Advisers

Kathleen Ann Jabien - Bagon, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the strengthening of the Barangay Justice System in improving community dispute resolution in Barangay Tandang Sora, Quezon City. Specifically, it examined the system’s effectiveness in terms of fairness and impartiality, community trust and satisfaction, and accessibility. The study employed a descriptive quantitative research design. Data were gathered through a researcher-made survey questionnaire administered to one hundred (100) respondents, consisting of forty (40) community residents, forty (40) barangay officials, and twenty (20) Lupon Tagapamayapa members. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage distribution, weighted mean, and t-test were used to analyze the data. The instrument measured respondents perceptions of fairness and impartiality, community trust and satisfaction, accessibility, and the challenges encountered in the implementation of the Barangay Justice System. The findings revealed that respondents strongly agreed that the Barangay Justice System in Barangay Tandang Sora is effective in resolving disputes fairly and impartially. The highest-rated indicators emphasized the absence of bias in resolving disputes and the prioritization of both parties’ welfare during mediation. Community trust and satisfaction also obtained a high overall weighted mean, indicating strong confidence in barangay officials and the dispute resolution process. In terms of accessibility, respondents agreed that the Barangay Hall location and services were convenient and reachable. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in the respondents’ assessments, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The study highlights that strengthening the Barangay Justice System significantly contributes to effective and peaceful community dispute resolution. Fairness, transparency, accessibility, and community participation are essential factors in sustaining trust and confidence in barangay-level justice. The findings suggest that continuous, legal orientation seminars, improved accessibility measures, and stronger information dissemination campaigns are necessary to further enhance the effectiveness of the system. Strengthening these areas ensures that the Barangay Justice System remains a reliable, community-centered, and restorative mechanism for maintaining harmony and order.

Keywords

accessibility, Barangay Justice System, Katarungang Pambarangay, Community Trust, Fairness, community dispute resolution