Effectiveness of Local Dispute Resolution Through Lupong Tagapamayapa System
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.547Keywords:
Lupong Tagapamayapa, Barangay Dispute Resolution, Arbitration, Conciliation, Mediation, Community Governance, Peace and Order, Katarungang PambarangayAbstract
This study assessed the effectiveness of local dispute resolution through the Lupong Tagapamayapa System in Barangay Kematu, T’Boli, South Cotabato, focusing on arbitration, conciliation, mediation, and the overall performance of Lupong Tagapamayapa members. The study was anchored on Restorative Justice Theory, Social Capital Theory, Conflict Resolution Theory, and the Input-Process-Output framework. A descriptive-quantitative research design was used, with data gathered through a survey questionnaire from thirty purposively selected respondents who had direct experience with the Barangay Justice System. The data were analyzed using weighted mean to determine respondents’ level of agreement on the effectiveness of the dispute resolution mechanisms and the performance of the Lupong Tagapamayapa. Findings showed that arbitration was rated effective, particularly in providing faster resolution, confidentiality, and clarity of decisions. Conciliation was also rated effective, especially in ensuring compliance with agreements and preserving relationships, while mediation was effective in reducing hostility, promoting reconciliation, and maintaining community trust. The Lupong Tagapamayapa members were likewise rated effective, particularly in helping disputing parties reach settlements, following the Katarungang Pambarangay Law, and demonstrating competence in handling disputes. However, areas needing improvement included timeliness, documentation, perceived neutrality, communication, participant satisfaction, and post-resolution monitoring. The study concludes that the Lupong Tagapamayapa System functions as an accessible, timely, cost-efficient, and community-centered mechanism for maintaining peace and order. The findings support SDG 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions and also relate to SDG 11 on sustainable communities. The study contributes to governance, institutional, social, and community sustainability by strengthening grassroots justice, public trust, and peaceful conflict resolution.
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