Abstract
This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Lupong Tagapamayapa in mediating barangay level disputes in Lagro, Quezon City, in terms of accessibility and impartiality, procedural process, and timeliness of dispute resolution. Anchored on Conflict Resolution Theory, the research sought to answer whether respondents perceive the Lupon as effective in these areas and whether significant differences exist in their assessments when grouped according to demographic profile. The null hypothesis stated that there is no significant difference in the respondents’ assessment of the Lupon’s effectiveness across profile variables. The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design using a self-constructed survey questionnaire administered to fifty (50) respondents, composed of one (1)Barangay Chairman, fifteen (15) Lupon members, and thirty-four residents selected through random sampling. Data were analyzed using Percentage Distribution, 4-point Likert scale Weighted Mean, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Findings revealed that the majority of respondents assessed the Lupon Tagapamayapa as effective in terms of accessibility and impartiality, adherence to procedural process, and timeliness of dispute resolution, with most indicators receiving verbal interpretations of “Agree” to “Strongly Agree.” The results further indicated no significant difference in the assessment of effectiveness when respondents were grouped according to age, sex, civil status, educational attainment, and length of residency, thereby supporting the null hypothesis. Despite positive evaluations, identified challenges included non-cooperation of disputing parties, complex cases beyond barangay jurisdiction, and occasional delays in settlement compliance. The study concludes that the Lupong Tagapamayapa in Barangay Greater Lagro, Quezon City functions as an effective grassroots dispute resolution mechanism that promotes community harmony and reduces court congestion. It recommends enhanced training, clear procedural monitoring, and strengthened institutional support to sustain and further improve the delivery of barangay justice services.
Keywords: Barangay Justice System, Lupong Tagapamayapa, Katarungang Pambarangay, dispute resolution
