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on community involvement and
transparency in crime prevention efforts. Law enforcement agencies have leveraged crime
mapping to engage with communities through public safety meetings and online platforms. By
sharing crime maps with the public, police have fostered a collaborative approach to crime
prevention, enhancing public trust and encouraging community participation in safety initiatives.
Today, crime mapping in the Philippines continues to evolve with advancements in technology.
The integration of real-time data analytics, mobile applications, and sophisticated predictive
policing models is on the horizon. These innovations promise to further enhance the capabilities
of law enforcement agencies, making crime prevention more proactive and data-driven.
Additionally, there is an ongoing focus on improving data sharing and collaboration
between various law enforcement and government agencies to create a more
comprehensive approach to public safety. (Garcia, 2015).

Crime mapping in Baguio City, from manual records to sophisticated GIS-based

analyses, the evolution of crime mapping has played a crucial role in transforming how
the city addresses crime. As technology continues to advance, Baguio City stands poised
to further enhance its crime prevention strategies, ensuring a safer environment for its
residents and visitors alike. crime mapping in Baguio City is a testament to the city's
commitment to improving public safety through technological innovation. From manual
records to sophisticated GIS-based analyses, the evolution of crime mapping has played a
crucial role in transforming how the city addresses crime. As technology continues to
advance, Baguio City stands poised to further enhance its crime prevention strategies,
ensuring a safer environment for its residents and visitors alike, (Reyes, et, al, 2005).

In addition, The Philippine National Police (PNP) implemented the Electronic

Blotter System (E-Blotter) in 2011, which marked a watershed moment in the
advancement of crime mapping in Baguio City. The E-Blotter device allowed for digital
recording of crime scenes, which greatly enhanced data accuracy and accessibility. For
Baguio City, this meant a more simplified approach to data gathering and processing,
allowing for faster response times and more efficient allocation of police resources,
(Bacani, 2012).

Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

Social disorganization theory state that structural conditions within a

neighborhood attenuate the social ties that promote social cohesion and enable
community members to exercise social control. Economic deprivation creates undesirable
living conditions that promote residential instability and population heterogeneity.
Because social ties require time to form, high residential instability in neighborhoods
prevents the development of social ties as residents frequently relocate (Bursik &
Grasmick, 1993).

For instance, in neighborhoods with high levels of population heterogeneity the

extensiveness of friendship and acquaintance networks through which social control is
exercised is limited because of social and cultural barriers between residents). Structural
factors such as these compromise the social integration of neighborhood residents and
undermine perceptions of collective efficacy, that is, the collective sense of trust, social
cohesion, and willingness to intervene on behalf of the public good.

Routine Activities Theory is a theory that focuses on spatial patterns of crime. To

Cohen and Felson, crime is a predatory activity and, as such, can subsist only near
patterns of legitimate activity. Therefore, to understand crime patterns it is necessary to
understand the patterns of conventional routine activities around which crime is
organized. Criminal victimization occurs where routine activities produce a convergence
in space and time of the three necessary conditions for crime to occur: a suitable target, a
motivated offender, and the absence of capable guardians (Cohen & Felson, 1979).

Also, in applications of this theory to spatial crime analysis, structural features of

the city, patterns of land use, and the routine activities associated with particular locations
can concentrate motivated offenders and suitable targets into areas with limited
guardianship. This, in turn, fosters opportunities for criminal victimization.

According also to the theory Crime Pattern Theory, offenders search for suitable
targets primarily within this awareness space by comparing potential targets against
templates, or mental conceptualizations of the characteristics of appropriate targets. The
likelihood of a particular target being selected by an offender dramatically decreases as
an offender moves away from his or her awareness space, a process often referred to as
distance decay (Rengert, et.al., 1999).

In addition, one interesting application of this theory is geographic profiling,

which attempts to narrow the scope of police investigations by using information on
repeated crimes to identify the awareness space of a repeat criminal.

Significance of the study

To the Philippine National Police, the result of this study to help them to enhance
crime prevention, strengthen investigations, supports law enforcement strategies, and
ultimately contributes to improving public safety and the overall efficiency of the
Philippine National Police.

To the criminology students, the result of the study will provide valuable insights
into potential career paths, highlight the importance of technological proficiency in
modern criminology, and identify key areas for academic and practical focus within the
realm of crime mapping.

