When barangay conciliation may apply
Katarungang Pambarangay is a community dispute process under the Local Government Code. It may apply to certain disputes between people in the same city or municipality, subject to exceptions.
What to prepare
- Your full name, address, contact number, and valid ID
- The respondent's name and address if known
- A short written summary of what happened
- Receipts, screenshots, photos, contracts, or other evidence
- Names of witnesses and the timeline of events
Basic steps
- Go to the barangay with jurisdiction over the dispute.
- Explain the issue and file the complaint or blotter as appropriate.
- Attend mediation or conciliation when scheduled.
- If settlement succeeds, ask for written documentation.
- If settlement fails, ask whether a certificate to file action is available or needed.
Some cases should not wait. Violence, threats, abuse, urgent protection issues, and serious crimes may require police, prosecutor, court, or lawyer assistance instead of only barangay mediation.
Ask PHLaw.AI
Try: "Do I need barangay conciliation before filing a civil case in the Philippines for an unpaid debt?"