Authors : Princepe Erjon Donato; Christian Ezperanzate; Edwin Ramirez, Jr.; Bradley James Vicente; Peter Almarez

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 5 - May

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/mrmkje72

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/55wmfrky

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26may1919

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : This study examined the knowledge and practices of barangay officials in dispute resolution, focusing on their application of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) within the Katarungang Pambarangay system in Santiago City. Specifically, it assessed the respondents’ demographic profile, level of knowledge, extent of practices, challenges encountered, and perceived training needs, and proposed measures to enhance their competencies. A quantitative descriptive research design was employed, involving 146 randomly selected barangay officials from a population of 232. Data were collected using a validated and reliable survey questionnaire and analyzed through frequency, percentage, and weighted mean. Findings revealed that respondents were generally middle-aged, male, college-educated, and serving as barangay councilors with moderate years of service, but most had not attended formal dispute resolution training. Despite this, they demonstrated a high level of knowledge in ADR principles, including mediation, conciliation, legal procedures, and case documentation. Their practices were also found to be effective, particularly in maintaining neutrality, ensuring proper documentation, and facilitating communication between disputing parties. However, respondents encountered significant challenges such as community interference, time constraints, limited legal resources, and difficulties in handling emotional or uncooperative disputants. Furthermore, a high level of training need was identified in areas such as legal frameworks, mediation skills, communication, and case management. The study concludes that while barangay officials possess strong foundational knowledge and demonstrate effective dispute resolution practices, gaps remain due to operational and capacity-related challenges. Hence, a structured three-day training program is proposed to enhance their competencies and improve the overall effectiveness of community-based dispute resolution. The findings contribute to strengthening grassroots justice systems and promoting peaceful and cohesive communities.

Keywords : Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Katarungang Pambarangay, Dispute Resolution, Training Needs.

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