ASSESSING THE AWARENESS OF PACIFICATION COMMITTEES' STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION AMONG BARANGAY OFFICIALS AND CONSTITUENTS: GROUNDWORK FOR A SPECIALIZED TRAINING PROGRAM

Abstract

This study analyzes the level of awareness of the barangay (the smallest administrative division in the Philippines) regarding the Lupong Tagapamayapa, an informal justice system established under the Local Government Code (Republic Act No. 7160). The study is situated in selected barangays in the third district of Cagayan, and was motivated by observations of a low awareness level and adherence to the Lupong Tagapamayapa provisions in one such barangay. The research used a descriptive research design to collect, present, and describe data concerning the current status of the Lupong Tagapamayapa. A researcher-made structured questionnaire with a 5 point-likert scale, based on the mandates in Sections 399 to 422 of the Local Government Code, was administered to participants after validation by research experts. Data collected was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study concludes that that the members of Lupong Tagapamayapa and constituents display a very high level of awareness about the structure, functions, and procedures of the committee. The committee members are well-versed with the requirements for their roles, the importance of their residency, their terms of office, the regulations regarding termination of membership, and the procedures for amicable settlement. The constituents have demonstrated significant awareness of the Lupon's creation, terms of office, vacancies, administrative supervision, subject matter for amicable settlement, and the procedure for such settlements. However, certain areas like the provision regarding a Lupon member's change in workplace and the timeframe for protesting a settlement require more attention and awareness. Based on the findings, an enhanced training program must be implemented. While the members of the Lupong Tagapamayapa are generally well-informed, there are areas, such as the implications of changing one's place of work and the process following resignation, that could benefit from further training and orientation.