CRISIS AND DISASTER RESPONSE PREPAREDNESS AMONG CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS: BASIS FOR AN INSTITUTIONAL CRISIS RESPONSE PROGRAM

The increasing frequency and complexity of natural and human-induced disasters necessitate strengthened crisis preparedness among future public safety professionals. This study assessed the crisis and disaster awareness and preparedness of 371 criminology students at Our Lady of the Pillar College–San Manuel, Inc., Isabela. Using a quantitative descriptive-comparative and correlational design, data were analyzed through ANOVA and chi-square tests to determine differences and relationships among key variables. Findings revealed that students demonstrated high levels of awareness, particularly in recognizing disaster types, prioritization, and recovery efforts, and moderate levels of preparedness in areas such as knowledge sharing and trust in institutional response systems. However, gaps were identified in maintaining personal emergency kits, first aid proficiency, emotional readiness, and home-based preparedness discussions. No significant differences in awareness and preparedness were found when grouped by age, year level, and prior training, although gender differences indicated higher preparedness among male students. Exposure to diverse and multi-hazard scenarios showed a significant positive relationship with preparedness levels (p < .05), suggesting experiential learning enhances readiness. Institutional resources were generally rated effective; however, deficiencies were noted in psychological support services and adequacy of emergency equipment. The findings underscore the need for a structured, practice-oriented, and student-centered crisis response program emphasizing hands-on training, enhanced resources, professional partnerships, and mental health support. Strengthening these areas will better align criminology education with the real-world demands of disaster and emergency response.