SAN CLEMENTE, Tarlac — In a historic milestone for the province, Barangay Poblacion Norte has become the first barangay from Tarlac to be shortlisted for the prestigious Lupong Tagapamayapa Incentive Awards (LTIA), a national presidential recognition for outstanding community conflict resolution.
The barangay successfully concluded its National Validation and Assessment for the CY 2026 LTIA on July 14, 2026 undergoing a rigorous evaluation process before a national panel of selectors.
Led by Punong Barangay Marie Carmela Estrada, the local arbitration committee demonstrated exceptional grassroots dispute resolution mechanisms during a comprehensive closed-door interview with the judges.
The national panel, chaired by Atty. Rolynne Javier, Officer-In-Charge of the DILG Bureau of Local Government Supervision, meticulously audited the barangay’s mediation efficiency, innovative practices, systematic record-keeping, and adherence to the Katarungang Pambarangay or Barangay Justice System guidelines.
“The achievement of Barangay Poblacion Norte is a clear reflection of their strong commitment to public service and their constant visibility in the community, which has firmly established the trust of their constituents,” Javier said.
The LTIA, established under Executive Order No. 394, recognizes barangays that excel in settling community disputes, helping decongest court dockets at the municipal level. Being shortlisted nationally positions Poblacion Norte as a benchmark model for grassroots governance across the country.
The validation drew strong support from provincial and municipal leaders, including Governor Christian Yap, represented by Atty. Ma. Lourdes Matias-Navarro, Tarlac 1st District Congressman Jaime Cojuangco, represented by Earl Sitaca, Mayor Roseller Toledo, and Vice Mayor Elma Macadamia.
Local officials congratulated Punong Barangay Estrada and the entire Lupon assembly for elevating San Clemente to the national stage, noting that the achievement reflects a broader culture of peace, transparency, and exemplary public administration across Tarlac.
With the national validation phase completed, the community now awaits the final declaration of winners for the CY 2026 presidential award later this year.
