RESOLVING CONFLICT: DISPUTE RESOLUTION MECHANISMS OF LUPONG TAGAPAYAMAPA IN SELECTED BARANGAYS OF MARIKINA CITY, PHILIPPINES

Authors

  • Elena P. Tuguinay Professor, Dr., Pamantasan Lungsod ng Marikina Marikina City, Philippines
  • Carlito C. Pijano Professor, Dr., Philippine College of Criminology Manila, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v13i4.6592

Keywords:

Lupong Tagapamayapa, barangay dispute resolution, grassroots conflict resolution

Abstract

Resolving conflict disputes resolution mechanisms of lupong tagapamayapa in selected barangays of Marikina City explores the practices and challenges faced by Lupong Tagapamayapa members in maintaining community harmony. Barangay dispute resolution, mandated by Philippine law, is an essential mechanism for fostering peace at the grassroots level. Using a transcendental phenomenological approach based delved into the lived experiences of 16 Lupong Tagapamayapa members from eight barangays in Marikina City. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of documents, ensuring a holistic understanding of their conflict resolution roles. The study identified five key themes: communal conflict resolution, challenges in conciliation, enhancing the Lupong Tagapamayapa system, shaping conciliators through experience, and experience-forged peacemakers. Findings revealed the Lupong Tagapamayapa’s community-centered approach, incorporating cultural sensitivity, communication strategies, and community-based solutions. Participants highlighted significant challenges, including managing strong emotions, ensuring compliance with agreements, and handling complex cases, emphasizing the need for continuous training, outreach, and systemic support to enhance their effectiveness. The research further illuminated how lived experiences enriched members' conflict resolution skills, deepened their understanding of cultural nuances, and fostered qualities such as empathy and resilience. These experiences shaped their roles as conciliators and strengthened their commitment to maintaining peace and order in their communities. In conclusion, the study underscores the vital role of the Lupong Tagapamayapa in grassroots conflict resolution, advocating for targeted enhancements to sustain their effectiveness. These findings provide a foundation for policymakers and community leaders to strengthen dispute resolution mechanisms, fostering more cohesive communities.

Author Biographies

  • Elena P. Tuguinay, Professor, Dr., Pamantasan Lungsod ng Marikina Marikina City, Philippines
    Dr. Elena P. Tuguinay is a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Criminology at De La Salle University–Dasmariñas, Cavite. She worked at St. Anne College Lucena, Inc. as a faculty member in the College of Criminology, and at EyeSpy Detectives and Investigators Co. as a private detective. She was previously designated as Program Head of the College of Criminology and Head of National Service Training Program (NSTP) and Community Extension at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, where she is presently serving as a full-time faculty member.
  • Carlito C. Pijano, Professor, Dr., Philippine College of Criminology Manila, Philippines

    Dr. Carlito C. Pijano is a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice major in Criminology at the University of Baguio. He has extensive exposure to the criminal justice field, where he taught in various universities and colleges in the National Capital Region, such as Pamantasan Lungsod ng Marikina, Immaculate Concepcion Institution, La Consolacion College, Metro Manila, and Republican College. He also serves as a guest lecturer at the Philippine National Police Academy.

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Published

2026-03-18

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 4 (2026)

Section

Articles

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