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Community Perspectives On Environmental Crimes In Laguna And Quezon, Philippines: Toward Proposed Natural Resource Protection Strategies

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Environmental crimes worsen the risks linked to climate change. Unsustainable urbanization and industrial growth, driven by technological and economic ambitions, add pressure on fragile ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Objective: This study examined community perspectives on environmental crimes and issues, measured respondents' level of awareness of the effects of these crimes, tested differences between respondents from Laguna and Quezon, and proposed natural resource protection strategies. Methods: The study used a descriptive-comparative quantitative design. An expert-validated, researcher-made questionnaire gathered responses from 420 residents (327 from Laguna and 93 from Quezon) selected through purposive and convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using weighted means and independent samples t-tests. Results: Respondents showed strong average agreement that quarrying, illegal logging, kaingin, open burning, smoke belching, wildlife exploitation, and unpermitted fish pens are environmental crimes (category means 3.28 to 3.44 on a four-point scale). They reported a high level of awareness of the effects of these crimes (M = 3.51). Respondents from Laguna and Quezon did not differ significantly on any of the seven variables (all p > .05). Smoke belching, sand dredging, and quarrying received the lowest ratings. Conclusions: Residents of both provinces hold high and comparable knowledge and awareness of environmental crimes and their perceived effects, with weaker recognition of less visible offenses. These findings support community-based education campaigns on environmental laws, stricter monitoring by local government units and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and a community watch and rapid reporting system.

Source: Review of Studies on Criminology Sociology and Law

DOI: 10.68354/743083

Authors: Gelbert Llanto, Jennifer Valdez

Institution: Laguna State Polytechnic University

Language: English

Topic: Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses

Subfield: Nature and Landscape Conservation

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Sustainable cities and communities, Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W7225017330

FWCI:

Cites: 31

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Related to: 10