Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines

International Journal of Social Science and Human Research ISSN (print): 2644-0679, ISSN (online): 2644-0695 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijsshr/v8-i12-41, Impact factor8.007 Page No: 9509-9532 IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9509 Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines Datu Moden C. Talandig1, Jhon Paul O. Pedrajas2 1,2Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography ABSTRACT: This case study investigated the dynamics of collaborative efforts among various sectors, particularly those in influential roles, in addressing the complex challenges of maintaining peace and order in Pikit, North Cotabato—a locality marked by elevated crime rates. Employing an illustrative case study approach, the qualitative research sought to comprehend the roles, initiatives, and cooperative strategies employed by different sectors in Pikit including BARMM. Utilizing purposive sampling, five key participants representing significant positions within the Police, Barangay officials, Municipal officials, BARMM officials, and LGU officials were selected. Data collection encompassed interviews, followed by coding and thematic analysis to extract meaningful insights, providing a comprehensive understanding of the concerted efforts aimed at addressing the peace and security concerns in the region. The results revealed a commendable demonstration on how well these sectors in Pikit work alongside with one another to combat the escalating crimes in the area, however, the findings implied that Pikit, North Cotabato is still struggling to contain these criminal activities and still considered a dangerous place. KEYWORDS: BARMM, Cooperation, Crimes, Initiatives, Pikit, Sectors INTRODUCTION When it comes to the primary requirement for the prosperity and development of any society, there should peace and security of life and property. On the other side, there is a clear connection between poor leadership, unpredictability, and violent conflict (Igbuzor, 2017). Crime is a disobedience of the moral principles as they are interpreted and stated by the law, which is a reflection of social and political authorities' ideologies, cultural norms, and opinions. Governmental penalties, social stigma, and status loss could affect those who break these regulations (Siegel, 2008). High-income nation teams conducted a series of multi-country studies in 2018 to determine the "best practices" in MSC within the border of environmentally friendly development (Hinton, 2021). In the context of "multi-sectoral collaboration," it is the organized gathering and cooperation of many sectors and stakeholders to accomplish agreed-upon results and common goals. According to the concept of wicked problems, the majority of studies primarily concentrate on the causes of crime and its preventions. The following needs to be examined because studies indicate that it lacks sustained focus on the problems. This was demonstrated by Head's (2013) examination of the wicked problem idea. In policy studies, the concept of "wicked problems" has got into a greater spotlight, while the consequences for government institutions have received fewer considerations. This article presents the primary organizational and cognitive factors identified in the literature on wicked situations. Head (2013) provides a comprehensive list of current approaches to dealing with stakeholder divergence and problem complexity that are based on systems thinking literature, cooperation, and flexible leadership duties for managers and supervisors in government. Several crucial government functional areas, including organizational design, personnel management, and performance evaluation, have problems with public management. Despite the difficulties in evolving, we believe that temporary fixes can be made to governance practices to more effectively address wicked problems. Additionally, based on the Virginia study, knowing the many activities and projects carried out by the various sectors in your community is crucial for having a major impact and having a great way to engage with the community. Additionally, it supports localities in creating flexible frameworks for collaborative community safety planning. It aids the community in revaluating their strategies for addressing new community safety concerns (Schuiteman, 2015). In this study, the researcher investigated the different initiatives done by the various sectors in the locality. The researcher encompassed on why such crimes are unending in the locality. The findings of this study will be highly helpful to the following individuals. The study's findings will help the political authorities better understand the local situation and combat the area's never ending crime wave. The residents of Pikit will gain from this study since it will enable them to evaluate the state of peace and Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9510 security in their area. Researchers in the future will benefit from this study since it will provide a thorough understanding of the circumstances in Pikit, North Cotabato, and the numerous actors involved in maintaining law and order there. This study would be helpful to students since it will enable them to comprehend the many approaches and attempts taken by various sectors to reduce such crimes. The University of Southern Mindanao and other institutions would benefit from this study since it will provide them with ideas and strategies for crime prevention programs and ensure that they are familiar with the roles that schools and instructors play in such initiatives. Lastly, this study will be helpful to police officials and other peace enforcers since it will provide them with ideas and varied viewpoints on the procedures involved in preventing crime and maintaining peace. OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS The following are operationally defined in the study: BARMM refers to Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is a Philippine autonomous territory on the island of Mindanao's Southwest coast. Initiatives refers to a number of initiatives to combat the never – ending crimes Multi-Sectoral refers to Intentional coordination across multiple stakeholder organizations and sectors to collaboratively produce policy outcomes in the area. MILF refers to (Moro Islamic liberation) with a base in Mindanao wants the central government to recognize the Moro people as an autonomous entity. Peace and Security refers to the absence of war and human rights are upheld, and operations to prevent conflict and human rights violations are strengthened. Peace Process refers to all the conferences, agreements, and discussions that authorities and other people take part in when attempting to broker a peaceful agreement between the two sides. Political Forces refers to any individuals or pressure organizations that have a substantial impact on the conflicts taking place in the area. Examples include the LGU, PNP, Barangay peacekeeping action teams, CAFGU, and BARMM. Unending Crime refers to a crime that never ends that does not have any effective measures against it. THEORETICAL LENS This study was anchored to the functionalist theory specifically Talcot Parson’s Functionalism theory or known as the organic Analogy: We should see society as a system and Emil Durkheim’s Functionalist theory. A successful society, according to functionalism, has a strong social structure in which multiple organizations perform out certain activities that support the maintenance of the whole, just like how different bodily components perform out varied functions to safeguard an individual's wellness. For example, in a rich or "healthy" society, social interaction is planned to ensure that the household socializes teenagers and fulfils their psychological requirements, learning offers us with an increased number of competencies, and work is how we serve to the economy. Functionalists frequently claim that social institutions collaborate to maintain social order and limit unsustainable criminal activity as well as criminal behavior, and that institutions serve desirable ends that benefit both individuals and society (Parsons, 2016). According to Talcott Parson's (2016) theory, institutions in society function similarly to bodily organs, each providing certain activities that are critical to the overall health of the system. Elements of society should be viewed as a result of the things they're doing to keep the whole operating. Furthermore, for communities to thrive, a variety of 'functional requirements' have to be met. Similar to the way individuals rely on specific goods to thrive, each civilization needs a specific set of items to function successfully. A civilization, for