To the future researchers that may utilize this study as a reference material in
undertaking similar theme about the effects of crime mapping.

Paradigm of the study

The paradigm of the study is present in figure 1. The input is the importance of
crime mapping in Barangay Gibraltar, the problems encountered by the PNP in
conducting crime mapping at Barangay Gibraltar ant the strategies employed by the PNP
response to the problems encountering crime mapping.

The process is conducting a face-to-face interview using a qualitative-narrative

approach and transcribing and interpreting the data using the thematic analysis.

The output of our research will determine the crime mapping process through
which crime analysts and researchers use location information about crime events to
detect spatial patterns in criminal activity of the said locations.
 Input Process Output
Police officers
assigned at
1. The Crime mapping
Barangay
researchers process
Gibraltar.
will use a through which
1. Importance qualitative - crime analysts
of crime narrative and
mapping in approach researchers use
Barangay 2. Interview location
Gibraltar. using information
interview about crime
2. Problems events to
guide
encountered detect spatial
3. Transcribing
by the PNP patterns in
of the
in criminal
statements
conducting activity of the
via recording
crime said locations.
and taking
mapping at
down notes
Barangay
4. The
Gibraltar.
statement
3. Strategies will gather
employed by using
the PNP thematic
response to analysis
the problems
encountering
crime
mapping.

Figure 1. Paradigm of the Study

Objectives of the study:

The study aimed to determine the perceptions of police officers in BCPO Station
3 regarding Crime Mapping. More specially, seek to answer the following:

 To identify the importance of crime mapping as perceived by the police

officers
 To determine the problems encountered by the PNP in-conducting crime
mapping
 To evaluate the strategies employed by the PNP in response with the
problems

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The qualitative descriptive method is used in this study. According to Calderon

(2022) descriptive research involved the description, recording, analysis and
interpretation of the present nature, composition or processes of phenomena which
focused on prevailing conditions, or how a person, group or thing behaved or functions in
the present. It often involved some type of comparison or contrast. In other words,
descriptive research maybe defined as a purposive process of gathering, analyzing,
classifying and tabulating data about prevailing conditions, practices, beliefs, processes,
trends and cause effect relationships and then making adequate and accurate
interpretation about such data with or without the aid of statistical methods.

Population and Locale of the Study

The research study focused on the members of BCPO STATION 3. The

researchers used purposive sampling wherein the participants must meet a form of
requirement that fitted the purpose, problem, and objective of the study. The
requirements were stated below:

1. Police officer’s function must be related to Crime Mapping. Police officer’s that were
capable of identifying areas and times that were most susceptible to crime. The police
officer was closely linked with crime mapping prevention and resolution effort.

2. Police officers must at least have an experience of 2 years in service in relation to

crime mapping. Police officers with experience in crime mapping were better equipped to
collaborate effectively with other agencies and departments to address the issue of crime
in a given area.

3. Police officers must be currently assigned in Baguio City Police Office (BCPO)
Station 3. Police officer’s presence in police station was crucial to maintaining law order,
responding to emergencies conducting investigating, maintaining records, and providing
public information. It is an essential part of the functioning of the police department and
ensures the safety and security of citizens.
Data Gathering Tool

The research instrument used in this study was a pre-designed interview guide for
the police officers. The interview guide was a tool used by the researcher to collect data,
which was used to determine the effect of crime mapping in BCPO STATION 3, Baguio
City.

The interview guide was composed of open - ended questions that would
determine the importance of crime mapping, what were the problems encountered by the
PNP in conducting crime mapping and the strategies employed by the PNP response with
the problems encountered in conducting crime mapping.

Data Gathering Procedure

Before conducting the interview, the researchers’ sought the approval of adviser to gather
the data as well as the endorsement of the College of Criminal Justice Education Dean.

Upon grant of the request, the researchers approached the police officers together
with the letter to explain and inform the purpose of the study and the content of the
informed consent. After the participants had agreed, the researchers together with the
police officers set a date, time and venue of interview. The participant are interviewed
individually by the researchers using a semi-structured interview that didn’t strictly
follow formalized lift of questions. Instead, they would ask more open-ended questions.

