17/12/2025
⚠️ Mahalagang Maunawaan ng Lahat⚠️
The Katarungang Pambarangay Law, also known as the Barangay Justice System, is a community-based dispute resolution mechanism in the Philippines. It is primarily governed by Sections 399-422 of Chapter 7, Title One, Book III of Republic Act No. 7160 (the Local Government Code of 1991), which replaced the earlier Presidential Decree No. 1508 of 1978.
Core Information
- Objectives: To resolve disputes speedily and affordably through dialogue, reduce court congestion, strengthen grassroots peace and order, and foster a culture of amicable settlement.
- Institutional Structure:
- Punong Barangay (Barangay Captain): Acts as the mandatory mediator and convenes the Lupon.
- Lupon Tagapamayapa: Composed of the Punong Barangay and 10-20 qualified residents, serving a 3-year term. It oversees conciliation processes and maintains records.
- Pangkat ng Tagapagkasundo: A 3-member panel chosen by parties (or by lot) to mediate if the Punong Barangay’s efforts fail.
- Jurisdiction: Covers most civil disputes and minor criminal offenses punishable by ≤1 year imprisonment or ≤₱5,000 fine, provided parties are natural persons residing in the same/municipality or adjoining barangays.
- Exemptions: Disputes involving the government, juridical entities, public officers acting in official capacity, serious crimes, cases needing urgent relief, and those barred by limitations.
- Process: If amicable settlement is reached, it has contractual force; if not, a Certificate to File Action (CFA) is issued, allowing parties to proceed to court.