Peacemakers in the Community a Qualitative Study of Barangay Conciliators’ Experiences

Barangay conciliation has emerged as a cornerstone of community-based conflict resolution in the Philippines, serving as an alternative to formal judicial proceedings through the Katarungang Pambarangay system. The mechanism empowers local leaders, particularly members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa, to mediate interpersonal and intergroup disputes at the barangay level, facilitating peacebuilding rooted in cultural norms such as pakikipagkapwa (shared identity) and bayanihan (communal unity). The study explored the lived experiences of barangay conciliators—members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa—in different Barangay in Iloilo City, Philippines, who mediate local disputes under the Katarungang Pambarangay system. Grounded in the frameworks of restorative justice, social capital theory, and symbolic interactionism, the study aimed to uncover the emotional, procedural, and institutional dynamics that shape grassroots conflict resolution. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with experienced conciliators purposively selected from rural barangays. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Four key themes emerged: (1) neutral mediation and proactive engagement, (2) challenges related to cooperation and resource limitations, (3) resilient coping strategies, and (4) aspirations for institutional support and integrity. The findings reveal that while barangay justice is deeply rooted in cultural values such as pakikipagkapwa and bayanihan, its effectiveness is hindered by inadequate support, lack of training, and inconsistent public cooperation. Despite these challenges, conciliators demonstrate remarkable adaptability, moral commitment, and community-centered values. The study contributes to global discussions on informal justice systems and highlights the need for policy reforms to strengthen community-based mediation in the Philippines and similar contexts.