During the face-to-face interview with the police officers of Police Station 3 in
Baguio City, ethical behavior is observed such as giving respect in obtaining the consent
of the participants before asking a question. The duration of the interview take 30
minutes to 1 hour ten participants.

Finally, after gathering data from the participants, the researchers organized and
transcribed the data collected.

Treatment of Data

The researchers adopted the thematic analysis. This process give more emphasis
to the events or the content of the narrative during the conversational exchange between
the researchers and the respondent.

Caulfield (2019) identifies six steps followed in the process of qualitative data
analysis. The first step was familiarization to get to know the data, second step was
coding, third step was generating themes we looked over the codes we’ve created,
identify patterns among them, and start coming up with themes, fourth steps was
reviewing themes to make sure that our themes were useful and accurate representation
of the data, fifth step was defining and naming themes time to name and define each
them, the last step was writing up we’ll write up our analysis of the data. Each transcript
is individually analyzed. Several readings of each transcript started with the initial would
then be coded to form emergent themes. This is repeated for each transcript before
searching for similarities.
Ethical Consideration

The researchers firstly asked permission to the respondents before conducting the
research. The researchers would not force the respondents to answer the questionnaire
and also made sure that all the personal information of the respondent would be
confidential.

The researchers also considered the five most observe qualitative research ethics
which are the obtaining inform consent, protecting confidentiality and privacy, showing
respect for participants, conducting appropriate data collection and analysis, and using
findings responsibly. By prioritizing these considerations, the researchers could ensure
that the research was conducted in a respectful, fair and responsible manner and produced
findings that could contribute to positive and more informed change in society.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Importance of crime mapping

Tracking Crime Locations

One (1) among the participants answered that one importance of crime mapping is
to track the location where crime committed.

Participant D said, “to know the place where crime usually transpire.”

Crime mapping is crucial because it visually displays where crimes typically

occur, allowing residents to identify dangerous areas. It helps determine the most
common times and places for crimes, improving safety measures. Crime mapping also
aids law enforcement in profiling criminals and identifying suspicious locations, enabling
them to focus on high-risk areas. By visualizing crime hotspots, it provides a clear
understanding of crime patterns, facilitating better-informed actions to enhance
community safety.

In support, according to Chainey and Ratcliffe's (2005) study highlights that

crime mapping plays a crucial role in crime prevention by providing visual
representations of crime patterns and hotspots. It enables law enforcement agencies and
communities to identify high-crime areas, understand crime trends, and allocate resources
effectively. By analyzing spatial and temporal crime data, crime mapping helps in
developing targeted crime prevention strategies and enhancing situational awareness
among residents.

Crime Prevention

One (1) the participants said that crime mapping is important in crime prevention.

Participant E said, “Proactive measures are being taken to solve /prevent crimes
on every specific area.”
 It denotes that crime mapping is important because it helps in preventing crime.
By identifying high-risk areas and understanding where and when crimes are likely to
occur, authorities can take proactive measures to deter criminal activity. This includes
deploying resources effectively, increasing patrols, and implementing targeted
interventions to reduce crime rates in specific locations. Ultimately, crime mapping
enables law enforcement to strategically allocate resources and focus efforts where they
are most needed to prevent crimes before they happen.

In corroboration, the study by Braga, et.al., (2011) supports the utilization of

crime mapping as a valuable tool for crime prevention, particularly in informing hotspot
policing strategies that effectively address crime hotspots and improve community safety.

Community Engagement

One (1) the participant answers that community engagement is one of the
important of crime mapping.

Participant I said, “crime mapping empowers communities and law enforcement

agencies to work together to address crime.”

Sharing information about crime patterns and locations, crime mapping helps
communities become more aware of local safety issues. This awareness enables them to
work together with law enforcement to develop effective strategies for crime prevention,
such as targeted awareness campaigns and community engagement activities. Ultimately,
crime mapping empowers both groups to take proactive measures that can lead to safer
neighborhoods and reduced crime rates.

In support, the study by Skogan (2006) supports the role of crime mapping in
empowering communities to address local safety issues collaboratively with law
enforcement, thereby contributing to effective crime prevention and enhancing
community resilience against crime.

