INTRODUCTION

Rationale of the Study

Traffic Management is the process of adjusting or adapting the use of an existing

road system to meet specified objectives without resorting to substantial new road

construction (“Urban Traffic Management”, n.d.). Traffic management had pillars that

help for the solution of traffic problems that road users encountered day by day which

comprised traffic enforcement, traffic education, traffic engineering, traffic

ecology/environment and traffic economy. It is a term used to embody the activities

undertaken by a highway transportation agency to improve roadway system safety,

efficiency, and effectiveness for both providers and consumers of transportation

services (Sigua, 2008).

It also refers to all agencies having responsibilities for ascertaining traffic flow

requirements, such as planning, funding, construction and/or maintaining public facilities

for such movement. Further, it also refers to all agencies responsible for licensing,

approving, restricting, stopping, prohibiting or controlling the use of these facilities (De

Castro et. al, 2011).

Ensuring the safety of drivers, commuters, and the general public is a primary

responsibility of the local government unit, with traffic management being a crucial

aspect. The local government is faced with escalating challenges such as road

accidents and crimes that often occur on roads, which directly impact the effectiveness

of traffic systems. Planning initiatives to address these challenges typically originate

from the local legislature and executive branches. Subsequently, the implementation of

these plans falls under the purview of traffic personnel (Elac, et al., 2014).

However, despite the ongoing progress, some residents remain unaware of the

standards of traffic management, primarily due to the absence of widespread

technological advancements and the lack of political will from the Local Government

Unit (LGU). The effectiveness of traffic management relies heavily on the presence of

traffic personnel, such as municipal traffic enforcers and police visibility, tasked with

overseeing road management and issuing citations for violations.

As per Police Executive Master Sergeant Emerito Paulinio of Loon Police

Station, certain personnel are assigned the crucial responsibility of ensuring orderly

compliance with road rules and safety policies. They also play a pivotal role in

maintaining smooth traffic flow amidst the municipality's major traffic conditions.

Additionally, an area of concern for newly appointed Traffic Management Organization

(TMO) personnel is how to handle interactions with drivers, as some motorists may

attempt to intimidate them while performing their duties.

In relation to this, this study aim to interpret perceptions of Loonanons on the

traffic management in upholding order on the national highway in Loon, Bohol, as

perceived by the local community. The study further assesses the current state of traffic

conditions and identifies the primary causes of congestion in the area.

Theoretical Background

Theories
 This study is mainly anchored on these following theories namely : Public Trust

Theory by Tyler (2006), Sensemaking Theory by Weick (1995), and the System

Theory.

According to Public Trust Theory suggests that public trust in government

institutions and officials is crucial for cooperation and compliance with laws and

regulations (Tyler, 2006).

According to Sensemaking Theory, individuals interpret and make sense of their

experiences by constructing mental frameworks that help them understand complex

phenomena (Weick, 1995).

Explanations of the System Theory are based on man-environment adjustments

and maladjustments (Muhlrad et al 2005). The components of the theory are the

environment, the means of transport (vehicles) and the behavior of man (Krug et al

2000). The environment component comprises of the natural and the built environments

and transport networks. The means of transport component comprises of the volume

and quality of vehicles on the modes of transport. The behavior of man component

comprises of demographic characteristic of road users (age, sex, education, socio-

economic status, stage in life cycle), people’s perceptions of risk and people’s general

behavior on the streets. Integrated in the systems theory is a system of highway codes

and enforcement mechanisms designed to ensure that road users adhere to the

controls and regulations of traffic flow for maintaining road traffic safety. Comprehensive

traffic management should be sufficient to maintain road traffic safety (Trondheim,

2006).
 The concept of Femi (2006) that there can be no effective regulations and control

to set operational standard in the road without the accompaniment of enforcement

measures. This command to compel obedience of people to a law, regulation or

command is backed by the enforcers of law. In a situation where various efficiency,

safety, and environmental concerns in a chaotic and urbanized city, aside from the

penalty imposed by the law, the effectiveness of those tasked to impose the law is also

equated.

