Mediating Conflicts on the Ground: Work Experiences of the Pangkat ng Tagapagkasundo Chairpersons in the Barangays of Catigbian, Bohol, Philippines

This study explored the lived work experiences of Pangkat ng Tagapagkasundo Chairpersons in selected barangays of Catigbian, Bohol, Philippines, within the Katarungang Pambarangay or Barangay Justice System. The study aimed to describe the positive and negative experiences encountered in conciliation proceedings, the ways chairpersons addressed challenges in the performance of their duties, and their aspirations for improving the quality of barangay dispute resolution services. It was anchored on attribution, conflict, and self-efficacy perspectives to explain how chairpersons interpret behaviors, manage disputes, and sustain confidence in fulfilling their responsibilities. Using a qualitative approach through transcendental phenomenology, the study involved ten Pangkat ng Tagapagkasundo Chairpersons who had served as Lupon members for at least three years. Data were gathered through individual interviews and a focused group discussion using a validated open-ended interview guide, supported by field notes and audio recordings. Findings revealed that chairpersons experienced strong satisfaction and fulfillment when disputes were settled amicably and demonstrated commitment to duty despite the demands of handling complex cases. However, they also encountered difficulties such as uncooperative litigants, disrespectful behavior during proceedings, and absenteeism, which affected the smooth facilitation of conciliation processes. Chairpersons addressed these challenges by applying learned knowledge and skills, maintaining patience and calmness, and guiding parties toward compromise and mutual understanding. The informants strongly expressed the need for more trainings and seminars to enhance mediation competence, strengthen procedural implementation, and improve overall service quality in their barangays. The study aligns with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by supporting effective community-level justice mechanisms, strengthening governance processes, and promoting sustained capacity-building for local peacekeeping. Its sustainability impact is reflected in institutional and community sustainability through improved access to justice, strengthened social harmony, and enhanced community resilience through conflict prevention and dispute resolution.