BODONG SYSTEM OF STA.

MARIA, ILOCOS SUR

_____________

A Thesis
Presented To The Faculty
of the College of Criminal Justice Education,
University of Northern Philippines, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

_____________

In Partial
Fulfillment of the
Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Criminology

_____________

ANDREA LISSETTE B. CABELIZA

2024
 ii

CERTIFICATION

This thesis entitled “Bodong System of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur" prepared and

submitted by Andrea Lissette B. Cabeliza in partial fulfillment of the requirements for

the degree Bachelor of Science in Criminology has been examined and recommended for

acceptance and approval on Oral Examination.

LOIDA A. RILVERIA, PhD

Adviser
 iii

APPROVAL SHEET

Approved by the Panel of Examiners on Oral Examination with a grade of

________.

MERVIC M. PARIÑAS, PhD

Chairperson

ARLAN G. REBURON, PhD KEVIN MEL R. PACPACO, MSCJ

Member Member

Accepted and approved as partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree

Bachelor of Science in Criminology.

SINA C. BESTRE, PhD

Dean

Date:_____________
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researcher would like to express her profound gratitude and acknowledge

significant people who willingly contributed in the fulfillment of this research work.

Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna, President of the University of Northern Philippines, for his

student-centered vision which encouraged the researcher to undertake with great passion;

Dr. Sina C. Bestre, Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education, for her

motherly support to the criminology researchers;

Dr. Mervic M. Pariñas, Chairperson of the Panel of Examination, for his valuable

comments and suggestions for the improvement of this study and for sharing his expertise

in improving this manuscript;

Dr. Arlan G. Reburon and Mr. Kevin Mel R. Pacpaco, panel members, for their

constructive criticisms and suggestions for the refinement of this study;

Dr. Loida A. Rilveria, thesis adviser, for her kindness and persistence to support

in the accomplishment of the study;

Mr. Jeffrey E. Galangco, statistician, for his unselfish time in computing and

interpreting the data gathered;

Hon. Nestor Camero, Dr. Marlow T. Pacapac, and Hon. Arnel Peralta, expert

validators, for sharing their expertise, valuable time to check the questionnaire and for their

suggestions for its refinement;

Hon. Arnel Peralta, the Barangay Captain of Brgy. Butir, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur,

Hon. Felipe Dagdag Jr., the Barangay Captain of Brgy. Langaoan, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur,

and Hon. Demetrio Manzano Jr., the Barangay Captain of Pacang, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur

for allowing the researcher to gather the needed data in their respective areas;
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The Barangay Officials, Teachers, and RIC Presidents, the respondents of this

study, for their patience and cooperation in answering the questionnaire;

Above all, to Almighty God, for His guiding presence and unlimited blessings.

Without Him, this piece of work won’t be possible.

A. L. B. C.
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DEDICATION

My strength runs out, but His love fulfills me. To our Almighty God, I glorify you

in my life. To every achievement I received, I owe it all to you. Without You, I have

nothing. With You, I have everything.

To my parents, Mr. Reynaldo C. Cabeliza Jr. and Mrs. Maribel B. Cabeliza, I

saw how you struggled to raise me. This work won't be possible without your support. To

my sister and brother, Rica B. Cabeliza and Kyle Marco B. Cabeliza, thank you for

supporting me silently. Your presence means a lot to me.

To my Power Rangers, you made my college life bearable. Our shared moments

will always be my unforgettable treasure. Thank you for being my best buddies.

To my ate Angge and Relyn, thank you for staying during those tough moments of

my life.

To Necy, Diana, and Angela, thank you for everything.

To my Fern, I am grateful for your life. Thank you for supporting me always and

believing that I can.

I dedicate this to all people who continuously prayed for me throughout my

journey. Also, to all of the people who questioned my abilities, thank you for not believing,

it brings out the best in me.

- Andeng
 vii

ABSTRACT

The tribal justice procedures are a component of an established, well-organized

social framework that is intended to improve social ties and promote maintenance and

reconciliation.

This descriptive correlational research aimed to evaluate the level of

effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong. Results revealed that

majority of the respondents ages are under the age bracket from 50 to 59 year old,

mostly female and married. A great number of them are secondary graduate, college

level, and college graduate. The findings also concluded that the level of effectiveness

on the process of settling disputes through Bodong is High and that age, sex, civil

status, and highest educational attainment were found to have no significant

relationship with the effectiveness of conflict resolution through the Bodong system

among the residents of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. It was recommended that Barangay

Captains should be oriented about the process of settling disputes through Bodong by

means of forum. This action will help the Barangay Captains understand that their

action of moving the case to Bodong means a lot to the aggrieved party in achieving

justice. In addition with this, the Bodong Indigenous Allied Group, Inc. (BIAG) should

create a resolution for the proper venue – which is a Barangay Hall – of settling disputes

through Bodong so that the Barangay Chairman and his officials will participate.

Moreover, the Bodong Indigenous Allied Group, Inc. (BIAG) should ensure that the

Barangay chairman is always present before, during, and after the settlement. And

finally, a similar study may be conducted and to other group of respondents and other

variables.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

TITLE PAGE............................................................................................................ i

CERTIFICATION................................................................................................... ii

APPROVAL SHEET................................................................................................ iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT………………………………………………………… iv

DEDICATION.......................................................................................................... vi

ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………… vii

TABLE OF CONTENTS…………………………………………………………. viii

LIST OF TABLES………………………………………………………………… x

LIST OF FIGURES……………………………………………………………….. xi

CHAPTER 1. THE PROBLEM

Introduction…………………………………………………………………... 1

Statement of the Problem…………………………………………………….. 4

Scope and Delimitation of the Study…………………………………............ 4

Review of Related Literature and Studies……………………………………

A. Review of Related Literature……………………………........ 5

B. Review of Related Studies………………………………........ 10

Conceptual Framework………………………………………………............. 12

Operational Definition of Terms…………………………………………….. 12

Assumptions…………………………………………………………………. 13

Hypothesis………………………………………………………................... 14
 ix

Research Methodology………………………………………………………………..