Collaboration and Data Sharing

One (1) the participant said that one of the importance of crime is mapping is
collaboration and data sharing

Participant G said, “it serves as a powerful tool for enhancing collaboration

between researcher and agencies by providing a common platform for data driven
analysis.”

Providing a common platform for analyzing crime data, crime mapping enables
agencies to form partnerships and improve their understanding of crime patterns. This
collaboration allows for more informed decision-making, strategic planning, and the
development of effective crime prevention measures. Overall, crime mapping enhances
efficiency and effectiveness in addressing crime by leveraging shared data and insights
from diverse stakeholders.
 In corroboration, Mazerolle et al. (2013) examine the impact of regular beat
meetings between police officers and community members in inner-city neighborhoods.
These meetings serve as a platform for sharing crime data, discussing local safety
concerns, and developing collaborative crime prevention strategies. Crime mapping is
utilized to visualize crime patterns and trends, providing a common understanding of
crime issues among stakeholders.

Deploying Resources Where They're Needed

One (1) the participant answered that one of the importance of crime mapping is
deploying resources where they’re they need.

Participant H said, “crime mapping will define how many police officer will
deploy in a particular beat or particular time.”

Analyzing crime data and identifying hotspots, law enforcement can allocate
officers strategically to areas where crimes are more likely to occur. This proactive
approach enhances public safety by ensuring that law enforcement is present where it is
most needed, thereby deterring crime and improving response times. Ultimately, crime
mapping supports efficient resource management and targeted crime prevention efforts to
enhance community security.

In support, Tewksbury and Zgoba (2010) provide empirical evidence showing

that targeted deployment of resources based on crime mapping analysis leads to
reductions in crime rates. Their findings support the idea that proactive policing
strategies, facilitated by crime mapping, contribute to enhanced community security and
crime prevention efforts.

Crime Control and Management

One (1) the participants said that crime control and management is one of the
importance of crime mapping.

Participant A said. “Easily locating for the possible suspect; managing controlling
in an area.”

Using crime mapping, authorities can easily locate potential suspects and
strategically deploy resources to deter criminal activity. This approach helps in proactive
crime prevention and enhances the overall safety and security of communities by
targeting efforts where they are most needed.

In support, Braga et al. (2014) reviewed multiple studies that employed crime
mapping techniques to identify hot spots and implement targeted policing strategies.
Their findings indicate that hot spots policing significantly reduces crime in targeted
areas compared to control locations. The use of crime mapping allows law enforcement
agencies to concentrate resources effectively where they are most needed, leading to
crime deterrence and improved safety outcomes.
Challenges by the police officers

Specific problem number two presents the challenges faced by the police officers
in deploying crime mapping.

No Internet Access

One (1) the participants said that having no Internet access have been then
challenge in deploying crime mapping.

Participant G said, “Data quality and availability, technological infrastructure.”

The lack of internet connection poses a significant challenge for the Philippine
National Police (PNP) in deploying crime mapping. Without reliable internet access,
officers may face difficulties in accessing and updating real-time crime data, hindering
their ability to effectively use crime mapping tools for decision-making and strategic
deployment of resources. This limitation can impact the overall efficiency and
responsiveness of law enforcement efforts aimed at addressing and preventing crime in
communities.

In corroborate, a study entitled “The Impact of Technological Challenges on

Crime Mapping Effectiveness: A Case Study of Law Enforcement Agencies in
Developing Countries”, investigates how technological limitations, including lack of
internet connectivity, affect the effectiveness of crime mapping tools in law enforcement
agencies across developing countries. It explores case studies and empirical data from
various regions to assess how inadequate internet access impedes the deployment and
utilization of crime mapping technologies. The findings highlight that without reliable
internet connectivity, law enforcement officers struggle to access real-time crime data,
update maps, and make informed decisions. As a result, the efficiency and responsiveness
of crime prevention efforts are compromised, impacting community safety and security.

Knowledge Gap

One (1) the participants answered that insufficient training is a challenge for them
for they lack in knowledge.

Participant A said, “Lack of training”

Police officers may not have sufficient knowledge or skills to effectively use
crime mapping tools and technologies. This could hinder their ability to interpret crime
data, make informed decisions based on mapping analysis, and utilize mapping software
efficiently. Without proper training, law enforcement personnel may struggle to leverage
crime mapping for strategic deployment of resources, crime prevention initiatives, and
overall improvement of public safety efforts.

