BaBaLU: A Bawal Bastos Law among University Stakeholders Leading Towards Safe Spaces Using K-Means Clustering Algorithm

Abstract

Creating a secure and inclusive academic setting has become a necessity in an era shaped by rapid technological innovations and shifting standards of society, particularly among students. This study developed a web and mobile application to enhance safety at Cavite State University - Main for all university stakeholders, aligned with the broader mission of higher education institutions (HEIs) and in fostering individual well-being and strengthens university’s integrity and inclusivity, in accordance with Republic Act No. 11313, the Safe Spaces Act, or the Bawal Bastos Law. The web application allows stakeholders to anonymously report gender-based sexual harassment, while the mobile application enhances user safety by providing real-time hotspot data and recommending safer alternative routes. Using the K-Means clustering algorithm, the system analyzes incident data by location, date, and time to accurately identify hotspots, provides safer paths, and describe safety levels for specific areas, thereby improving safety outcomes. The application received a “Strongly Agree” rating in a modified ISO/IEC 25010 Software Product Quality evaluation, indicating full satisfaction with its performance among respondents. The evaluation results were tabulated and statistically processed using mean and standard deviation to ensure objective assessment of software quality characteristics. The feedback and results indicate that Gender and Development-Resource Center's needs are being effectively met, demonstrating its dedication to establishing a safer and more responsive academic environment.