Renante C. Napalla, MPA, MSCJ, Atty. Dodelon F. Sabijon, PhD
Abstract:
This study explored the lived experiences of Chiefs of Police in managing anti-drug programs in the Second
District of Bohol, Philippines, with a focus on enhancing grassroots-level drug prevention strategies. Conducted
from January 2024 to December 2024, the study aimed to examine three key aspects: the experiences of police
chiefs in managing anti-drug programs, how they addressed challenges in implementation, and their
aspirations for improved performance. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed, utilizing a
validated interview guide to facilitate in-depth interviews with ten (10) purposively selected Chiefs of Police who
met the inclusion criteria. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method for
phenomenological data analysis. Findings revealed both encouraging and challenging themes in managing anti-
drug initiatives. Positive experiences centered on community support and a sense of achievement, while
negative encounters were marked by budgetary constraints and the tactical use of technology by offenders. In
overcoming obstacles, informants highlighted inter-agency collaboration and strategic monitoring as critical.
Aspirations focused on sustained community engagement and access to professional development
opportunities to enhance leadership capacity. The study recommends stronger funding mechanisms, capacity-
building for police leadership, and multisectoral collaboration to reinforce anti-drug efforts at the local level.
Future research should examine the emotional and psychological impact of sustained anti-drug operations on
rural police managers and evaluate the long-term effectiveness of collaborative anti-drug strategies.
Keywords: Chiefs of Police, anti-drug programs, community engagement, collaborative strategies, rural law
enforcement, Colaizzi’s method, leadership development
1. Journal Description 2. Select Journal a. Declaration of Originality b. Select the Journal c. Paper Formatting d. Initial Manuscript Submission e. Peer Review Process f. Manuscript Revision g. Editing Services h. Final Manuscript Submission i. Acknowledgement to Publish j. Copyright Matters k. Inhouse Publication