example, must create and distribute resources such as shelter and nourishment, as well as some type of organization to handle disputes and educate young people. As noted by Parsons, for a society to be sustainable, there are some conditions that must be considered: adaptability, objective attainment, integration, and delay. However, the author stated that most people in American society got along well together, therefore sustaining the status quo (avoidance of conflict or revolution) was vital. These requirements are met in a contemporary industrial society by specialized subsystems. Additionally, it was asserted that groups promoting Value Consensus agreement on shared values rather than the use of force was the main method for establishing social order. The basis of social order, in Parsons' view, is adherence to shared ideals (Parsons, 2016). On the other hand, for the concept of functionalism given out by Durkheim. The pieces of a puzzle cannot be assembled in a random fashion. Each component needs to be put in its right location in order for the puzzle to be finished. According to Durkheim's division of labor theory, not every person in a society with a division of work does the same task. This idea is concerned with how individuals live and work in a society. As will be discussed in more detail in the following section, this division of labor caused the transition from mechanical to organic solidarity. Collective consciousness is negatively impacted by these two changes as well. In societies with mechanical unity, where everyone adheres to the same standards and regulations, social behavior becomes easier to control. Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9511 The collective consciousness has been reduced as a result of the plurality of competing ideas regarding values, lifestyles, and points of view. When people break societal standards, the effects are likely to get worse (Allen, 2022). REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE The Historical Pattern of the Happenings in Pikit The battle between the MILF and the government at the time over the Moros of Mindanao's claim to independence left Pikit, one of the North Cotabato towns, in ruins. In Pikit, there were severe wars in 1997, 2000, 2001, and 2003 between the government and MILF forces, which drove 10,000 residents from their homes. The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro was reached in 2014 by the two sides after 17 years of peace negotiations (Mindanews, 2022). Additionally, early in 2003, there was the so-called Pikit War between Muslim separatists and the Philippine army. At least 40 individuals have been killed in this town since last year, yet not a single case has yet been resolved (Fernandez, 2023). Family disputes, known as rido, and crimes committed by the lawless Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters are the most frequent causes of crimes in the community (Duerme, 2021). Furthermore, according to Ebrahim as cited in Sarmiento (2023), the recent deaths in Pikit, North Cotabato, did not occur as a result of "religious conflict" between Muslims and Christians. The town that had been in disarray was given more security officers, and the LGU (local government unit) was offered a reward for details leading to the detention of the criminals. This influenced how the incident unfolded. Ebrahim disputed reports that Christians and Muslims are conducting a retaliatory war in Pikit, an elite municipality having an estimated population of roughly 165,000 (As of the 2020 census). The Paradigm of Crime Prevention Despite the fact that criminal data indicate an overall drop in the past ten years (Tonry, 2013), there remain a variety of offenses that constitute and/or are viewed as a severe and persistent risk to individuals and society as a whole. To reduce crime, local crime prevention initiatives or techniques target improvements within the local infrastructure, society, or the external area. Local surveillance, community security, urban or physical planning, including holistic or collaborative efforts are examples of approaches. These techniques may attempt to involve individuals, non-profit and faith-based groups, and governmental authorities in addressing the causes that contribute to criminal activity, criminal behavior, and disturbance in the neighborhood. In addition, communities, lawmakers, and leaders are all concerned about reducing gun violence. Several initiatives have been implemented to minimize gun violence, incorporating security tactics, firearms laws, firearm exchange initiatives, as well as safety measures. The method has been deemed effective in terms of lowering violent firearms offenses. A criminal activity control technique aimed at boosting street illumination in order to minimize crime by modifying and enhancing environmental practices. The approach is deemed promising in terms of decreasing criminality and economic violations, but it has little effect on violent offenses (Perry & Fenelly, 2018). Moreover, the situational crime prevention (SCP) is a criminological idea that advocates for crime-reduction initiatives that reach well beyond the realm of law enforcement. SCP views criminal law in a more limited view as merely one component of governance's anticrime effort. This requires an in-depth investigation of certain kinds of crimes (or challenges) with the goal to determine the underlying factors that helps their commission. The linked situational components are subsequently altered using methods of intervention. In concept, such an approach minimizes violation through rendering it difficult to conduct the crime in spite of the aim or goal of the offender, preventing the offender against performing the crime in the first place, or several indicators that increase an individual's intention for committing criminality at particular situations. SCP has given rise to a number of strategies that have lately been identified to reduce crime in the area, national, and even global levels. SCP varies from different theories in criminology because it tries to limit crime possibilities rather than penalizing or rehabilitating offenders (Freilich & Newman, 2017). One strategy also develops on the previous one by analyzing the level and/or kind of crime before and after intervention. a few, for instance, Hsu and Apel (2015), conducted time-series analyses to explore the effect of particular initiatives and discovered evidence backing SCP's claims. A variety of research, called "cliff edge" research (Perry et al., 2016), found that a successful measure may result in a significant decrease in criminality. Standard experimental designs are frequently unsuitable or unnecessary, particularly if such studies take place in a situation context, wherein legal and moral dilemmas may arise when distributing organizations between test or control groups. On the other hand, Carroll (2019) stated that for crime prevention to be successful, individuals, neighborhoods, organizations, and every sector of authority must collaborate to create and carry out efficient initiatives that address the root causes of crime. Initiatives to reduce criminality in the community also require adequate and appropriate funding. A strategic funding strategy with specific rules can help ensure the success of the program. Resources should be arranged in accordance with secondary principles, which dictate those resources, and at the lowest level of governance, tasks should be delegated and assigned. Financing Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9512 is consistent with and capable of attaining the federal government's strategic goal. Utilizing local expertise through collaborating with local communities that are supported by both the government and the community is one of the agreement's advantages. Moreover, the practical application of studies and their findings in the creation and execution of crime-reduction programs is an essential component of contemporary reduction of crime strategies. Therefore, evaluation is a crucial component of successful crime prevention. If a program has been implemented as intended (and if not, why not), an in-depth assessment will reveal what outcomes were successfully achieved, if the initiative's intended objectives have been achieved, including the explanations for why the initiative succeeded or failed. It can be useful while deciding if to keep running the course of action and how to make it better. It additionally assists by giving authorities a strong data base and practitioners may use to determine exactly (Morgan, 2013). Furthermore, the idea that crime can be managed and prevented emerges naturally from the awareness that the environment establishes crime. This idea is comparable to the concepts of immunology and public health. A better