In support, a study entitled "Training Needs Assessment for Crime Analysts in

Law Enforcement Agencies", supports the notion that inadequate training can hinder law
enforcement officers' ability to utilize crime mapping tools effectively. It emphasizes the
need for ongoing training and professional development to enhance officers' capabilities
in leveraging mapping technologies for informed decision-making and efficient resource
allocation in crime prevention efforts.

Community Trust Issues

One (1) the participants said that they also face challenges in come to community
trust issues.

Participant I said, “Residents may hesitate to report crimes, or cooperative with

the police, due to fear of retaliation from perpetrators.”

Challenges related to community trust and cooperation can hinder the Philippine
National Police (PNP) in effectively deploying crime mapping. If residents hesitate to
report crimes or cooperate with the police due to fear of retaliation from criminals, it can
lead to under reporting of incidents. This lack of accurate and comprehensive data can
limit the effectiveness of crime mapping efforts, as the data used may not fully reflect the
true extent and nature of crime in communities. Therefore, building trust and encouraging
cooperation from the community are crucial for overcoming these challenges and
enhancing the usefulness of crime mapping in law enforcement strategies.

In corroboration, Broken Windows Theory suggests that small signs of disorder

and low-level crime can erode community trust in law enforcement. When residents
perceive that minor offenses are not addressed, they may be less likely to cooperate with
police or report more serious crimes, fearing that their concerns will not be taken
seriously or addressed effectively. This lack of cooperation can undermine the accuracy
and completeness of crime data collected for mapping purposes (Wilson & Kelling
1982).

Strategies employed by the PNP

Specific problem number 3 [resents the strategies employed by the PNP to

overcome the challenges in deploying the crime mapping.

Building Community Trust

One (1) the participants said that building community trust is one of their
strategies in overcoming the challenge for the to successfully implement the crime
mapping.

Participant D said. “Continued engagement to the barangay officials and others

agencies, the establishment, store owner and other groups within the area to get trust from
the community.”

The Philippine National Police (PNP) employs strategies focused on community

engagement and outreach. These strategies include conducting barangay visitations,
establishing police visibility in their assigned areas, engaging with barangay officials and
community groups, and organizing community forums and gatherings. These efforts are
aimed at building trust, addressing community concerns, and fostering positive
relationships between law enforcement and residents. By actively listening to residents
and addressing misconceptions, the PNP aims to enhance cooperation, improve
communication, and strengthen community partnerships in efforts to maintain peace and
order.

In support, according to the United States (1990) community policing theory

emphasizes proactive engagement between law enforcement agencies and the
communities they serve. Community policing aims to establish strong partnerships,
enhance trust, and involve community members in identifying and solving local public
safety issues. By fostering collaboration through activities like barangay visitations,
police visibility, and community forums, the PNP adopts principles of community
policing to address concerns, build relationships, and improve overall community safety
and well-being.

Finding Crime Hotspot

One (1) the participants said that one of their strategies that they employ is finding
the crime hotpots.

Participant E said, “geographic and demographic profiling within our AOR”

Using geographic and demographic profiling, as well as real-time mapping, the

PNP aims to understand and target these hotpots effectively. This approach helps them
allocate resources efficiently, deploy personnel where they are most needed, and
implement proactive measures to reduce crime in specific locations. Overall, focusing on
crime hotpots is a strategic method for the PNP to enhance public safety and crime
prevention efforts.

In support, by applying Geographic Information System (GIS), crime can be geo-

located (usually by street address) to reveal significant trends, patterns, and relationships.
This supports crime analysis, enforcement planning, and more effective resource
allocation. As a pilot test, one year of crime data was integrated with the street database
using PSJ boundaries as the geo-referencing units (Pryjomko, n,d).

Additionally, crime pattern theory (Rengert, Piquero, & Jones, 1999) one
interesting application of this theory is geographic profiling, which attempts to narrow
the scope of police investigations by using information on repeated crimes to identify the
awareness space of a repeat criminal.

Embracing Technological Advancements

One (1) the participants answered that embracing technological advancement

have been one of their strategies to face the challenges they encountered.

