CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — A total of 11 villages across Central Luzon were cited as Best Lupong Tagapamaya for their exemplary implementation of the barangay justice system or Katarungang Pambarangay.
Barangay Barangay Mulawin in Orani, Bataan was adjudged as the Best Lupong Tagapamaya under the 1st to 3rd class municipalities category; while Barangay Calantas in Casiguran, Aurora; and Barangay Pesa in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija landed on the second and third places, respectively.
Under the 4th to 6th class municipalities category, Barangay Sta. Lucia in Samal, Bataan garnered the highest award; followed by Barangay Poblacion Norte in San Clemente, Tarlac and Barangay Camiling in Cabangan, Zambales.
Barangay Cupang Proper in Balanga City, Bataan bested other villages under the component cities category; followed by Barangay Sto. Rosario in Mabalacat City, Pampanga on the second spot; and Barangay Tungkong Mangga in City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan on the third spot.
For the highly-urbanized city category, Barangay Barretto in Olongapo City was adjudged as the best Lupong Tagapamaya; while Barangay Balibago, Angeles City is a runner-up.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Director Anthony Nuyda said the barangays being recognized are the embodiment of the principles of good governance because their efforts to maintain peace and order not only transformed their own community, but also set a good standard for other local governments to emulate.
“As we move forward, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the goals of peaceful communities. Together we can build a Central Luzon that is not only progressive, but also a region where everyone can thrive in an environment that is safe and conducive to growth and development,” he said.
For her part, DILG Bureau of Local Government Supervision Director Debbie Torres congratulated the awardees, citing that their achievements are a testimony to the hallmark of a true public servant.
She also cited the importance of maintaining peaceful communities, emphasizing that peace transcends the absence of conflict.
“It embodies peace, justice, and security. Peace flourishes in places where people feel safe, their voices are heard, and justice is upheld. Peace is a value we hold dear because it serves as the cornerstone of a prosperous and orderly community,” she pressed.
The Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards was established to recognize local governments that demonstrate exemplary performance in settling disputes at the grassroots level.
The performance and accomplishments of the lupons were evaluated by committees organized at the regional, provincial and municipal levels on the basis of efficiency of operations; effectiveness in securing the katarungang pambarangay objectives; and creativity and resourcefulness of mediators.
Winners received certificates and cash incentives worth 50,000 for first placers; P30,000 for second placers, and P20,000 for third placers. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA Region 3, Pampanga)
