Theoretical Framework

Three key concepts were seen as vital in order to strengthen the theoretical foundation
of this research. The system theory by Krug et al. (2000) provides three components essential
in understanding and maintaining road safety, namely; environment, means of transport, and
human behavior. The environment aspect comprises of the natural and man-made environment,
as well as the transport networks. The second component deals with the volume and quality of
vehicles on the mode of transportation. Finally, the behavior of man consists of the demographic
characteristics of road users (age, sex, education, socioeconomic status, stage in life cycle,
etc.) the perception of risk, and behavior on the streets. In order to ensure traffic safety, a
system of highway codes and means of traffic enforcement are needed to govern the three
aforementioned components. This is deemed pertinent to the present study as the researchers
aim to understand the role that traffic enforcers in the city of Sorsogon play with respect to the
management and enforcement of rules and ordinances on road safety. It also seeks to examine
the different aspects that affect the proper implementation of traffic regulations.

Another principle from which this study seeks to establish a framework is the principle
that proper mechanisms for enforcement is necessary to ensure the effectivity of the existing
rules and regulations on road safety (Femi, 2006). This means that in order for a system to be
truly efficient and responsive to its objectives, it does not solely rely on the enacted ordinances
or established regulations. It is also necessary that the enforcers of these said laws are
equipped with the command and competency to compel obedience from the people. Femi’s
observations can be applied on the current study as the main variable deals with the impact of
the SK-3 Program. The researchers will look into whether the said initiative by the local
government is effective in controlling the traffic situation, mitigating road accidents, ensuring
road safety, and promoting public education on proper road use.

Finally, the study by Espada et al. (2008) argues that the assessment of the technical
know-how of the traffic management unit is crucial. It is imperative that the officers deployed to
man the streets possess the needed knowledge, competency, and skills. It has been mentioned
in the discussion on related literatures and studies how vital it is that the enforcers of traffic laws
are competent enough and equipped with the necessary know-how prior to deputization.
Training and information inadequacies, according to some studies and findings (including that of
the Commission on Audit), show links between inefficient road management and worsening
traffic situation. This concept will guide the researchers as the assess the effectiveness of the
SK-3 Program to the traffic management of Sorsogon City.
Theoretical Paradigm

Figure 1

Regulations
accompanied by
Effective
Enforcement (Femi,
2006)
Technical Know-
How of Traffic
System Theory
Enforcers
(Krug et al., 2000)
Necessary (Espada
et al., 2008)

The Impact of
the SK-3
Program to the
Traffic
Management of
Sorsogon City

Krug, et al (2000). The global burden of injuries. Am J Public Health. Apr;90(4):523-6. doi:
10.2105/ajph.90.4.523. PMID: 10754963; PMCID: PMC1446200.

Lidasan, Hussein & Espada, Ian & Richmund, Mark & De, M & Ph, Leon. (2009). A Needs
Assessment of Transport Planning and Traffic Management of Local Cities:: The Case of the
Philippines. Journal of the Eastern Asia Society for Transportation Studies. 7.

Espada, et al. (2008). A needs assessment of transport planning and traffic management of
local cities: The case of the Philippines. Journal of the Eastern Asia Society for Transportation
Studies. 7.

Borja, et al. (2014). The effectiveness of traffic personnel in Tagum City. Retrieved from
https://www.scribd.com/document/238484974/Traffic-Effectiveness-in-Tagum-City