DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla announced on Thursday that the government saved an impressive P4.3 billion in litigation costs due to the exceptional performance of Lupong Tagapamayapa units across the country in amicably settling neighborhood disputes.
Speaking at the Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentive Awards (LTIA) ceremony, Remulla praised the Lupons for their 77 percent resolution rate in handling community conflicts, underscoring the vital role they play in promoting peace at the grassroots level.
“I am very proud of your work. Let me assure you that we will never overlook the importance of what you do,” Remulla said.
He further expressed his admiration, adding, “Kahit barangay, alam ko na nagtatrabaho kayo. Kahit barangay, alam ko ang sakripisyo ninyo ay mas malaki pa sa sakripisyo naming lahat sa national government,” recognizing the Lupons’ dedication and sacrifice.
The LTIA is an annual program that acknowledges outstanding Lupons for their dedication and effectiveness in implementing the Katarungang Pambarangay (Barangay Justice System) in their communities.
This year’s national champions include:
Barangay Budlaan, Cebu City – Highly Urbanized Cities (HUC) Category
Barangay Poblacion Zone 20, Baybay City, Leyte – Component/Independent Component Cities (C/ICC) Category
Barangay Rizal, Bansalan, Davao del Sur – 1st to 3rd Class Municipalities Category
Barangay Sinian, Baliangao, Misamis Occidental – 4th to 6th Class Municipalities Category
The first runners-up are:
Barangay Balulang, Cagayan de Oro City – HUC Category
Barangay San Vicente, Biñan City, Laguna – C/ICC Category
Barangay Mulawin, Orani, Bataan – 1st to 3rd Class Municipalities Category
Barangay Santa Lucia, Samal, Bataan – 4th to 6th Class Municipalities Category
Second runners-up include:
Barangay Tibungco, Davao City – HUC Category
Barangay Cupang Proper, Balanga City, Bataan – C/ICC Category
Barangay Poblacion, Trento, Agusan del Sur – 1st to 3rd Class Municipalities Category
Barangay Agban, Baras, Catanduanes – 4th to 6th Class Municipalities Category
These awards celebrate the dedication of Lupons who exemplify the spirit of community justice, significantly reducing the burden on the formal legal system and promoting harmony at the local level.