Legal Bases

This study is grounded in emergent for legal framework and regulations in

managing the traffic conditions, highlighting the traffic personnels in dealing to

effectiveness of traffic management sytem and its impact to the motorists.

Republic Act (RA) 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code

is a law that lays the groundwork for all Philippine traffic laws and regulations. The traffic

laws are governed by Law No. 22 of 2009 on traffic and road transportation, which

replaced Law No. 14 of 1992. The purpose for this law is for public legal awareness and

the strict implementation of existing laws on road traffic management. It is also

important to achieve uniformity in ordinances and traffic laws to ensure consistency and

safety in the conduct of highway traffic.

Commonwealth Act 146, otherwise known as Public Service Act, rests on the

regulatory body (LTFRB) the power to compel any public service provider to furnish
safe, adequate, and proper service as regards the manner of furnishing the same as

well as the maintenance of necessary materials and equipment.

Executive Order (EO) 125 reorganized the then Ministry of Transportation and

Communications into a Department and defined its powers and functions, including the

establishment of the Land Transportation Office as the sectoral agency responsible for

implementing and carrying out policies, rules, and regulations governing the land

transportation system of the country.

Executive Order (EO) 202 created the Land Transportation Franchising and

Regulatory Board with the main function of regulating the land transport industry

pursuant to the Public Service Act.

Republic Act 6975 established the Department of the Interior and Local

Government (DILG), including the creation of the PNP under which the Traffic

Management Group has been reorganized as the traffic enforcement arm of the PNP

covering national roads.

Lastly, Republic Act No. 917 or the Philippine Highway Act of 1953 prohibits

highways, bridges, or rights-of-way covered by RA 4136 from being obstructed, or from

being usurped or converted to private use. The act also prohibits the removal or

tampering of road infrastructure such as markers, signs, and other road-side facilities.

The purpose of this provision is for the administration, maintenance, improvement,

reconstruction, and construction expenditures on highway projects; the classification of

highways; and the widths, acquisition, and use of rights-of-way.

Related Literature and Related Studies

There are several literature and studies to be reviewed that can be support the

perception of loonanons on the traffic management on national higway of Brgy. Cogon

Norte, Loon, Bohol.

In the year 2022, Dr. Rohit Baluja authored this significant book titled 'The Road

Traffic Legislation - India.' As the title implies, this book serves as a comprehensive

compilation of crucial sections from various legal documents, including The Motor

Vehicles Act, 2019, The Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, The Motor Vehicles

(Driving) Regulations, 2017, and Notifications from the Ministry of Road Transport &

Highways, along with relevant sections from The Indian Penal Code. This publication

plays a pivotal role in enhancing road safety by providing updated legislative insights

and fostering awareness among the public.

Mr. Praveenchandra Shetty (2019), the author of this comprehensive Road

Safety Guide, offers a practical handbook that sheds light on a pressing issue. He

delves into the often-overlooked problem of improperly designed and poorly constructed

roads and highways, which have been passive contributors to road traffic accidents,

without fault on the part of road users. Before writing this book, Mr. Shetty embarked on

a remarkable journey, covering 19,110 kilometers in just 58 days along outer peripheral

National Highways to gather firsthand information and ground realities of India's road

infrastructure. He categorized these road defects as passive causes of road traffic

accidents and documented them, marking a pioneering effort in India.

 "The Rules of the Road" by C.B. Jones (2021) is a literary journey that promised

to be a thrilling ride, something between Joe Lansdale and Stephen King. However,

readers wandered down the lanes of C.B. Jones' debut novel, "The Rules of the Road",

fancying mystery and creepiness...and, certainly, there is an allure, an introductory siren

call, that promises a tale weaving around a mysterious radio broadcast, but then

readers hit a temporary roadblock as they navigated through a repetitive narrative

landscape. Right, after an engaging and enigmatic opening, the narrative began to

meander, and subsequent chapters seemed to tread the same path repeatedly. It felt as

though the story was stuck in a perpetual loop, leaving me yearning for some fresh

developments. The chapters, each a traffic signal, seem to flash the same color

repeatedly, causing some sort of déjà vu. Yet, amidst the somewhat doppelganger

chapters, readers uncovered a gem - Chapter 12, that is. Here, readers witnessed an

empathetic portrayal of a struggling rock band.