lifestyle is the primary defense's goal in order to lessen the impacts of illness or damage. And refraining from unsuitable actions and community. In addition, prevention of crime seeks to minimize the consequences of an accident or illness, whereas tertiary crime prevention seeks to treat the consequences of an accident or illness as soon as possible through rehabilitation and assist in making a living. The primary goal of preventing crime, from a criminological standpoint, aims to avoid crimes from arising by creating and upholding safe environments. The additional objective of crime prevention is to eliminate crime (Matsukawa 2013 et al.). Local and International cooperation for crime prevention Primarily, the Philippine National Police stated that preventing crime is the primary objective in order to ensure public safety. The local area must actively participate and work together to ensure security and safety. Action should be made to safeguard community safety by notifying the PNP about complaints and volunteer opportunities, and residents are urged to report any unusual person movements or patterns of behavior in their neighborhood and cooperation among stakeholders is the key aspect (Patoza, 2018). Throughout 2021-25, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC)'s governing plan of action made up three main emphasis areas: tackling the global drug problem; combating organized crime, notably through assisting with the execution of the UN convention against transnational organized crime. The UNODC assists member countries in implementing drug use prevention programs (particularly via the Global Youth Network against Drug Abuse & its Global Initiative on Primary Prevention of Substance Abuse) as well as in providing drug addiction treatment and care services. The UNODC provides support to meetings of the policy-making Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. Through association with the UN interregional crime and justice research center, the UNODC encourages research and conducts studies on novel ways of crime prevention. Humanitarian initiatives or peacekeeping operations of the United Nations operate on the ground to prevent and settle disputes, as well as to promote sustainable peace in post-conflict nations. The office that handles political and peace operations (DPPA) that was founded on January 1, 2019, assists them. The DPPA's mediation assistance unit strengthens regional organizations' mediation competence, offers logistical, advising, and monetary support to peace processes, and compiles policy and best practices knowledge (Canton, 2021). Additionally, several aspects should be taken into consideration, according to Dasayon (2013), as a crime prevention approach in his analysis of residents' perceptions of crime prevention. Long-term planning and proactive crime prevention techniques should be encouraged. Additionally, there is a need to improve the coordination of national and local initiatives to reduce crime. Criminal justice and law enforcement should promote security and protection of people and property, consideration for and understanding of victims' needs, and on-going evaluation of initiatives for crime prevention consist of trustworthy data, evaluation, and free communication among everyone involved. On the other hand, the UN Secretariat, in collaboration with its members, established a global community to recognize the importance of local and international collaboration aligned with various legal objectives. The organization was created to facilitate enhanced intercultural cooperation in criminal justice and crime prevention at international, regional, and sub-regional levels. The network provides services such as knowledge sharing, research, education, and training, with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, as well as various institutes and specialized centers globally, participating in the UN Criminal Justice and Crime Prevention Program Network since its inception in Tokyo, Japan, in 1962. The network, responsible for organizing collaborative events like the Crime Congress, has seen increased involvement from the Program Network Institute (PNI) in arranging UN quinquennial crime congresses. Thirteen workshops have been scheduled in the past twenty years, demonstrating the PNI's growing role. The Program Network also collaborates with other organizations to host seminars and events that support the Committee on Prevention of Crime and Administrative Justice work during its annual conferences. These activities align with the Commission's directive for Institutes to assist Member States with technical program-related concerns, including participation in crime and justice survey operations and collecting information on the implementation of UN standards and regulations in joint initiatives related to the UN crime program (UNICRI, 2023). Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9513 BARMM Participation on Peace and Security On July 26, 2018, the Organic Legislation governing Bangsamoro Autonomous Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was signed into Philippine law. Philippines Organic Act establishing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) was replaced by this law. It's not a flawless law, and the provisions are frequently modified by non-Muslim legislators. It does not fully execute all of the major aspects of the Tripoli Agreement. To deal with several among the present concerns left through the ARMM, the BARMM must have a better awareness of present problems such as poverty, illness, and crime impacting the regions and towns under its control. According to the article, BOL is only one of the instruments for fostering justice and tranquility in Mindanao. It is not the end of the government's quest for long-term peace. As a result, it concludes with some suggestions for fresh fields of study on longterm peace and security (Tagoranao, 2020). Moreover, the preceding administration attempted to engage in negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to address the Mindanao conflict. However, both proposed ceasefire agreements faced obstacles due to a variety of factors and complex motivations involving non-Muslim peacekeepers and lawmakers in the House of Representatives. An illustration of this is the creation of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD), a pact outlining the establishment of a Bangsamoro Juridical Entity with its own governance, military, and judiciary (Marcelo, 2014). Through numerous rounds of peace talks between the government and the MILF in recent years, certain government negotiators, with considerable experience, have at times extended or undermined the peace process for personal reasons. The MILF panel's exceptional skills and patience have, however, allowed them to navigate challenges and demonstrate a commitment to enduring obstacles for the sake of peaceful negotiations. Drawing on their Islamic faith, the MILF panel's resilience reflects the Qur'anic principle of being a people of a "middle way" (ummatan wasatan), advocating patience, evolution, and a positive attitude for discipline. The Qur'an encourages Muslims to maintain mutual understanding (ta'aruf) over differences in various groups and governments, envisioning Muslims as promoters of stability (Kamali, 2016). Recent efforts for lasting peace in the southern Philippines led to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority (BTA). The BTA has initiated two-track peace negotiations and the region's first elections. Despite centuries of challenges, including underdevelopment, violence, poverty, and instability, the Authority faces significant hardships in its current phase. Furthermore, given that the BARMM was just established in 2019 and everything else they had to deal with, the BTA has performed incredibly well. The transfer of financing and the transfer of power both took longer than expected because it was created in 2019. The deadlines for completing the requirements listed in the peace agreement were unquestionably overly optimistic. The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic can then be observed from the start of 2020 till the present. The BTA's response to the pandemic has received plaudits in many communities, helping to increase public confidence in the transitional government and, more importantly, in its bureaucracy and institutions (Ingram, 2022). Relevance of Multi-Sectoral Collaboration Stakeholders in law enforcement have to work together alongside those from other sectors to deal with the fundamental causes of disputes, prevent acts of violence, disputes, and breaches of the rule of law. In terms of crime and violence, this implies shifting from harsh support for conflict reduction strategies centered on research, especially those which