experiences of K-9 handlers in contraband detection at Cebu Port authority [Pier 1 and Pier 3] Arcilla, James Mickel W. creator author. Codo, Jona Jane A. author. Celestial Kyle Vrayam U. author. Velarde, Jonalyn B. Sumaylo, Adrian Ross G. author. text ph Cebu City, Philippines University of Cebu-Banilad c2024 2024 monographic eng xi, 169 pages : illustrations (black and white) ; 28 cm. "K-9 has been an integral part of crime detection and prevention for centuries and has been used in law enforcement. It is evident nowadays that K-9s are essential at every entry point, like seaports, in checking the luggage of passengers arriving and departing from a certain locality. However, there were some instances where the K-9 units were not able to detect contraband and smuggled items. The researchers, who are third-year criminology students, aim to explore the experiences of K-9 in contraband detection at entry points here in the Philippines, specifically at Cebu Port Authority Pier I and Pier 3. This study applied the qualitative phenomenological research design. The study used a data triangulation technique to ensure the validity and reliability of the data gathered. The research informants are five (5) K-9 handlers, two (2) from Pier 1 and two (2) from Pier 3 in K-9 units division, and one (1) from Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency [PDEA] Regional Office 7 assigned at Cebu Port Authority [CPA]. The informants must be professional and have at least three (3) years of work experience as a K-9 handler in Pier 1 and Pier 3 and currently working at Cebu Port Authority. The study found that K-9 handlers at Cebu Port Authority experienced and faced challenges in detecting explosives and illicit drugs, with the need for detailed recording and understanding of K-9 behavioral cues being essential for successful detection. Handlers need effective coping strategies to manage the challenges of their roles. They cope well with improved training and refreshment courses, and conditioning. The findings highlighted the importance of improved training. emotional support, and process enhancements to ensure handlers remain effective in their work while also safeguarding their health. These can help handlers perform at their best while minimizing the toll the job takes on them." Adult adult James Mickel W. Arcilla, Jona Jane A, Codo, Kyle Vrayam U. Celestial, Jonalyn B. Velarde, Adrian Ross G. Sumaylo. Includes bibliographical references. Pableo-Borbon, Deniebelle College of Criminology Criminology Text in English Criminology Law enforcement practices Port security and crime prevention strategies Port security operations Effectiveness and challenges Inter-agency coordination Qualitative phenomenological approach K-9 units Experience Contraband detection University of Cebu-Banilad 250805 20250805094945.0