According to International Journal of Scientific Research and Management

(2023), the objective of a traffic officer is to ensure the safe and free flow of traffic on

public roads, as well as law enforcement, education, and assistance. The traffic officer

performs duties within the municipal boundaries. Traffic officers test prospective drivers

for licenses and inspect vehicles for roadworthiness. They control traffic and ensure

effective traffic flow and enforce laws and regulations pertaining to road traffic.

Sometimes they provide evidence in traffic court cases. In some provinces the duties of

the traffic officer and the provincial inspector are combined. In others, a distinction is

made between the traffic officer and the provincial inspector. Traffic officers control
traffic and patrol roads and highways. Provincial inspectors protect the public from

malpractice, particularly in commerce and ensure that trading hours are kept.

Maraois, et.al (2019) said that workers such as police officers are exposed to

many hazardous situations while performing traffic duties, which renders them

vulnerable to work accidents. Such a dangerous work context can lead to high stress

levels. This is conducive to performance impairment and, consequently, to high-risk

situations in which safety, for both workers and road users, may be jeopardized. It then

seems important to better understand the stress experienced by traffic workers to

ultimately improve road safety. Hence, the current study aims at investigating whether

work context could be associated with the stress levels of police officers doing traffic

duties on foot. Nineteen police officers in Quebec City and Montreal, Canada,

performed traffic duties on several sites (including constructions ones) while their

physiological state was measured by a wearable sensor harness. Change in subjective

stress was measured every 15 min. Characteristics of the environment were also noted

for every working site, which permitted to perform hierarchical cluster classifications to

assess each site's complexity. Results show that stress levels were significantly lower

for less complex sites. Interestingly, traffic and safety measures—identified through

automated computer vision—differ depending on the site complexity and were generally

associated with measures of stress. Taken together, these results suggest that the

context in which pedestrian workers perform traffic duties, that is the environment and

the higher-risk events to which they are exposed, can lead to higher levels of stress.

Implications for road safety are discussed considering these results.

 According to Macalibo, C. K., & Rosales, P. P. (n.d.), they focused on

understanding and determining the perception of the community on the performance of

traffic enforcers in connection to the attribution of their job. Researchers conducted a

survey and collected some data regarding the role of Traffic Enforcer on main roads.

The researchers determined what is causing these problems to traffic officers while they

are on duty. The researchers used the Quantitative approach and utilized a descriptive

type of method in conducting the study. The respondents have a total of fifty (50) traffic

enforcers coming from different areas of Lucena City. The data collected will be

described using mean and standard deviation. Weighted mean will be the traffic

enforces performance and the training they need to enhance their knowledge. In terms

of training that the traffic enforcers should attend are the training that familiarizes them

with the organizational mission, vision, rules and regulations and the working conditions.

Training about Traffic intersection conflicts, signs, and symbols and Traffic direction and

control.

Based on the study of Shaulin, N., & Faeique, A. (2023), the most controversial

issue for Bangladesh in the recent decade is traffic congestion in Dhaka city. The

problem of the city dwellers suffers most is traffic congestion which kills a huge amount

of time, severely affecting both the normalcy of life and the pace of the economy.

Effective traffic management largely depends on traffic police personnel. This study

explores the challenges of traffic police and recommends policy action to tackle them.

This study employs a qualitative methodology consisting of in-depth interviews and field

observations to understand the challenges faced by Dhaka City traffic police officers.

The study used a purposive sampling technique. The data was collected from both
primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected through the semi-structured

interview method. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed line by before

being subjected to thematic analysis. The study's findings reveal that traffic officials

confront numerous obstacles, including health concerns, poor coordination, a lack of

proper awareness of traffic rules among drivers and pedestrians, and inadequate

training The study's findings would provide policymakers with essential guidelines for

resolving traffic police concerns to protect the transportation system by controlling

traffic.