target women, children, and populations at risk. It additionally means that industries that deal with criminals and casualties, like social workers, prosecutor's offices and defense lawyers, ought to be engaged with the execution of preventive measures to make certain that recommendations of specific situations to suitable service providers go easily and satisfy the needs of the parties concerned (UNODC, 2O23). Multisectoral alliances move all the way to 1992, when the agenda 21 program was endorsed at the Earth Summit. It was expressly suggested that a worldwide cooperation for equitable growth be formed. Cross-sectoral collaboration was underlined as one of the important strategies for achieving long-term development at the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992, and more recently in the United States the 2030 Agenda of Nations (Pesqueira et al., 2020). It was stressed on the fact that there are effective MSPs for sustainable development between businesses, governments, and community organizations (MacDonald, 2019). Collaboration and partnership tend to be interchanged. A relationship of partnership is a form of cooperation that utilizes resources which are divided, skills, and talents to accomplish shared objectives. In terms of their structural and legal dimensions, it’s also known as "a delicate type of organizations" (Meuleman & Niestroy, 2015). Cooperation, on the other hand, is defined as "a brief interpersonal system whereby a number of different agents cooperate to achieve a particular shared goal that requires the change of supplies, concepts, as well as interpersonal relationships" (Roberts & Bradley 1991). An organization's momentum must accept and promote MSPs for long-term success, according to current research (Austin et al., 2000). Additionally, previous research suggests that cross-sector social partnerships include a variety of characteristics, mixing management, political, and sociological theories with those of global development studies (Bendell et al., 2010). METHODOLOGY Within this chapter, the methods and procedures regarding the study's implementation are described, including the research design, the researcher's role, the research subjects and materials, data collection, data analysis, validity, and ethical considerations. Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9514 RESEARCH DESIGN A qualitative approach and case study technique was used in this study in which the case study strategy allowed the researcher to undertake an in-depth inquiry into a person, a group of people, or an entire group with the goal of generalizing over a number of units (Heale, 2017). Specifically, the illustrative case study, a descriptive case study that illustrates one or more aspects of an incident in order to clarify the circumstance. A circumstance or event, together with what is happening with it and why, are described using this kind of case study (Webber, 2015). Role of the Researcher The role of the researchers were to formulate and analyze the data needed for the study and provided an accurate result. All of these was made possible in the form of interview questions and the different methods. The researcher also ensured the validity of the data collected and also considered the ethical considerations. Research Participants and Materials Purposive sampling was used to pick respondents for this investigation. This is a collection of sampling with no probability strategies whereby pieces were selected based on the traits that you require in your sample. In this case, units were "on purpose" chosen. When finding and selecting individuals, cases, or events that can provide the greatest information to meet the study's objectives, this sampling approach relies on the researcher's judgment (Nikolopoulou, 2022). In this study, the participants were from the various sectors in Pikit, specifically, those who are in the higher positions. The participants were specifically the ones who contributed to the peace and security in Pikit and who has gained enough knowledge in regards to the purpose of the study. The targeted participants were from the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Pikit, Citizen Local Government Unit in Pikit (LGU), Baranggay Official, Municipal official, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) official). DATA COLLECTION In the data collection, the researcher made a consent to conduct the study. The researcher made a letter to the Department head (Barangay and Municipality) to ask for permission to allow the researcher to conduct the study and to have the needed information about the peace and security initiatives done in the locality. The researcher did also choose participants and asking permission to seek the approval of the participant in the said interview. There was an informed consent for them to be aware about the study and the possibilities. The next step was by operating an interview, the researcher administered the interview guide questions with the recordings to gather the needed information. Lastly, was the coding of data. The researcher coded the data with thematic analysis through themes and verified the results and came up with an extracted result. DATA ANALYSIS After gathering the data, the researcher presented and analyzed the data through narrative accounts. This encompassed the different approaches of the locality about the peace and security in the area and also constitutes the narratives of the participants. This study analyzed the data by using thematic analysis to create coded words and a result in formulating a theme. Lastly, a concept map that develops themes is called a thematic network, it demonstrates the connections between them by breaking them down onto three levels: basic theme, organizing theme, and global theme (Attride-Stirling, 2001; Akinyode & Khan, 2018). Table 1. Thematic Analysis Matrix (Cresswell &Cresswell 2018) Research Questions Textual Data Codes Categories Theme Description Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9515 Figure 1. Structure of a Thematic Network VALIDITY The result of this study was thoroughly examined and analyzed by the researcher to ensure whether the data gathered is genuine and accurate, with no biases, the results was be based on the participants personal experiences and insights. Credibility was also followed so that the results presented will be plausible. Transferability also came to the extent of this study, to ensure that it could be applicable to other contexts. Next one is the confirmability; the results were consulted by an expert in the field of research specifically qualitative research and reviewed the results, to ensure the consistence and assurance of the findings were established despite any changes. In addition, thematic analysis method was used in examining the qualitative data. It is frequently used in reference to a collection of texts, such as transcripts or interviews. In finding recurring themes, subjects, concepts, and patterns of significance in the data, the searcher attentively studied it. The method of doing a thematic analysis can be done in a number of ways, however the approach that is most prevalent involves six steps: familiarization, coding, generating themes, defining and naming themes, and writing up (Caulfield, 2022). The researcher's initial move was to familiarize themselves with the information at hand. Whenever we begin evaluating specific items, it's critical to acquire an in-depth understanding of all the information we gathered. This could entail listening to some recording and translating it, reviewing the content and making some preliminary points out, as well as browsing over the information in order to become proficient in it. Secondly, the researcher coded the information as the following phase. Coding is the process of underlining specific text passages, typically words or phrases, and creating abbreviations or "codes" to indicate what such passages are about. In generating themes, the researcher then reviewed the codes that were developed, spot any discrepancies, and began formulating themes. The researcher ensured in generating themes whether the main concepts were precise and appropriate summaries of the information being analyzed. The researcher got back and evaluate the patterns to the information that was set. Furthermore, followed by defining and naming themes, the researcher identified and characterized every concept that the researcher obtained a complete list of themes. The process of establishing concepts entails articulating precisely what we mean by every concept and determining how it aids in our comprehension of the facts. The process of identifying themes involves providing each subject a succinct and comprehensible name. Lastly, writing up the evaluation of the findings was done by the researcher. Drafting up an analysis of themes involves a beginning that lays out our study topic, goals, and strategy, just like any other academic document. Each theme was discussed individually in the outcome or results section. The researcher discussed the themes' frequency of occurrence and their significance, providing examples from the data to support our claims. The conclusion that follows summarizes the key findings and demonstrates whether the study addressed the research topic. Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9516 ETHICAL CONSIDERATION Informed Consent: This study accommodated participants who were qualified for the criteria of respondents, there was no forcing of participants. The researcher also established a formal consent in order for the participants to have an overview about the study. Confidentiality: And most of all, confidentiality was guaranteed to protect the privacy of the participants, this is by ensuring that their personal information and data are kept confidential. The results were coded or anonymized to remove identifying details when presenting or publishing the results. Right to withdraw any time: This study also ensured that participation in the research is entirely voluntary, which means that participants have the right to withdraw at any time. Safety: Minimization of any harm was also observed. Data Management: The researcher also maintained clear and open communication with participants throughout the study. And provided the much-needed data in accordance with the clarity of the aimed result. Risk and Benefits: Lastly, the respondents were also informed about the risk especially about the data collection and were enlightened about the benefits that they can get about the study. Plagiarism. The researcher rejected plagiarism or fabrication during every stage of the research. The researcher made sure the accuracy of every information gathered. Furthermore, the report has no instances of plagiarism. Additionally, the researcher did see to it that every one of the references are carefully mentioned. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS This chapter presented the findings of the study based on the data gathered from the interviews amongst the informants. The results of the study were presented in three sections: Initiatives on peace and security done by the various sectors in Pikit; BARMM governments participation on the escalating crimes in Pikit; and Actions, policy alternatives, and programs done by the various sectors. This study investigated the insightful experiences and perspectives shared by a diverse group of participants from the various sectors in Pikit, North Cotabato. This study centers around individuals holding their esteemed positions in their respective fields, making a positive impact on the overall landscape of Pikit. In this study, the researcher engaged with a total of 5 participants, each of whom has gained a wide range of knowledge and experiences spanning 2-5 years in their respective roles. As we all know, interviews with expert key informants requires substantial preparation by the researchers (Harvey, 2011). Understanding the informants’ background and expertise is essential to both gaining access to the expert and obtaining useful information (Mikeez, 2012). This study allowed the researcher to draw upon their valuable insights and experiences, offering a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and challenges in the municipality. In this study, the researcher discovered the initiatives and the role of the various sectors in the Municipality of Pikit, the cooperation, the effectiveness, and the challenges in the face of the escalating crimes. Furthermore, this study mainly focused on the initiatives, BARMM cooperation, policy and its effectiveness. Table 2. Initiatives on peace and security done by the various sectors in Pikit Concept Probed Core ideas Global themes Initiatives on peace and security done by the various sectors in Pikit Promoting peace and security, ensuring public safety and collaborating with one another Efforts on maintaining and sustaining peace Program initiatives of sectors in maintaining peace and security and being accountable Promoting peace and security, ensuring public safety and collaborating with one another Primarily, in terms of preventing crime, it's not just up to the courts and government agencies the role of Municipalities in urban management is also crucial. A study by Modaberi (2015) suggests that when municipalities organize city areas and plan for prevention, it helps stop criminals from gathering and prevents potential criminals from showing their individual capabilities influenced by the social environment. As presented in the results of this study, one of the initiatives created by the municipality of Pikit, North Cotabato is that they served as the one who organized different councils and promulgate plans to ensure public safety and other programs. As shown in the narrative of the informants below, drawn from 5 participants, 2 of them stated a similar response. Participant 1 stated as follows: Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9517 “The Local Chief Executive as the Chairman of the Municipal Peace and Order Council had properly organized said council by virtue of the power vested in him by law”. On the other hand, one of the results also showed that one of the initiatives by these sectors is to prioritize these people and to work alongside with the other sectors, to be able to provide their needs is their top priority. This was supported through the statement of participant 2: “My top priority here are the people, especially the other sectors, to provide and listen to them, and to be able support their needs”. However, as widely known, Pikit, a first-class municipality with a population of 154,000 according to the 2015 census, has experienced a series of shooting incidents in recent months, primarily stemming from family disputes. Fernandez (2019) commended the village defenders and local officials of Pikit for actively supporting the peace initiatives and programs of the provincial government. Examining the challenges encountered by various sectors in their collective efforts to uphold peace and order requires careful consideration and investigation. Key issues that prominently surfaced in this study include negligence of the law and a persistently high crime rate. It is noteworthy that despite these challenges, the involved sectors maintain an optimistic outlook in the face of adversity. Maxim Peralta, the chief of police in Pikit, contested the characterization of the municipality as it was considered a ghost town. Peralta acknowledged the insufficient manpower of the local police force to fully secure the town. Additionally, a vlogger shared images of deserted streets with the statement: "The Municipality of Pikit, North Cotabato is like this now. There are no more people because of the daily killings. Hopefully, this conflict will be resolved soon." While Sultan acknowledged peace and order issues in the town, including killings, he emphasized that the local government is actively addressing these concerns. However, he clarified that the killings did not occur on a daily basis. In August, authorities attributed at least eight separate killings in the locality to rido or clan war (Mindanews, 2022). This only shows how hard it is for these sectors to contain the situation in Pikit, as shown in the narratives of the informants below, drawn from 5 participants, 4 participants stated a similar response that the most challenging thing they are facing in the municipality are the riding in tandems. Participant 1 stated: “The most prevalent is the riding in Tandem killers which perpetuate in area where check points of law enforcer in a distance. “ On the other hand, one of the participants also believed that these crimes are a result of negligence and disobedience. This was affirmed by the statement of participant 5: “There are lot of challenges here because most people don’t follow the rules from our Municipality, some also doesn’t really care about the things that they are doing.” Moreover, the Municipal Police Station (MPS) plays a crucial role as one of the security forces in Pikit, tasked with regulating and preserving peace and order, a pivotal element for public safety. A study by NEDA (2022) yielded comparable results, highlighting the importance of increasing police presence to uphold peace and order. Consequently, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is committed to meeting the standard police-to-population ratio to significantly enhance public safety. Additionally, the government aims to build more police stations in each community to reinforce and broaden their presence, thereby enhancing