BALANGA CITY, BATAAN – Officials from 138 barangays across Bataan participated in a three-day training related to the Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) Law, conducted by the Department of Justice’s Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution (OADR) from February 26 to 28, 2025, at Crown Royale Hotel, Balanga City.
In partnership with DILG Bataan and the Provincial Government of Bataan, the training equipped officials with skills to mediate disputes effectively within their communities. Participants included Punong Barangays, Sangguniang Barangay Members, Barangay Secretaries, clerks, and Lupong Tagapamayapa members.
The sessions covered RA 9285 (the ADR Law), KP fundamentals, and conflict resolution strategies. Participants also discussed the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards and underwent mediation exercises, culminating in hands-on simulation activities and settlement agreement drafting.
Barangay officials welcomed the training as a valuable initiative to strengthen barangay-based justice, ensuring local disputes are resolved efficiently without escalating to the courts. Many participants appreciated the interactive approach and real-world case discussions, reinforcing their role in community dispute resolution.
Atty. Karla Basanes-Mendoza of Provl Legal Office PG Bataan and DILG Region III ARD Jay E. Timbreza, CESO IV, graced the event and shared their insights on the importance of strengthening ADR within local government units. They emphasized that enhancing ADR mechanisms will help reduce court congestion, improve access to justice, and foster public trust in local governance and dispute resolution.
The event concluded with a message from DILG Bataan PD Belina T. Herman, CESO V, who expressed her gratitude to all participants for their enthusiasm and dedication to learning conflict resolution strategies. Lastly she encouraged all barangays to surpass the achievements so far attained for the Lupon Tagapamayapa Incentives Award.