The study by Shaulin and Faeique (2023) focuses on the challenges faced by

traffic police officers in Dhaka City, particularly in addressing the issue of traffic

congestion, which has significant implications for the city's normalcy and economic

productivity. In contrast, the study on the perceptions of Loonanons regarding traffic

officers in Bohol examines community attitudes towards the roles of traffic officers in

maintaining order on the national highway. While both studies address the role of traffic

management in ensuring smooth transportation flow, they differ in their geographic

focus and the specific challenges faced by traffic officers, highlighting the importance of

localized approaches to addressing road safety concerns.

Yadav B, Bhusal S, K. C. A, Singh Pradhan PM (2023) intends to look for basis

of enhancement training, they have evaluated the performance of the traffic enforcer.

The author mentioned that policing is considered an extremely stressful, physically

demanding, and mentally challenging occupation. The growing population with an

increasing number of vehicles and the harsh working environment has made the work of

traffic police even more stressful. This qualitative study aims to examine work and
environment-related stressful factors among traffic police officials of Kathmandu Valley,

Nepal. This qualitative study used a thematic analysis approach. Face-to-face

interviews were conducted with different cadres of 15 traffic police personnel working in

Kathmandu Valley, Nepal for at least six months. The study adhered to the

Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) guideline. The findings

of this study are structured around five major themes- workload, work-life balance, basic

amenities, work environment and occupational health problems, and possible solutions

and suggestions. Most of the participants (10 out of 15) reported having work stress due

to the heavy workload and hazardous working conditions that had a significant impact

on their job performance and mental well-being. This study highlights the challenges

faced by traffic police officers in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. The findings suggest that

efforts should be made to improve the working environment of traffic police officers to

reduce the physical as well as mental burden among them. The occupational health and

safety (OHS) and mental well-being of traffic enforcers’ is a critical public health issue,

therefore, it should be on the agenda of policymakers, organizational leaders, and

stakeholders.

The study by Yadav et al. (2023) investigates the stressful factors faced by traffic

police officials in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, highlighting issues such as heavy workload,

hazardous working conditions, and their impact on job performance and mental well-

being. In contrast, the study on the perceptions of Loonanons regarding traffic officers in

Bohol examines community attitudes towards the roles of traffic officers in maintaining

order on the national highway. While both studies address the challenges faced by

traffic enforcers, they differ in their focus, with Yadav et al. focusing on the occupational
health and safety of traffic police officials in Nepal, while the Bohol study explores

community perceptions and interactions with traffic officers in a specific geographical

context.

Based on the study of Chenane, J. et. al (2020). Traffic stops, race, and

perceptions of fairness. Traffic stops are the most common reason for face-to-face

encounters between police officers and citizens. Contact with police can affect citizens’

behaviour toward the police, particularly when citizens perceive unfair treatment by

officers during these encounters. Yet, few studies have examined how experiencing a

traffic stop affects citizens’ decisions to seek assistance from police or report non-crime

emergencies. This study analysed data from the Police-Public Contact Survey (PPCS)

to examine (a) the relationship between experiencing traffic stops and calling police for

help and/or to report non-crime emergencies and (b) why perceptions of fairness and

reasons for the traffic stop might affect these outcomes across different racial/ethnic

categories. Results from multivariate logistic regression models show that citizens

stopped for traffic violations are significantly less likely to seek help from the police

and/or to report non-crime emergencies compared to those with other types of face-to-

face police contacts. Additionally, those who perceived unfair treatment during traffic

stops were less likely to report non-crime emergencies compared to those who felt the

police treated them fairly. The effects of perception of fairness and the reason for a stop

on reporting non-crime emergencies were significantly different among Hispanic citizens

compared to White citizens. Policy implications of the results are discussed and

recommendations for future research are provided.

