Administration of Indigenous Justice System of Ati Tribe: Narratives of Mediators
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.477Keywords:
Ati Tribe, Community Mediation, Cultural Sustainability, Indigenous Justice System, Legal Pluralism, Peacebuilding, Restorative Justice, Transformative MediationAbstract
This study explored the administration of the Indigenous Justice System of the Ati Tribe in Loay, Bohol through the narratives of tribal mediators. Anchored on Restorative Justice Theory, Legal Pluralism Theory, and Transformative Mediation Theory, the study examined the mediators’ experiences, coping strategies, and aspirations in resolving conflicts within the tribe. A qualitative research design using transcendental phenomenology was employed. Ten members of the Ati mediating council, including the Indigenous focal person, served as informants. Data were gathered through a validated interview guide and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that the mediators found purpose in community service and described a shift from punitive practices to peacebuilding through dialogue, advice, reconciliation, and respect. However, they also encountered challenges related to social change, generational differences, communication gaps, resistance among community members, and the influence of formal legal systems. The mediators coped through patience, empathy, resilience, barangay coordination, and commitment to community harmony. Their aspirations focused on preserving Ati language, identity, respect, forgiveness, youth participation, legal awareness, and stronger mediation capacity. The study concludes that the Ati Indigenous Justice System remains a culturally grounded and evolving community-based justice practice. The study supports SDG 16, SDG 10, SDG 11, and SDG 17 by promoting inclusive justice, reduced inequalities, sustainable communities, and institutional partnerships. Its sustainability impact lies in strengthening cultural preservation, community peacebuilding, governance responsiveness, and the recognition of Indigenous justice practices within broader legal and social systems.
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