The event marked another significant milestone in Barangay Gubatan's unwavering commitment to promoting peace, justice, and harmonious conflict resolution through the effective implementation of the Katarungang Pambarangay system. Beyond a validation, the occasion became a celebration of years of dedication, unity, and exemplary public service that have strengthened the community and inspired neighboring barangays.

The Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentives Awards (LTIA) is anchored on Section 406(b) of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, Executive Order No. 394 (January 22, 1997), which institutionalized the granting of economic and other incentives to outstanding Lupons, and Executive Order No. 68 (2024). The prestigious award recognizes Lupons that have demonstrated exceptional performance in fostering peace and resolving disputes at the grassroots level.

During the comprehensive evaluation, Barangay Gubatan proudly showcased its best practices and accomplishments based on the following criteria:

Efficiency in Dispute Resolution

Creativity and Resourcefulness

Effectiveness in Securing Settlement

Area or Facility for Katarungang Pambarangay Activities

Financial and Non-Financial Support

The national validation was conducted by an esteemed panel of validators composed of distinguished representatives from various national government agencies and institutions:

Atty. Rolynne A. Javier, CESO V – Officer-in-Charge, Bureau of Local Government Supervision, DILG Central Office

LGOO IV Berenice D. Tarnate – DILG Central Office and LTIA National Secretariat

George Michael Oribiana – Planning Officer IV, Department of Justice – Office for Alternative Dispute Resolution

PLTCOL Roderick DP Tonga – Assistant Chief, Operations Management Division, Police Community Affairs and Development Group, Philippine National Police

Mr. Joselito T. Eguia, Jr. – Mediators Network for Sustainable Peace, Inc.

Jose T. Name – Chief Judicial Staff Officer, Supreme Court of the Philippines

Also lending their support and presence during the validation were:

Atty. Shermin Mae Monteza-Simbanagan – LGOO V, DILG Region XI and LTIA XI Focal Person

EnP Joseph G. Purgatorio, MAED, MPP – Division Chief, LGMED, DILG Region XI

Ivy Mae L. Esteban – Cluster Head, LGOO VII, DILG Davao de Oro

Mary Rose M. Alibiano – MLGOO, DILG Maco

The activity was further graced by the Municipal Mayor Arthur Carlos Voltaire R. Rimando Kuya Mayor Volter Rimando, Vice Mayor Alvera Veronica Rimando, Members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Municipal Department Heads, Hon. Judge Kim Galagala of the MCTC, and representatives from Apex Mining Company, Inc., whose continued partnership exemplifies the importance of collaboration between the local government and private sector in building peaceful and resilient communities.

The successful national validation is more than a testament to compliance with standards—it is a reflection of Barangay Gubatan's enduring culture of dialogue, compassion, and service. Every mediated conflict, every peaceful settlement, and every collaborative effort has contributed to creating a safer and more united community where understanding prevails over discord.

This remarkable achievement belongs not only to the dedicated members of the Lupong Tagapamayapa, but also to every barangay official, partner agency, stakeholder, volunteer, and resident who has embraced the shared vision of peace and good governance.

As Barangay Gubatan continues its journey toward excellence, this milestone serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that genuine leadership, community participation, and steadfast commitment can transform challenges into opportunities for unity and progress.

Congratulations Punong Barangay of Barangay Gubatan Kap Arniel Fred Tormis Fernandez!

May this achievement inspire even greater dedication in strengthening grassroots justice, promoting lasting peace, and upholding the true spirit of public service. Together, we celebrate not just a successful national validation, but a community whose heart beats for harmony, resilience, and excellence.

Padayon, Barangay Gubatan! Padayon sa pag-alagad. Padayon sa pagpanalipod sa kalinaw. Padayon sa paghatag og paglaum sa matag pamilyang inyong gisilbihan sa municipalidad sa Maco.

Basta Serbisyo,...Sigurado!