Barangay Police Officers and the Residents’ Perceptions on the Use of Less-Lethal Weapons for Crime Control in Selected Barangays of Calauag, Quezon

This study determined the perception of barangay police officers and residents on the effectiveness and advantages of these less-lethal weapons (LLW) in crime control. More so, the comparative understanding of the barangaypolice officers' and the residents' perceptions on the effectiveness and advantages of the less-lethal weapon were explored. The descriptive-comparative research design was utilized in the data gathering using a survey questionnaire with the respondents. The data gathered were analyzed using tables as well as stastical tools of frequency, percentage,, and t-test. The study's key findings revealed batons as the most efficient LLWs for crime control. followed by Tasers, pepper sprays, and , significantly less frequently, water cannons. Inerestingly, both barangay police and residents overwhelmingly favored LLWs. as advantageous in mitigating crime and incidents. Overall, the data suggests a remarkable convergence in their perceptions of LLWs' effectiveness in crime control, indicating that their views on this matter are largely aligned. Further exploration of less-lethal weapons' role in de-escalation and harm reduction within the Philippine law enforcement ecosystem could offer valuable insights for policy development and training programs aimed at enhancing public safety while upholding human rights.