 The study by Chenane et al. (2020) examines the relationship between traffic

stops, race, and perceptions of fairness, focusing on how these factors influence

citizens' decisions to seek assistance from police or report non-crime emergencies. In

contrast, the study on the perceptions of Loonanons regarding traffic officers in Bohol

explores community attitudes towards the roles of traffic officers in maintaining order on

the national highway. While both studies address interactions between citizens and law

enforcement, they differ in their specific focus, with Chenane et al. examining the impact

of traffic stops on citizens' behavior and perceptions, while the Bohol study investigates

community perceptions of traffic officers' roles within a specific geographical context.

According to the study of, Khaled Shaaban, (2017) entitled, "Assessment of

Drivers’ Perceptions of Various Police Enforcement Strategies and Associated Penalties

and Rewards”, it mentioned that road crashes are a major cause of death in many

countries. Qatar has been battling to improve road safety on several fronts using

different strategies, including road policing. The purpose of this study is to ascertain

drivers’ perceptions towards five existing and four proposed police traffic enforcement

strategies and associated penalties and rewards in Qatar using face-to-face surveys.

The results show that red-light running cameras were perceived to be the most

successful existing strategy. The high violation fine and the automation of the system

were mentioned as the main reasons for making this strategy the most successful.

Three of the existing strategies, fixed-speed enforcement cameras, police enforcement,

and mobile speed cameras, were conferred almost the same success percentage,

followed by the demerit point system. Regarding the proposed strategies, rewarding

safe drivers was selected by the participants as the most successful proposed strategy,
followed by introducing more automated enforcement methods. Community service for

traffic tickets came in third, followed by defensive driving school. These results can be

used to influence future enhancements of existing strategies and guide the development

of future traffic strategies being introduced in the traffic system.

The study by Khaled Shaaban (2017) investigates drivers' perceptions of various

police enforcement strategies and associated penalties and rewards in Qatar, aiming to

enhance road safety in the country. In contrast, the study on the perceptions of

Loonanons regarding traffic officers in Bohol explores community attitudes towards the

roles of traffic officers in maintaining order on the national highway. While both studies

focus on improving road safety through different approaches, they differ in their

geographic context and specific strategies examined, with Shaaban's study focusing on

drivers' perceptions of enforcement strategies in Qatar, while the Bohol study examines

community perceptions of traffic officers' roles in a specific region of the Philippines.

According to Macalibo, C. K., & Rosales, P. P. (n.d.), they focused on

understanding and determining the perception of the community on the performance of

traffic enforcers in connection to the attribution of their job. Researchers conducted a

survey and collected some data regarding the role of Traffic Enforcer on main roads.

The researchers determined what is causing these problems to traffic officers while they

are on duty. The researchers used the Quantitative approach and utilized a descriptive

type of method in conducting the study. The respondents have a total of fifty (50) traffic

enforcers coming from different areas of Lucena City. The data collected will be

described using mean and standard deviation. Weighted mean will be the traffic

enforces performance and the training they need to enhance their knowledge. In terms
of training that the traffic enforcers should attend are the training that familiarizes them

with the organizational mission, vision, rules and regulations and the working conditions.

Training about Traffic intersection conflicts, signs, and symbols and Traffic direction and

control.

The study by Macalibo and Rosales (n.d.) focuses on understanding community

perceptions of traffic enforcers' performance in Lucena City, Philippines, utilizing a

quantitative approach to collect and analyze data. Similarly, the study on the

perceptions of Loonanons regarding traffic officers in Bohol examines community

attitudes towards the roles of traffic officers in maintaining order on the national

highway. While both studies address the perceptions and performance of traffic

enforcers, they differ in their geographic focus and the specific methods used, with

Macalibo and Rosales employing surveys and quantitative analysis in Lucena City,

while the Bohol study explores qualitative insights from a specific region of the

Philippines.

