Written by Nadine Faye Layug and Christine Porqueriño
Last October 2, 2024, the Politis Organization held a seminar entitled Legal Procedures and Community Justice: A Deep Dive into Criminal Procedure and Barangay Dispute Resolution through the Katarungang Pambarangay at the University of Baguio, Centennial Hall. This event tackled the relationship between legal procedures and community justice, particularly focusing on criminal procedure and the role of the Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) in barangay dispute resolution in the Philippines, highlighting the significance of integrating community-based mechanisms within formal legal frameworks to enhance justice delivery.

The first lecture was about DILG Presents: Understanding and Implementing Katarungang Pambarangay given by Atty. Genevieve M. Shontogan from the DILG. In order to promote social cohesion and guarantee that justice is accessible to all residents, attorney Shontogan stressed in her presentation the importance of empowering communities through educational initiatives and encouraging public involvement in conflict settlement. In addition to being an essential instrument for resolving disputes, the KP strengthens community bonds by promoting communication and cooperation among locals. It therefore plays an essential role in maintaining harmony and order among barangays all around the nation.

The second session was presented by Atty. Timothy John D. Tabago from the ALTTA Law Office, focusing on the Rules on Criminal Procedure by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Crafting of Criminal Complaints and Affidavits. In his presentation, attorney Tabago emphasized the importance of understanding the new guidelines for properly drafting criminal complaints and affidavits, which are essential for protecting due process and advancing justice in local communities. He highlighted the principle that “justice delayed is justice denied,” underscoring the need for an efficient justice system.
Overall, the seminar has offered an in-depth exploration of the relationship between formal legal systems and community-based mechanisms. These talks are especially beneficial to political science students because they provide a more in-depth understanding of how legal frameworks and community dynamics interact, allowing them to contribute to more effective justice delivery and governance.