Rewarding barangay heroes: Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez seeks to augment support for tanods, lupong tagapamayapa

BARANGAY tanods, along with the Katarungang Pambarangay (Lupon Tagapamayapa) members, play a crucial role in maintaining peace and resolving disputes at the grassroots level. These local guardians, often performing their duties voluntarily, are the first line of defense in ensuring a safe, harmonious, and cohesive community.

Barangay tanods conduct late-night patrols to keep neighborhoods safe from any disturbances and criminal activity. They serve as a bridge between the community and law enforcement agencies and bravely face hazards armed only with basic tools such as flashlights and batons. In times of disaster, they quickly mobilize to assist in evacuations, rescue operations, and relief efforts. Additionally, tanods help manage traffic during large gatherings and barangay events, ensuring safety and order.

On the other hand, members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa, through the Katarungang Pambarangay system, are entrusted with the role of mediators and conciliators, tasked with resolving disputes at the barangay level before they escalate into formal court proceedings. Whether settling domestic disputes or easing tensions between neighbors, these mediators foster dialogue and promote peaceful, amicable settlements within the community.

Photo credits: VM Bebot Rodriguez official Facebook page

Recognizing their invaluable contributions, Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez has proposed a legislation to enhance the benefits of barangay tanods and members of the Katarungang Pambarangay. This legislation includes provisions for a monthly honorarium to compensate them for their time and effort, insurance coverage for personal accidents or medical expense incurred while on duty, and comprehensive training programs to sharpen their skills and knowledge.

Moreover, her proposal includes the provision of necessary equipment ensuring that they are well-equipped to perform their duties effectively such as communication devices and protective gear. Vice Mayor Bebot’s proposal also advocates for legal assistance for barangay tanods and Lupon members who may encounter legal challenges as they perform their duties.

"It is my commitment to ensure a safer and more secure environment for all Kagay-anons by empowering the very people who guard our communities," Vice Mayor Bebot affirmed. For her, supporting these grassroots heroes is not just a matter of recognizing their efforts; it is essential to ensuring the long-term security of the city because their services, while voluntary or minimally compensated, is a critical component of local peacekeeping efforts.

The Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) reported a commendable 3.5% reduction in the crime rate in 2023, coupled with a crime solution efficiency of 85.81% and a crime clearance efficiency of 97.83%. Building on this progress, Vice Mayor Bebot envisions this proposed ordinance as a means to further enhance community safety. By empowering tanods and Lupon members, Cagayan de Oro can continue to strengthen its framework for peace and order at the grassroots level.