In the study of Alonso, F., Esteban, C., Montoro, L., Useche, S. A., & Crowther-

Dowey, C. (2017), they have determined the characteristics, roles and challenges of

traffic personnel and their implications toward efficient traffic management system in

Bacolod City during the second quarter of calendar year 2018. A mixed methods

research design was used which involved the use of both quantitative and qualitative

methods by means of survey responded by 150 traffic personnel, key informant

interview participated by 3 Barangay Captains and a City Councilor and focus group

discussion participated by 6 traffic personnel which were all selected through a

purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Frequency count, percentage,

weighted mean, standard deviation, Mann- Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis and IBM SPSS

Version 19 were employed to analyze and present the data for quantitative part. While

the qualitative part of the study, Thematic Analysis was utilized. The findings showed

that traffic personnel who participated in the study were almost equally divided when

grouped according to age, while majority were male, attained college level, have less

than 7 years of experience and designated as traffic enforcer. Meanwhile, not all

completed the required trainings. When it comes to their roles as traffic personnel, it

showed that they are mainly managing traffic flow and implementing traffic rules and

regulations in the roads. Moreover, it showed that majority of them are highly

knowledgeable on City Ordinance 338, and there are no significant differences when

they were grouped according to age, sex, educational attainment, and job designation.

However, significant differences were found in their level of knowledge on the ordinance

when they were grouped according to length of service and trainings attended. On the

other hand, it was found out that the topmost challenge experienced by the participants

is the arrogance of drivers. The lack of discipline which includes disregarding of traffic

rules and regulations among drivers follows next. Ignorance of the traffic rules and

regulations among road users, attitude of drivers, bad weather conditions, high volume

of vehicles and road widening projects are also included in the short list of challenges

encountered by traffic personnel in the City. Finally, results of this study were used in

formulating an enhanced traffic management system program for Bacolod Traffic

Authority Office.

The study by Alonso et al. (2017) investigates the characteristics, roles, and

challenges of traffic personnel in Bacolod City, Philippines, aiming to enhance the

efficiency of the traffic management system. Similarly, the study on the perceptions of

Loonanons regarding traffic officers in Bohol explores community attitudes towards the

roles of traffic officers in maintaining order on the national highway. While both studies

focus on traffic management and the experiences of traffic personnel, they differ in their

geographic focus and research methods, with Alonso et al. employing a mixed-methods

approach in Bacolod City, while the Bohol study examines qualitative insights from a

specific region of the Philippines.

Lastly, based on the study of Carpio (2022), it is generally accepted that it is not

possible to completely prevent vehicle crashes, but that some of the injuries and

severity can be prevented or minimized by skilled traffic enforcer. The study used

descriptive method as it describes the present condition. A total of 205 respondents

composing of 155 commuters and 50 traffic enforcers were surveyed. Based on the

findings of the study, the commuters perceived traffic enforcers to be knowledgeable,

skilled and displaying good attitude in implementing traffic rules. Thus, it is

recommended that the commuters also should educate themselves in traffic rules and

regulations. The traffic enforcers perceived themselves to be knowledgeable, skilled

and displaying good attitude in implementing traffic rules. Thus, it is recommended that

the traffic enforcers should update their knowledge, skills, and attitude through

seminars and trainings for them to improve continuously.

The study by Carpio (2022) explores the perceptions of commuters and traffic

enforcers regarding the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of traffic enforcers in preventing

and minimizing vehicle crashes. Similarly, the study on the perceptions of Loonanons

regarding traffic officers in Bohol investigates community attitudes towards the roles of
traffic officers in maintaining order on the national highway. While both studies focus on

perceptions of traffic personnel and their effectiveness in implementing traffic rules, they

differ in their geographic focus and the specific methodologies used, with Carpio

employing a descriptive method and surveying commuters and traffic enforcers, while

the Bohol study examines qualitative insights from a specific region of the Philippines.

Synthesis

This research focus on traffic management in Loon, Bohol, reveals a multifaceted

approach to understanding the dynamics of traffic enforcement and public perceptions.

