ASSESSING THE AWARENESS OF PACIFICATION COMMITTEES' STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION AMONG BARANGAY OFFICIALS AND CONSTITUENTS: GROUNDWORK FOR A SPECIALIZED TRAINING PROGRAM

This study analyzes the level of awareness barangay (the smallest administrative division in Philippines) regarding Lupong Tagapamayapa, an informal justice system established under Local Government Code (Republic Act No. 7160). The is situated selected barangays third district Cagayan, and was motivated by observations a low adherence to Tagapamayapa provisions one such barangay. research used descriptive design collect, present, describe data concerning current status Tagapamayapa. A researcher-made structured questionnaire with 5 point-likert scale, based on mandates Sections 399 422 Code, administered participants after validation experts. Data collected analyzed using both inferential statistics. concludes that members constituents display very high about structure, functions, procedures committee. committee are well-versed requirements for their roles, importance residency, terms office, regulations termination membership, amicable settlement. have demonstrated significant Lupon's creation, vacancies, supervision, subject matter settlement, procedure settlements. However, certain areas like provision Lupon member's change workplace timeframe protesting settlement require more attention awareness. Based findings, enhanced training program must be implemented. While generally well-informed, there areas, as implications changing one's place work process following resignation, could benefit from further orientation.