Participant G said, “stay abreast of technological advancement and adopt advance

tools and technologies for preventing cybercrime”
 By continuously updating their knowledge and skills in technology, the PNP can
enhance their capabilities in addressing modern crime challenges, ensuring they remain
effective and proactive in their law enforcement efforts.

In corroboration, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by Fred Davis (1989) is

a relevant theory that can be applied to the idea that by continuously updating their
knowledge and skills in technology, the PNP can enhance their capabilities in addressing
modern crime challenges.

Moreover, in a study entitled “The Impact of Technology on Policing Strategy in

the 21st Century" by the National Institute of Justice (2016). found that law enforcement
agencies that invest in technology and provide continuous training to their officers are
better equipped to handle modern crime challenges. These agencies reported improved
efficiency in crime detection and response, better data management, and enhanced
community relations.

Crime Prevention Education

One (1) the participants said that by engaging the community in crime prevention
education has been their strategy.

Participant A said, “By conducting lecture, distribution of IEC materials.”

Conducting lectures and distributing informational materials, such as IEC

(Information, Education, and Communication) materials, the PNP aims to raise
awareness among the community about how to prevent crime. This proactive approach
helps empower residents with knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their
communities, thereby enhancing overall safety and reducing the incidence of crime.

In support, Routine Activity Theory by Lawrence E. Cohen and Marcus Felson

(1979), this theory posits that crime occurs when three elements converge in time and
space: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian.
Public education campaigns can influence all three elements by reducing target suitability
through awareness and increasing capable guardianship through informed community
action.

Furthermore, Social Learning Theory (Bandura A.1963), this theory emphasizes

how individuals learn through observation and modeling. In the context of crime
prevention, it suggests that people can adopt crime prevention behaviors by observing
others, including through educational campaigns that model effective safety practices.

In overall summary, the critical role of crime mapping and various strategies
employed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) to enhance public safety and crime
prevention. Crime mapping is shown to be crucial for identifying crime hotspots,
understanding crime patterns, and deploying resources effectively to deter criminal
activity. However, challenges such as internet connectivity, training deficiencies among
officers, and issues with community trust can impact the effectiveness of these efforts.
The PNP's proactive approaches, including community engagement, geographic
profiling, and technological advancements, aim to mitigate these challenges and improve
overall law enforcement effectiveness. These efforts underscore the importance of
strategic planning, collaboration, and continuous improvement in addressing modern
crime challenges and ensuring community security.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION

Conclusions

Crime mapping in Barangay Gibraltar is a crucial tool for enhancing public safety
and community well-being. By tracking crime locations, authorities can pinpoint, hotpots,
enabling more effective prevention strategies. Community involvement through
accessible crime data promotes share responsibility and vigilance. Enhanced
collaboration and data sharing among agencies and stakeholders lead coordinate efforts.
Resource deployment in critical areas ensures efficient use. With effective crime control,
a safer environment is achieved. Leveraging crime mapping insights, the community can
unite for proactive crime prevention

The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Barangay Gibraltar face significant

challenges in conducting effective crime mapping. The lack of internet access hampers
the ability to collect, share, and analyze crime data efficiently, limiting the effectiveness
of crime mapping efforts. Additionally, a knowledge gap in the use of crime mapping
technologies and methodologies among some officers poses a barrier to maximizing the
potential benefits of these tools. Furthermore, issues of community trust impede
collaboration and the flow of information between residents and law enforcement, which
is crucial for accurate and comprehensive crime mapping. Addressing these challenges
requires concerted efforts to improve infrastructure, provide targeted training, and build
stronger relationships with the community. By overcoming these obstacles, the PNP can
enhance their crime mapping capabilities, ultimately leading to better crime prevention
and a safer Barangay Gibraltar.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) have implemented a range of strategies to

overcome the challenges encountered during crime mapping in Barangay Gibraltar. By
prioritizing building community trust, they foster stronger relationships and encourage
the flow of critical information between residents and law enforcement. Identifying and
focusing on crime hotspots allows for targeted interventions, maximizing the impact of
their efforts. Embracing technological advancements enhances their ability to collect,
analyze, and share crime data more effectively, bridging the knowledge gap and
improving overall efficiency. Additionally, promoting crime prevention education
empowers the community with the knowledge and tools needed to contribute to safety
initiatives. These strategies collectively enhance the PNP's crime mapping capabilities,
leading to more effective crime prevention and control, and ultimately, a safer
environment for all residents of Barangay Gibraltar.
Recommendations

Based on the conclusions, the following are recommended: the PNP members
address the issue of internet connectivity by collaborating with local telecommunications
providers or government agencies to enhance infrastructure in the area. This would
ensure reliable access to real time crime data and improve the effectiveness of crime
mapping efforts.