The Public Trust Theory underscores the importance of trust in government institutions

and officials for cooperation and compliance with laws, suggesting that Loonanons'

perceptions of traffic management are influenced by their trust in the competence,

fairness, and integrity of these officers. The Sensemaking Theory emphasizes

individuals' interpretation of their experiences in understanding complex phenomena,

suggesting that Loonanons' perceptions of traffic management are shaped by their

attempts to make sense of traffic management practices. Additionally, the System

Theory provides a framework for understanding the components and interactions within

the traffic management system, highlighting the role of highway codes and enforcement

mechanisms in ensuring compliance and safety. Legal bases such as Republic Act

4136 and Executive Orders establish the regulatory framework for traffic management,

emphasizing the importance of adherence to laws and regulations.

Related literature and studies further delve into public attitudes, perceptions, and

experiences with traffic enforcement, shedding light on factors influencing behaviors

and decision-making related to traffic incidents. Overall, these theories, legal bases,

literature, and studies provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities

surrounding traffic management and the role of traffic personnel in Loon, Bohol, offering

valuable insights for policymaking and implementation to address traffic congestion and

ensure road safety.

THE PROBLEM

Statement of the Problem

This study investigates the perception of Loonanons on the traffic management

on the national highway in Loon, Bohol.

Specifically, this study seeks answers to the following questions:

1. What is the demographic profile of the participants in terms of:

1.1 age;

1.2 sex;

1.3 civil status;

1.4 educational attainment;

2. What is the perception of the participants on the Traffic Management in terms of:

2.1 Traffic Condition;

2.2 Traffic Congestion;

2.3 Traffic Officer's Assessment;

2.4 Solution of Traffic Congestion;

3. Is there a significant difference on the perception on the traffic management on the

national highway in Brgy. Cogon Norte, Loon, Bohol when participants classified

according to profile?

Research Hypothesis

In the conduct of this study, the researchers proposed the following hypothesis:

1. There is significant difference on the perception on the traffic management on the

national highway in Brgy. Cogon Norte, Loon, Bohol when participants classified

according to profile.

Significance of the Study

This study holds significant benefits for the community of Loon, Bohol, as it

impacts various individuals and groups within it. Firstly, vehicular drivers stand to gain

crucial awareness of national laws and best practices concerning traffic management on

highways. By understanding these regulations, they can better navigate traffic

situations, potentially leading to a reduction in congestion. Moreover, this increased

awareness empowers them to recognize and rectify traffic violations, thereby fostering a

sense of responsibility as contributing members to road safety.

Secondly, commuters will benefit from gaining insight into the prevailing traffic

conditions in their locality. Understanding the dynamics of traffic congestion allows

commuters to make informed decisions, potentially altering their travel routes or modes

of transportation to alleviate congestion. Additionally, heightened awareness of their role

in contributing to traffic flow encourages commuters to adopt safer driving practices and

adhere to traffic rules, thereby promoting overall road safety.

 Furthermore, traffic officers are poised to benefit from this study by gaining the

opportunity for self-assessment and reflection on their performance. By examining their

practices and adherence to protocols, traffic officers can identify areas for improvement

and refine their approach to traffic management. This self-assessment enhances their

effectiveness in managing traffic and ensures they uphold the highest standards of

professionalism while on duty.

Lastly, future researchers will find value in this study as it provides a foundational

framework for further investigation into traffic management practices. By building upon

the findings and methodologies of this study, future researchers can delve deeper into

specific aspects of traffic control and maintenance, ultimately contributing to ongoing

initiatives aimed at enhancing community well-being and safety on the roads of Loon,

Bohol. Overall, this study serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement in traffic

management practices, ultimately benefiting the entire community and ensuring safer,

more efficient roadways.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Design

The study will employ a descriptive method in its overall procedure, aiming to

delineate the nature of the situation as observed during the study period and to delve

into the progression of a specific phenomenon (Harold, 2013). Its primary objective was

to provide a detailed description of phenomena. Specifically, the researchers utilized

this method to depict the prevailing traffic conditions along Loon, Bohol national

highway and to elucidate the responsibilities of traffic officers in upholding order on the
national highway. Additionally, the study incorporated insights from respondents

regarding potential solutions to alleviate current traffic congestion issues.

