TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Tacloban City Office has strengthened its campaign for effective grassroots governance by training barangay officials on alternative dispute resolution and digital governance systems.
The training course on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms under the Katarungang Pambarangay Law was organized by the Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution (OADR) and attended by all punong barangays of Tacloban City, members of the Lupong Tagapamayapa, and barangay secretaries.
The activity aimed to enhance the capability of barangay officials in handling community disputes through mediation, conciliation, and arbitration while promoting peaceful conflict resolution at the local level.
Officer-in-Charge City Director Jean Redi Briones reaffirmed the DILG’s commitment to strengthening barangay justice systems and improving public service delivery in communities.
Briones emphasized the importance of the Katarungang Pambarangay system as a vital mechanism in resolving disputes before they escalate into more serious conflicts.
He noted that barangay officials regularly address issues involving road concerns, permits, domestic disputes, and other community-related conflicts that require sound judgment and effective mediation skills.
According to Briones, equipping local officials with ADR competencies will not only improve conflict resolution but also help foster stronger and more harmonious relationships within communities.
“The Barangay Justice System works and continues to serve as an instrument for maintaining peaceful and harmonious communities,” Briones said.
He also highlighted the growing administrative responsibilities of barangay officials, particularly barangay secretaries, who handle reports and documentation for various government programs and services.
To improve efficiency in barangay operations, Briones encouraged local officials to invest in digital tools and reliable internet connectivity to streamline records management and report preparation.
He likewise promoted the responsible use of digitalization and artificial intelligence in governance to improve efficiency and strengthen records management systems at the barangay level.
Briones assured barangay officials that the DILG Tacloban City Office would continue extending technical assistance and support to help improve governance systems and public service delivery across barangays.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
