DILG BATANGAS – Aimed at enhancing local government units (LGUs) understanding of the Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) Law, DILG Batangas conducted a series of training sessions titled “Understanding the Katarungang Pambarangay Law: Key to Peace and Order in Communities” which plays an essential role in maintaining peace and resolving disputes within communities. The sessions focused on the history of the KP Law, the Barangay Judicial System, and the responsibilities of Barangay Lupon Tagapamayapa members.

DILG Batangas Provincial Director Allan Benitez, in his opening remarks, stressed that the Katarungang Pambarangay empowers barangay officials to resolve disputes within their communities – promoting peace. On the first day, LGOO VI Maria Isabel C. Llanto from DILG Malvar led the discussion for the participants from LGU Cuenca and LGU Tingloy, Batangas.

Day 2 featured representatives from LGU Balete and LGU San Luis, Batangas, and Day 3 for LGU Calaca, Batangas. LGOO VI Brian B. Ballon from DILG Rosario served as Resource Speaker on both sessions.

The sessions covered Katarungang Pambarangay system’s role as the first-level mechanism for dispute resolution, preventing minor cases from escalating to higher courts. Rules of jurisdiction and the appropriate venues for resolving disputes at the barangay level were discussed in detail. Administrative requirements were also emphasized, highlighting the importance of accurate documentation for transparency and accountability in dispute resolution. Additionally, the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards (LTIA) were introduced, motivating barangay officials to excel in community mediation and dispute resolution.

The training concluded with a post-test to assess participants’ understanding, equipping barangay officials (Punong Barangay, Secretaries, and Lupong Tagapamayapa members) with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement the Katarungang Pambarangay Law, contributing to peace and order in their communities.