Environment

The study will be conducted at Brgy. Cogon Norte National Highway, Loon, Bohol

. Further, Barangay Cogon Norte has a total population of 2,099 individual as of year

2020 Census statistic record. Most of the commercial establishments are in Barangay

Cogon Norte, which is now becoming the center of trade, commerce, and education in

Loon.

Participants

The participants of the study will be the residents of Brgy. Cogon Norte, Loon,

Bohol. There will be a total of one hundred twenty (120) research participants used in

this study. Research participants were selected through convenience sampling.

Convenience sampling (also known as availability sampling) is a specific type of non-

probability sampling method that relies on data collection from population members who

are conveniently available to participate in study.

Instrumentation

The instrument that will be use in this study are adopted questionnaires from the

study entitled, "The Roles of the Traffic Officers in the Maintenance of Order in the

National Highway in Maranding as Perceived by the Pedicab Drivers" (2017). The

questionnaires were divided into four (4) parts: (1) Current Traffic Condition, (2) Major

Causes of Traffic Congestion, (3) Traffic Officers’ Role Assessment, and (4) Solutions

on Traffic Congestion. The variables of the study will measure through hypothetical

mean range of: 0.00-1.49 – Strongly Agree (SA), 1.50- 2 – Agree (A), 2.50-3.49 –

Neutral (N), 3.50-4.49 – Disagree (D) and 4.50 - 5 – Strongly Disagree (SD).

Gathering of Data

The researchers will provide a formal letter asking for permission to conduct this

study to the Dean of the College of Criminal Justice and to the respective Brgy. Captain

of the chosen barangay. After such, signed letters by our college dean and the

respective Brgy. Captain were attached to the questionnaires for the valued

participants, humbly and politely asking for their time and cooperation with regards to

answering the questionnaires. After congregating all the data, it will tallied and

tabulated. The results will be examined to analyze and determine the perception of the

participants on the traffic management on the national highway of Loon, Bohol.

Treatment of Data

The following statistical treatments will use to analyze the data garnered in this

study:

Frequency. This will be used to determine the number of respondents in each

item indicators.
 Mean. This will be used to determine the average score in each item indicator.

The formula below was used in to determine the mean.

Formula for mean:

Inferential statistics such as t-tests or ANOVA will be used to determine if there is

a significant difference on the perception of the participants on the traffic management

on the national higway of Brgy. Cogon Norte, as well as to explore the correlation

between the perception of enforcement of traffic rules and regulations and the overall

perception of traffic order.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following were defined conceptually and operationally:

National Highway. Conceptually, refers to a major road or thoroughfare designated by

the national government for intercity or interstate travel, typically characterized by high

traffic volume, long-distance connectivity, and strategic importance to the national

transportation network. Operationally, defined as the specific roadway or corridor

designated as a national highway by the relevant government authorities in Loon,

Bohol.

Perception of Loonanons. Conceptually, refers to the subjective understanding,

interpretation, and awareness of individuals. Operationally, defined as the responses,

opinions, and attitudes expressed by residents of Loon, Bohol, regarding the roles and

activities of traffic officers on the national highway.

Traffic Management. Conceptually, refers to the systematic planning, organization, and

control of traffic-related activities and infrastructure to ensure the safe, efficient, and
orderly movement of vehicles, pedestrians, and goods on the national highway.

Operationally, is defined as the perceived effectiveness and adequacy of measures

implemented by traffic officers to regulate traffic flow, enforce rules and regulations, and

address safety concerns on the national highway in Loon, Bohol.

Traffic Officer. Conceptually, refers to an individual employed by the local government

or law enforcement agency who is responsible for regulating, directing, and enforcing

traffic laws and regulations on the national highway. Operationally, defined as any

individual authorized by the relevant authorities to carry out duties related to traffic

management and enforcement on the national highway in Loon, Bohol.