1. The PNP should invest in continuous training programs for PNP personnel to improve
their knowledge and skill in crime mapping technologies effectively. This could include
workshop, seminar and certifications that focus on data analysis, geographic profiling,
and crime prevention strategies.

2. The PNP should foster partnerships with local government units, barangay officials,
business owners, and community organization to promote data sharing and collaborate
efforts, in crime prevention. This multi-sectorial approach can leverage resources and
expertise to address crime more effectively.

3. The police officers of BCPO Station 3 should improve their skills through active
engagement with the equipment, in conducting crime mapping, and hands-on learning
experience in the crime mapping facility. By thoroughly familiarizing themselves with
the various tools and technologies used in crime analysis.

4. The criminology students of BCU should lead to a new insights and innovations in
crime mapping, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary research projects by
providing a platform for researchers to publish their findings, present their work at
conferences, and engage with the wider scientific community.

5. The future researchers may benefit from a well-equipped crime mapping facility by
conducting advanced research, collaborations with other institutions, and contributions to
advancements in the field of criminal justice. Researchers can carry out information's and
analyses more effectively, leading to more accurate and reliable results.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The researchers would like to extend their gratitude to the groups and individuals
who contributed and helped them in the completion of this research paper.

To the Almighty God for the blessings of strength, knowledge, wisdom, and
guidance He bestowed upon them to accomplish this study. All things will not be
possible without Him.

A sincere thanks to Dr. Ramon Kindipan Sr, the Dean of the College of Criminal
Justice Education of Baguio Central University for inspiring them to be positive despite
the upsets and difficulties.
 The researchers wish to express their feelings and thought to Ma’am Beca May
Pidlao Palitayan the adviser of this research. The researchers are thankful for her full
support advice, and love as the research progressed.

The researchers are also immensely grateful to the panel members Sir Dr.Ramon
Kindipan Sr, Ma’am Rowena B. Gagno, Ma’am Princess joy Moyaen, Sir Ernesto B.
Bucalan Jr for their valuable inputs and recommendations on an earlier version of the
manuscript. They were a great help in enhancing the researcher paper.

The researchers were also thankful to the panel members for the significant
support and insights that help the researchers to successful finish their study.

Lastly to our parents, friends, teachers, guardians and others who helped and
contributed in some other ways. The researchers enormously grateful for the unending
support, encouragement, love, patience, and full attention especially their prayers to
complete our work in a successful way.

G.B.B

S.L.N

W.A.T
 REFERENCE

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 Appendix A

May 24, 2024

PCOL FRANCISCO B BULWAYAN, JR
City Director
Baguio City Police Office

THRU: PMAJ BERNABE A CHAMO, JR

Acting Station Commander
BCPO Station 3

Dear sir,
Greetings!
I hope this letter finds you well. We, the undersigned criminology students, are writing to inform
you about a research project that we are conducting and to request your assistance in the data
gathering.
We are conducting a research entitled “CRIME MAPPING: PERCEPTIONS OF POLICE
OFFICERS IN BCPO STATION 3”, in compliance of the subject Criminological Research 2
(Thesis Writing And Presentation).
We would like to ask permission from your good office to conduct interview with the personnels
of BCPO Station 3 assigned to crime mapping division, if approved. Rest assured that anonymity
as well as their responses will be kept confidential and be utilized for an academic purpose only.
Thank you very much for considering this request. Your cooperation and support would be of
great assistance in the successful completion of this research project.
Truly yours,
Stephanie Nahpadan,
Lead Researcher

Noted by: Approved by:

Beca May Pidlao-Palitayan Dr. Ramon L. Kindipan Sr.
Research Adviser Dean, CCJE
 Appendix B

May 24, 2024

PMAJ BERNABE A. CHAMO JR.

