Question & AnswerQ&A (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1508)
The purpose of Presidential Decree No. 1508 is to establish a system for amicably settling disputes at the barangay level to promote speedy administration of justice, reduce court congestion, and preserve Filipino culture and family unity.
A Lupong Tagapayapa (Lupon) is a body created in each barangay, composed of the Barangay Captain as chairman and 10 to 20 members, tasked to amicably settle disputes at the barangay level.
Any suitable person residing or working in the barangay who is not disqualified by law and possesses integrity, impartiality, independence, fairness, probity, and educational attainment may be appointed.
Members hold office until December 31 of the calendar year after their appointment unless terminated earlier by resignation, transfer, or withdrawal by the Barangay Captain with Lupon concurrence.
Disputes involving the government, public officers in official capacity, offenses punishable by imprisonment over 30 days or fines over P200, offenses without private offended party, and other cases determined by the Prime Minister.
Such disputes shall be brought before the Lupon of the barangay where the respondent actually resides, or where the real property involved is located.
Any individual with a cause of action may complain orally or in writing to the Barangay Captain, who will then mediate the dispute or form a conciliation panel if mediation fails.
Refusal or willful failure to appear may be punished as indirect contempt of court and bars the complainant from judicial recourse on the same cause of action, and the respondent from filing counterclaims.
Yes, amicable settlements or arbitration awards have the force of final judgment and may be enforced by execution within one year or by court action after one year.
No, parties must appear in person without counsel or representative, except minors and incompetents who may be assisted by next of kin who are not lawyers.