Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla emphasized the importance of the Lupong Tagapamayapa in strengthening the justice system and reducing overcrowding in jails by settling disputes at the barangay level. He made the remarks during the National Awarding Ceremony for the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards (LTIA) in Quezon City.
“Kung walang lupon ng barangay mas puno pa ang ating mga preso. Kayo ang sandigan ng ating katahimikan sa mga barangay,” Remulla said, highlighting the Lupons’ role as pillars of peace in their communities.
The LTIA recognizes barangay Lupons that demonstrate exemplary implementation of the Katarungang Pambarangay (Barangay Justice System), assessing operational efficiency, settlement effectiveness, creativity, facilities, and stakeholder support.
Remulla commended the Lupons for promoting peace through amicable dispute resolution. “Kayo po ang nagtatrabaho para magbigay ng hustisya at maging tulay para sa pagkakaintindihan ng mga miyembro ng inyong mga barangay,” he said.
Justice Assistant Secretary Randolph Pascasio noted that lasting peace is achieved not only through legal processes but also through dialogue guided by proactive community leaders.
This year’s national winners include Barangay Plainview, Mandaluyong City (Highly Urbanized Cities Category) and Barangay Poblacion Zone 20, Baybay City, Leyte (Component / Independent Component Cities Category), along with six municipalities across various classes.
Remulla also proposed raising the incentive for national champions from P300,000 to P500,000 per category to further encourage excellence in barangay justice.