various programs and activities. This was supported through the statement of participant 3: “The PNP shall enforce the law, prevent and control crimes, maintain peace and order, and ensure public safety and internal security with the active support of the community Police typically are responsible for maintaining public order and safety, enforcing the law, and preventing, detecting, and investigating criminal activities. These functions are known as policing. Police are often also entrusted with various licensing and regulatory activities.” Nevertheless, as indicated in the findings of Bacongo (2023), police officers and other authorities acknowledged that preserving peace and order in Pikit poses inherent difficulties due to its geographical location. This shows that making their initiatives effective and maintaining peace and order in Pikit is a lot of work and a challenging task. This was affirmed by the statement of participant 3: Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9524 Figure 3. Thematic Network of BARMM Governments Participation in the Escalating Crimes of Pikit Table 4. Actions, Policy Alternatives, and Programs Done by the Various Sectors Concept Probed Core ideas Global theme Actions, policy alternatives, and programs done by the various sectors Military and Police forces work alongside with one another through joint operations Sectors active contribution and collaboration in maintaining peace and order Enhanced communication services through cooperation and committees Security forces and other government sectors work alongside each other through joint operations Military and Police forces work alongside with one another through joint operations Primarily, the results presented in table 3 highlight the close collaboration among various sectors, particularly the military and police forces, especially in diverse operations. The coordination observed underscores their dedication and responsibilities to work alongside fellow law enforcement officials. The success and effectiveness of their collaboration have been evident in managing incidents effectively. A comparable incident in Pikit, as reported by JournalOnline (2022), involved the intervention of an Army contingent from the 90th Infantry (Bigkis-Lahi) Battalion in pacifying a "rido" or clan war between two conflicting Moro groups in Sitio Galigayanan, part of Macabual village in Pikit, Cotabato. The Commanding Officer of 90IB, in conjunction with local police, officials from the Pikit local government unit, members of the municipal peace and order council, and Moro elders, worked on negotiations to resolve the conflict and prevent further clashes between the warring groups. Major General Roy M Galido, Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9525 Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, promptly instructed personnel to collaborate with local police and other security forces to activate mechanisms aimed at peacefully addressing the conflict causing disturbances in the localities. This instance underscores the significance of collaboration between these law enforcement entities, highlighting their essential role as first responders and to various incidents affecting peace and order in localities. This was affirmed in the statement of participant 1: “Law enforcers and AFP jointly conduct random checkpoints in different areas of Pikit to include SGA barangays.” Regarding the BARMM's collaboration with the military and police forces, their support and cooperation were extended on a broader scale in 2022. Local executives, the security sector, and Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez, Jr. joined forces to collectively address persistent security issues in Bangsamoro barangays in Cotabato province. Galvez, speaking at Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao del Norte, shared that their dialogue at the Cotabato provincial capitol in Kidapawan City was productive, fueled by the strong commitment of participants to support endeavors aimed at maintaining law and order in troubled barangays in Pikit and Aleosan. The forum, conducted at the Cotabato provincial capitol in Kidapawan City, was collaboratively facilitated by Galvez, Mendoza, and the government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao through its Ministry of the Interior and Local Government. Galvez expressed gratitude to Mendoza and Sinarimbo for their continuous support of peace and security programs for municipal executives, the Army's 602nd Infantry Brigade, and the police in "security-challenged" barangays in Pikit and Aleosan, collectively designated as BARMM's Special Geographic Area, or SGA (Unson, 2022). In contrast to this study, one of the results of this study shows the strengthened collaboration between BARMM and other security forces because of this initiative programs done by the BARMM officials. This was affirmed by the statement of participant 4: “These different sectors specifically the barangay captains, we have different baryo chairman at different barangays. We have a lot of connections to our military forces and police so that in case of emergencies, we have an immediate response.” In addition, the police and military forces each bring distinct capabilities to the forefront, exemplified by their roles in Pikit. The police, dedicated to upholding law and order within civilian communities, handle daily policing activities, investigations, and community interactions. On the other hand, the military is equipped to address larger-scale security threats, offering expertise in areas such as border security, counter-terrorism, and response to major crises. Their collaboration ensures a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to a range of security challenges. The coordination between police and military forces is of utmost importance. The military's logistical capabilities, rapid deployment, and disaster response proficiency complement the police's local knowledge and community engagement. This cooperative effort ensures a prompt and effective response to emergencies, minimizing harm and aiding in recovery. A parallel incident occurred in 2019 through a joint operation conducted by security forces in Pikit, where six suspected criminals were apprehended in a collaborative military and police operation in Pikit town, North Cotabato. The suspects were implicated in activities such as gun-for-hire, vehicle theft, and extortion in the town and neighboring areas. Confiscated items included two M16 rifles, an M1 Garand rifle, a homemade caliber .30 rifle, two M19 pistols, a hand grenade, a bolo knife, assorted magazines, and various ammunition. Joint Task Force Central Commander Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon emphasized the significance of the arrest in ongoing investigations related to the increasing number of shooting incidents and other criminal activities in Pikit. The operation, led by Joint Task Force Central's 7th Infantry Battalion and North Cotabato Provincial Field Unit of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-12, underscores the active involvement of these security forces in addressing persistent security challenges in Pikit. Their collaboration and commitment to their respective duties demonstrate their concerted efforts to serve and maintain public safety (ABS-CBN, 2019). This was affirmed by the statement of participant 2: “Actually, our MPS here in Pikit is active. Our province also has their police that they assigned here, we also have our SAFF from national SAFF, and also the 90ib. Furthermore, when it comes to intensifying focus on a specific locality, a participant highlighted that security measures, particularly in the Poblacion area, are more stringent than in other areas. This heightened vigilance is attributed to the fact that most crime incidents occur in that area, prompting increased attention to public safety in Poblacion. Notably, in a recent operation in Pikit, Cotabato, the collaborative efforts of 111SAC, 112SAC, 11SAB, 1203rd Mobile Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12, and Mindanao Area Police Intelligence Office led to the successful apprehension of an individual involved in the heinous crime of Multiple Murder on August 31, 2023, at the Comelec Building in Brgy. Poblacion, Pikit, Cotabato (PNP, 2023). This was affirmed by the statement of participant 5: Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9526 “When we look at Poblacion, we are very alert here because most of the crimes are happening here. So, we have our Police to monitor. And we have our Barangay who’s also extending their efforts to lessen the crimes. In other words, we are doing our best to solve these problems.” Sectors active contribution and collaboration in maintaining peace and order Based on the results of