Police Self-Image in Relation to Public Trust in the Second Congressional District of Davao Oriental

Public trust in law enforcement is a complex issue shaped by individual perspectives and social dynamics. This study aims to gain an understanding of the Police Self-Image in Relation to Public Trust among police officers assigned in the second congressional district of Davao Oriental, using a community-based survey of 358 respondents. This study uses a quantitative, descriptive-correlational research method to: first, identify the levels of police self-image and public trust; second, explore the existing relationship between police self-image and public trust; and third, test the existing influence of police self-image on public trust. Results reveal that Police self-image is very high, as is Public Trust. The correlation test found a significant, strong positive correlation between police self-image and public trust. Also, it exerted a significant influence on police self-image and public trust. The R-squared value indicated that 41.4% of the variance in public trust is significantly influenced by police image. This study concludes that police self-image is a strong and significant predictor of public trust, amplifying 41.4% of its variance. A very high police self-image aligns with high public trust, validating their positive relationship. Law enforcement agencies ought to institutionalize programs that reinforce police professional identity, ethical standards, and community engagement, as police self-image statistically significantly influences public trust. Regular community discussions and a feedback system should also be applied. Additionally, subsequent initiatives should explore additional determinants of trust, as 58.6% of its variance remains unexplained.