Philosophy behind Barangay Proceedings

      The basic philosophy behind the barangay proceedings is that through the amicable settlement of the disputes, the volume of cases filed before the courts and quasi-judicial bodies may be reduced. Thus, the essence of the proceedings is conciliation or peaceful resolution of conflicts. The Punong Barangay and conciliation panel or the Pangkat ng Tagapagkasundo does not issue an order or render judgment except where both parties agree in writing to enter into an arbitration of their dispute. The law only enjoins the Punong Barangay and the Pngkat to exert all efforts and to explore all possibilities to enable the parties to reach an amicable settlement or agreement which is acceptable to both of them. This settlement has the force and effect of a judgment of the courts after the lapse of a period of ten days from the date thereof if repudiation of the settlement or agreement is not made within said period.