PERCEIVED IMPACT OF RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PRACTICE: A REVIEW OF GOVERNMENT ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM ON CONFLICT RESOLUTION

This study aimed to shed light on what restorative justice is and how it is supposed to work as an alternative form in the administration of justice. Basically, it focused on the perception of Municipal Trial Court judges, prosecutors, mediators, and barangay lupon members on their knowledge about restorative justice, problems encountered, and contribution of the program in the administration of justice. It also assessed the impact of restorative justice in terms of community building, rehabilitation of the offenders, and victim’s healing. Using descriptive research, a survey was conducted among barangay lupon members to assess the impact of applying restorative justice practices in out-of-court settlement and an interview was done among Municipal Trial Court judges, prosecutors, and mediators to gather their insights on the effectiveness of restorative justice as an alternative mode of dispute resolution. Results revealed that the restorative justice program was perceived as an effective out-of-court remedy in administration of justice. The respondents were convinced it helped to reduce cases filed in court. Based on the findings, several programs were proposed to strengthen the capability of barangay lupon members in settling the disputes amicably within their cognizance.