Proficiency Enhancement Program on Geographic Information System, Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System Utilization for Selected Police Personnel

Abstract

Aims: This study evaluated the awareness and proficiency of police personnel in utilizing the Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS) and its impact on crime prevention strategies. Study Design:  Research and Development design. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted across various police stations in Davao City, specifically at PS1 Sta. Ana, PS4 Sasa, PS5 Buhangin, PS6 Bunawan, PS9 Tugbok, PS10 Calinan, PS11 Baguio, PS13 Bajada, PS14 Torres, PS15 Ecoland, PS16 Ma-a, PS17 Baliok, PS18 Mandug, PS19 Catigan/Eden, and PS20 Los Amigos. These stations were selected to provide a comprehensive perspective on the city's policing initiatives for the year 2023-2024. Methodology: The study assessed the awareness and proficiency levels of police personnel regarding CIRAS. Awareness was measured using an overall mean score, while proficiency was evaluated across key functions: crime trend analysis, crime hotspot identification, and crime mapping. The correlation between awareness and proficiency was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. A Proficiency Enhancement Program was developed and validated based on criteria including acceptability, appropriateness, content, relevance, and usability. Results: Findings indicate a very high level of awareness, with an overall mean of 4.25, highlighting familiarity with system operations. Proficiency levels varied across key functions: crime trend analysis (8.46, very high), crime hotspot identification (7.57, high), and crime mapping (6.57, high). A significant positive correlation (r = 0.363, p = 0.013) was found between awareness and proficiency in crime hotspot identification, but no statistically significant relationship was observed in crime trend analysis and crime mapping. The Proficiency Enhancement Program received high to very high validation ratings in acceptability (4.26), appropriateness (4.60), content (4.13), relevance (4.26), and usability (4.20).