Station Commander of Police Station 3
Pacdal Circle., Baguio City

Dear Sir,

Greetings!

I hope this letter finds you well. We the undersigned criminology students are writing to inform
you about a research project that we are conducting and to request your assistance in the data
gathering.

The research, titled “CRIME MAPPING: PERCEPTIONS OF POLICE OFFICERS IN

BCPO – STATION 3”, this study is important is presently conducted in compliance of the
subject CRIMINOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2 (THESIS WRITING AND PRESENTATION).

We would like to ask permission from your good office to conduct interview with the personnels
of BCPO – Station 3 (Pacdal), if approved. Rest assured that their responses will be kept
confidential and be utilized for an academic purpose only.

Thank you very much for considering this request. Your cooperation and support would be of
great assistance in the successful completion of this research project.

Truly yours,

Stephanie Nahpadan,
Lead Researcher

Noted by: Approved by:

Beca may Pidlao Palitayan Ramon L. Kindipan Sr., PhD

Research Adviser CCJE Dean
 Appendix D

INTERVIEW GUIDE

CRIME MAPPING: PERCEPTIONS OF POLICE OFFICERS IN BCPO –

STATION 3

I. PROFILE OF PARTICIPANTS

a. Years of service in crime mapping: ___________________

b. Are you currently in crime mapping division? ☐ Yes ☐ No

II. IMPORTANCE OF CRIME MAPPING

a. What are your thoughts on the importance of crime mapping for police operations
and planning?

b. How does crime mapping assist in community policing and problem-solving

efforts?

c. In what ways can crime mapping increase public awareness about neighborhood
crime problems?

d. How does crime mapping facilitate partnerships with researchers and other
agencies?

III. CHALLENGES BY THE POLICE OFFICERS

a. What are the biggest obstacles you face in effectively conducting crime mapping?

b. How do you navigate challenges related to technology and cybercrime in your

crime prevention strategies?

c. How do you perceive the community's cooperation with law enforcement in crime
prevention efforts, and what challenges arise from this interaction?

d. What resources or support do you feel are lacking in your efforts to prevent crime
effectively?
IV. STRATEGIES EMPLOYED BY THE PNP

a. What specific crime mapping techniques or technologies do the police personnel

utilize in BCP0-Station 3 to analyze and predict crime patterns?

b. How do the police personnel in BCP0-Station 3 integrate community input or

feedback into their crime mapping strategies to enhance community policing efforts?

c. How does the perception of police officers among the community members in
BCP0-Station 3 impact the effectiveness of crime mapping initiatives and overall crime
prevention efforts?

d. What measures do the police personnel in BCP0-Station 3 take to address any

negative perceptions or mistrust of police officers that may hinder community
engagement and cooperation in crime mapping and policing activities?
 BIONOTE OF RESEARCHERS

Greg B. Bomongal, Filipino, single, born on November 11, 2000 at Sumadel.

Tinglayan, Kalinga, and currently residing at Southern Cross Virac, Itogon Benguet. His
parents are Henry A. Bomongal and Evelyn D. Bomongal- Baawa. At present, he is
studying Bachelor of Science in Criminology at Baguio Central University, Magsaysay
Campus, Baguio City. He finished his secondary level at Saint Louis High School of
Balatoc on 2017 and at Virac Elementary School on 2013 for his primary studies.

Stephanie L. Nahpadan, Filipino, single, born on December 17, 2000 at Ifugao

Village Diffun Quirino and currently residing at Purok 07, Ifugao Village Diffon Quirino.
Her parents are Nicasio Nahpadan and Corazon Nahpadan. At present, she is studying
Bachelor of Science in Criminology at Baguio Central University, Magsaysay Campus,
Baguio City. She finished her secondary level at Cabarroguis National High School on
2018 and at Bikibik Elementary School on 2013 for her primary studies.

Wendell A. Tekla, Filipino, single, born on August 2, 2001at Baguio City, and
currently residing at 024 Balenben, Irisan Baguio City. His parents are Crispin B. Tekla
and Freda Irene B. Aping. At present, he is studying Bachelor of Science in Criminology
at Baguio Central University, Magsaysay Campus, Baguio City. He finished his
secondary level at AMA Computer College on 2021 and at Elpidio R. Quirino
Elementary School on 2013 for his primary studies.