this study, drawn from narratives of the participants, out of 5 of the participants, all of them have stated that these sectors work alongside with one another when it comes to peace and security in the area. The collaborative synergy among these various sectors working hand in hand towards crime prevention is a testament to the multifaceted approach required to ensure community safety and security. Law enforcement agencies, community organizations, are among the diverse sectors that play pivotal roles in this collective effort. The response from one of the participants of the above-mentioned similar responses: “Several sectors contribute to crime prevention by serving as witnesses, intervening in attempted offenses, taking precautions to prevent the theft of one’s property, and establishing and enforcing guidelines for the behavior of one’s children.” Moreover, one participant also stated that the collaboration between LGU, Police and Military forces play a significant role as one of the collaborative efforts in Pikit, North Cotabato. This was supported by participant 1: “BLGU use as force multiplier with PNP and AFP.” In addition, this study also found out the roles of the Barangay captains and BARMM government when it comes to the coordination on the incidents in the locality, one participant mentioned that the barangay captains are mostly the one who initiates action and they are actively in close coordination with one another with the presence of the leaders in BARMM, for them to discuss the problems and the alternatives. This was affirmed by the statement of participant 4: “As we all know, our barangay captains are very aggressive where in fact sometimes, they are being called out by our high-ranking officials here in BARMM to inform them and keep them updated about the things that they should do and to have a good cooperation between BARMM and Local sectors”. However, this study found out that despite all these collaborative efforts by these sectors to act in times of emergencies, one of the participants has stated that all these actions are still not enough to capture and solve these problems, which in fact is true, because Pikit is still considered a dangerous place given that these problems is happening and still happening for a long time, where it created a narrative to everyone as a locality with an unending crimes. This was affirmed by the statement of participant 5: “We have different committees here, committee for peace and order specifically. But we can’t really say that we can solve these problems immediately. We also have our CCTV, but we can’t really identify these perpetrators, and sometimes, we can identify them but they are nowhere to be found.” Enhanced communication services through cooperation and committees Based on the findings of this study, a majority of participants expressed a shared response that different sectors have established distinct committees to act in times of emergencies, a crucial necessity in the locality, particularly in Pikit. In the context of emergency preparedness, an adaptable and cooperative approach is deemed essential for an effective response and recovery. Recognizing the distinctive challenges each sector may encounter during crises, various sectors have proactively formed specialized committees. These committees, designed to address the specific needs of their respective sectors, operate as active entities, collaborating to enhance resilience and ensure prompt and organized responses during emergency situations. This was affirmed by the statement of respondent 2: “Here in Barangay, we have a team assigned for emergency purposes so that they can respond immediately, I have committee in charge.” On the other hand, on the side of the BARMM government, they also have their own committee in charge when it comes to emergency actions in order for them to cooperate to any needed operations on their designated areas. This was affirmed by participant 4: Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9527 “Here in MILF, we have designated personalities, this is what we call the technical working group, and we formed this group for them to be informed about the leaders from the different sectors. It creates consultation about their needs, after the time frame, we consolidate and validate these results from our technical working group to make this as our guideline to resolve the different problems.” Moreover, one of the participants also discussed that these law enforcers are easy to reach out when it comes to requesting for security assistance and any important meetings. This was affirmed by the statement of participant 2: “Actually, when we have any activities here, we always do request our Police, SAFF, and our 90ib’s for security.” Another participant also supported by saying: “Our Municipality has these what we call the Municipal Peace and Order Council, it’s an activity to gather different sectors like Police, Military, Barangay, and different Commanders. The goal is to talk about the situations that we have here. So, it’s our mayor is the one in charge here in order to create solutions.” Additionally, the study's results highlight the crucial role of Policemen as the primary line of defense and initial responders in addressing various criminal activities. This underscores their unwavering commitment to their responsibilities in the locality of Pikit. In a related study conducted in March 2023, incidents involving policemen in Pikit were examined. Authorities in the area are actively pursuing lawless elements who engaged in a confrontation with policemen over the weekend, resulting in the death of three gunmen and the injury of a police officer. Lt. Col. John Miridel Calinga, the town police chief, mentioned their collaboration with peacekeeping teams in all 42 barangays of the town to apprehend members of the group who managed to evade arrest. "Our barangay peacekeeping action teams are on high alert, establishing checkpoints at all possible exit points of the town," He stated in an interview (Tabugoc, 2023). This was also affirmed by the statement of participant 3: “On top of the PNP’s mandate to enforce the law is the duty to perform public safety operations to save lives during emergencies. In the event of natural calamity and disaster, the PNP shall act as the first responder in the affected area in order to provide area security and support in the conduct of search, rescue and retrieval operations.” Furthermore, the findings underscore the active involvement of the Local Government Unit (LGU) in emergency response actions within Pikit, North Cotabato. In a similar study focused on LGUs conducted by ReliefWeb (2014), named after the late DILG secretary Jesse Robredo, the Jesse Robredo Institute of Governance (JMRIG) takes the lead in managing the project's capacitybuilding activities for beneficiaries. This includes the installation and roll-out of a monitoring system among local Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to assess LGU performance. This is achieved by enhancing the capacities of both LGUs and civil society organizations to collaborate effectively in development planning, project implementation, and policymaking. In contrast with this study to the results in table 3, we can conclude that the LGU is doing its job as one of the sectors in Pikit, North Cotabato. Being able to provide and step up to their respective role is what the community expects them to be, given the situation in Pikit, North Cotabato. This was supported by the statement of participant 1: “LGU provided communication and additional patrol cars, an ambulance to respond to any call for an emergency.” Lastly, the results underscore the crucial role of community engagement in achieving effective outcomes. In a comparable study by Ball (2015), it is emphasized that governments should actively involve civil society as a full partner in the process of democratizing security sector governance. Creating a safe and secure environment for individuals, communities, and states is a fundamental prerequisite for sustainable economic, political, and social development, as well as conflict mitigation. In the absence of democratic checks and balances, security forces tasked with protecting citizens and the state may suffer from mismanagement, ineffectiveness, and potential misuse for partisan political motives. Insufficient governance of the security sector can erode the state's monopoly over the legitimate use of force. Civil society worldwide has made significant strides in influencing governments more broadly. In contrary to this, one of the participants emphasized the significance of community engagement in maintaining peace and order in a specific area. This was the statement of participant 3: Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9528 “Strong relationships of mutual trust between police agencies and the communities they serve are critical to maintaining public safety and effective policing. Police officials rely on the cooperation of community members to provide information about crime in their neighborhoods, and to work with the police to devise solutions to crime and disorder problems. Similarly, community members’ willingness to trust the police depends on whether they believe that police actions reflect community values and incorporate the principles of procedural justice and legitimacy.” Figure 4. Thematic Network of Actions, Policy Alternatives, and Programs Done by the Various Sectors SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMENDATION This chapter exhibits the summary and the findings of the study, conclusions drawn from the data and the recommendations for further studies related to this topic. The case study focused on Pikit, North Cotabato, presenting a compelling finding on how various sectors, particularly those in highranking positions, collaborate closely to address the challenges of maintaining peace and order in a locality marked by a high crime rate. Employing the illustrative case study method, this qualitative research aims to understand the roles, initiatives, and cooperation among different sectors in Pikit. Purposive sampling was used to select five participants, each occupying significant positions within their respective sectors, including Police, Barangay officials, Municipal officials, BARMM officials, and LGU officials. Data collection involved interviews, with subsequent coding and thematic analysis applied to derive meaningful insights. The primary goal of this study was to comprehensively examine the initiatives of various sectors in Pikit and their collaborative efforts in response to the high crime rate. Additionally, the research evaluated the involvement of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9529 Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) government in addressing the challenges faced by Pikit. Importantly, the study addresses a crucial gap by exclusively gathering information from high-ranking officials in diverse sectors, ensuring the acquisition of valid and authoritative data. By shedding light on the initiatives, responsibilities, and collaborative endeavors of key stakeholders in Pikit, this study enhances our understanding of the dynamics shaping the municipality's development. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the initiatives and cooperation among these sectors, providing valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers interested in promoting effective multi-sectoral collaboration for community development. The study's findings demonstrate a notable exhibition of collaboration and shared responsibility among leaders in various sectors. It highlights that these sectors have acknowledged the urgency of the situation, forming a closely-knit network of cooperation in response. Additionally, the study reveals the multifaceted challenges faced by these sectors, with high crime rates being just one concern among several others encountered in their mission to ensure public safety. Regarding the roles and responsibilities of the different sectors in Pikit, North Cotabato, the study uncovers their diverse commitments and responsibilities. Participants emphasize that their foremost priority is the well-being of the people, emphasizing public service and peace maintenance. They view community needs not as an obligation but as a responsibility entrusted to them in their respective positions. The study also underscores the proactive nature of these sectors in crafting plans tailored to their specific areas of focus. Despite escalating crimes, the study emphasizes that the BARMM government remains dedicated to its goals and missions. Furthermore, the study reveals that these sectors are aware of Pikit's narrative as a place of persistent crimes. The findings highlight a coordinated approach to public safety and emergency response, particularly through joint operations involving the AFP, PNP, and law enforcement forces of BARMM. The study commends the establishment of committees across sectors, specifically designed for crime prevention and rapid emergency response. These committees serve as dynamic forums where stakeholders collaboratively plan and strategize for a synchronized and immediate response to potential threats. The research unveils a model of multi-sectoral collaboration, showcasing how joint operations and well-organized committees contribute to a robust local security infrastructure. However, on a less fortunate note, the study reveals that these sectors face challenges in making their security programs effective, with Pikit still being considered a "dangerous" locality. Additionally, the struggle to engage communities, earn trust, and ensure cooperation persists. Despite efforts from different sectors, the study acknowledges that Pikit continues to grapple with capturing and controlling perpetrators, posing an ongoing challenge even with committees, initiative programs, and CCTV cameras. On the other hand, this study represents an initial exploration into crime prevention, particularly in Pikit, North Cotabato, with a focus on multi-sectoral collaboration across various issues. Given the persisting danger in Pikit, the findings underscore the need to prioritize and enhance community engagement. The study suggests a call for transparent and inclusive communication among community officials and different sectors, acknowledging ongoing efforts to improve community engagement. The emphasis lies in establishing regular feedback channels and actively seeking public opinions to cultivate trust and partnerships between the community and security forces. By integrating local insights, concerns, and perceptions into the planning and execution of initiatives, a more thorough understanding of the ground-level situation can be attained. Furthermore, encouraging citizens to be proactive involves promoting awareness and community engagement through activities like neighborhood watch programs and safety workshops, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Modern crime prevention utilizes technology, informants, and community engagement for information gathering, incorporating surveillance systems and anonymous tip lines to build trust between the community and law enforcement. Increasing police visibility through regular patrols serves as a deterrent, reassuring the community and allowing officers to engage, gather information, and build positive relationships, contributing to a comprehensive strategy for creating safer neighborhoods. Furthermore, the study highlights a critical need for increased collaboration in security initiatives and the deployment of additional security forces, emphasizing various levels of cooperation with the National Government, Regional Government, BARMM, and the local government of Pikit. To address identified gaps, it is essential to enhance the connection between the Province of North Cotabato and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Pikit. The study strongly advocates for improved efforts from both the province and the LGU of Pikit to create a cohesive response to the challenges posed by high crime rates. Enhancing collaboration between the two entities will facilitate the development of a coordinated and effective security strategy, potentially involving additional resources, improved communication, and joint planning aligned with community needs. A reinforced partnership between the province and the LGU of Pikit will contribute to a seamless integration of security forces and resources, ensuring a more efficient and responsive security apparatus. The study underscores the importance of mutual support and coordination to maximize the impact of security measures, creating a safer environment. On a broader scale, given the prolonged danger and ongoing challenges in Pikit, the findings implied for a need to strengthen national government involvement in the area to address the urgent issue of escalating crimes. Drawing a parallel to a comparable situation Multi-Sectoral Initiatives of Peace and Security on the Unending Crimes: The Case of Pikit in South-Central Mindanao, Philippines IJSSHR, Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 www.ijsshr.in Page 9530 in Brazil in 2015, characterized by police strikes, violent protests, street crime, and armed conflict, which resulted in a high number of deaths, the Brazilian government responded by deploying its national security forces. The government employed assertive, sometimes lethal tactics to counter the increasing levels of instability and violence (Chavy, 2017). 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