Abstract
This research examines the efficacy of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) monitoring in reducing crime rates in Talibon, Bohol, a rural municipality in the Philippines. While CCTV is extensively used in urban environments for crime deterrence, its efficacy in rural locations, characterized by lower population density and distinct crime patterns, requires more investigation. This study investigates the correlation between CCTV monitoring and crime decrease, as well as the attitudes of citizens and law enforcement personnel. The research used a quantitative descriptive-correlational methodology, gathering data from 120 respondents using structured questionnaires. The data were evaluated using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation to assess CCTV's perceived efficacy and its influence on crime rates. The results indicate that CCTV is seen as very beneficial in preventing criminal behavior, improving public safety, and aiding law enforcement in collecting evidence. The deterrent of prospective criminals and the real-time surveillance of public areas were seen as having the most significant influence. A robust positive correlation was seen between the perceived efficiency of CCTV and its impact on crime reduction, indicating that as views of CCTV's efficacy rise, its effect on diminishing crime rates concurrently intensifies. The research finds that CCTV monitoring is vital for crime prevention in Talibon, considerably enhancing community safety. It is recommended that public awareness programs be implemented and periodic reviews of CCTV systems be conducted to improve their efficacy in rural regions. These findings will assist policymakers and local authorities in using CCTV technology to improve crime prevention in rural areas.
