Advisers

Kathleen Ann Jabien - Bagon, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study aimed to determine how effective the Barangay Justice System is in promoting peaceful settlements in Barangay Baesa, Quezon City. Specifically, it looked at the system’s effectiveness regarding service accessibility, case load management, transparency and accountability, and awareness of the Katarungang Pambarangay Law. It also examined whether there is a significant difference in the respondents’ assessments based on their demographic profiles and aimed to identify the challenges in improving the Barangay Justice System. The study followed a null hypothesis stating that there is no significant difference in the respondents’ assessments of the Barangay Justice System based on their profile variables. A quantitative descriptive research design was used. The respondents included fifty individuals: five barangay officials, fifteen Lupon Tagapamayapa members, and thirty community residents of Barangay Baesa, Quezon City. Data were collected using a self-constructed survey questionnaire that experts validated. Statistical tools like frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and appropriate inferential tests were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the respondents strongly agreed that the Barangay Justice System is effective in terms of service accessibility, case load management, transparency and accountability, and awareness of the Katarungang Pambarangay Law. However, the findings also revealed several challenges, such as occasional personal influence during mediation, a lack of private venues for hearings, delays in case resolution, and limited compliance with mediation agreements. Additionally, the analysis indicated significant differences in the respondents’ assessments of the system’s effectiveness based on their demographic profiles, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. In conclusion, the Barangay Justice System in Barangay Baesa, Quezon City, is generally effective in resolving community conflicts and promoting peaceful settlements. Nevertheless, continuous improvement is needed to tackle the identified challenges. Based on the findings, a proposed campaign program focusing on community awareness, skill-building, transparency, and better case management was developed. This program aims to strengthen public trust, improve system efficiency, and maintain peace and order at the barangay level.

Keywords

Barangay Justice System, peaceful settlement, Lupong Tagapamayapa, mediation, Barangay Baesa