Research Design………………………………………………………………... 14

Population………………………………………………………………………. 14

Data Gathering Instrument……………………………………………………... 15

Data Gathering Procedure……………………………………………………… 16

Statistical Treatment of Data…………………………………………………… 16

CHAPTER II. PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF

DATA

Problem 1. Profile of the respondents………………..………………………. 17

Problem 2. Level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes

Through Bodong………………………..............................……………….. 18

Problem 3. Significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and

the level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong…. 21

CHAPTER III. SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND

RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary…………………………………………………………….................... 23

Findings…………………………………………………………………………. 23

Conclusions……………………………………………………………………... 26

Recommendations………………………………………………………………. 26

REFERENCES………………………………………………………………………. 28

APPENDICES………………………………………………………………………...

Letter Request…………………………………………………………………. 30

Sample Questionnaire………..………………………………………………... 33
 x

Curriculum Vitae………………………………………………………………. 35
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LIST OF TABLES

Table Title Page

1 Distribution of Respondents………………………………………………… 15

2 Profile of the Respondents…………………………………………………... 17

3 Level of Effectiveness on the Process of Settling Disputes through Bodong. 19

4 Correlation between Profile and Level of Effectiveness……………………. 21

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LIST OF FIGURE

Figure Title Page

1 Research Paradigm………………………………………………………. 12
 Chapter I

THE PROBLEM

Introduction

Peace is the ultimate goal of every leader and member of a society where it gives

no room for hostility and violence. It serves as a stabilizer of society where its absence

could result in disintegration that could lead to ruins. It is common for people to look for

shared substantive norms to settle conflicts. Previous studies pointed out the importance of

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The ADR is a set of practices and techniques which

aimed at permitting the resolution of disputes, basically legal, outside the courts (Mnookin,

1998). The ADR includes mediation, arbitration, and other informal processes where it also

involves a third party who will communicate the dispute information to the disputants and

will eventually try to propose an opinion. Bodong is one of the Alternative Dispute

Resolutions that indigenous people use in resolving conflicts.

Additionally, Bodong pertains to the “peace pact” or peace council commonly used

in the northern part of the Philippines specifically in the Province of Kalinga. It is a

sociocultural and economic institution conceived and painstakingly developed through the

centuries out of a need for collective security which is the basis for finding viable

communities which sprung from their ardent desire to live in peace and social stability if

peace is achieved (Guadamor and Martinez, 2017). It conserves cultural heritage that

signifies classic ethnic identity.

Also, at this present time, Bodong is already adopted by several low-land

municipalities in the Province of Ilocos Sur like the municipality of Sta. Maria. Although

Sta. Maria is not a tribal community, they had been allowed to adopt the Bodong System
 2

since there are some Indigenous people from upland municipalities who got to marry

people from the said municipality and vice versa. The name of their association is Bodong

Indigenous Allied Group (BIAG), Inc. and its main office is located in Cabaroan, San

Emilio, Ilocos Sur. According to their History, the Municipality of San Emilio was

originally a part and parcel of the old Mountain Province since it is located in the

geographical location of Cordillera. Bodong has been handed down from generation to

generation. It emerged from the customs and traditions of the Indigenous People with a

constitution and by-laws known as Pagta. The provisions of the pagta highlight the duties,

rights, and protection of members as well as the sanctions for crimes committed.

Indeed, Heifer Philippines International affirms that Bodong is an alternative

justice system that showcases the fundamental desire of the Kalingas to come up with

measures of providing harmony in their society based on the customs that have been passed

on conscientiously by their ancestors. They share the same conviction with Bocaig et. al.

(2019) that Bodong, as an indigenous justice system that plays a minor role nowadays, is

still effective.

Moreover, Bocaig et. al. (2019), cited the study of Cariazo (2009) which

emphasized that the external assessors consider Bodong to be effective in terms of the

observance of Pagta whereas the sub-tribe elders assess the Bodong system to be very

effective as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Kalinga Province.

Again, Bodong, a unique judicial system, is said to be more successful in delivering

justice than resorting to government laws. Wherefore, resorting to government laws often

favor wealthy persons. In Bodong, even at the expense of bloodshed, no innocent person
 3

is ever unfairly punished. However, misinformation had reached lowlands and urban areas

creating a bad image of Bodong.

Correspondingly, through the years, Bodong System was discarded due to

discontentment of imposition of penalties and indemnities. Questions, queries and violent

reactions also have been raised on the existence of the Bodong System. People nowadays

still wonder on the effectiveness of the Bodong’s implication over the implication of the

criminal justice system to their new generation (Domingo, 2017). Unlike bodong, if an

individual committed a crime, it does not fall in any category nor the person will not suffer

any criminal liabilities and may live a normal life. Another is that the whole tribe suffers

for the fault of one. Flaws on the system has not died out even before it has been accepted

and amended, until the present day it is still the main issue in the high land. With Bodong,

there is still lack of proof about its effectiveness in settling disputes and conflict.

It is in this light that the researcher decided to conduct this study to gather more

data on the effectiveness of the Bodong. The researcher believed that Bodong had been and

will be an important part of the Philippine legal and social culture. This study evaluated

the perceived level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong and

discussed the relationship between the profile of the respondents and the perceived level

of effectiveness. This study can increase public awareness in such a way that more

researchers would be interested in pursuing the same topics. It can help in providing a

solution in the misconceptions about Bodong because it gives clarifications to these

problems. This study contributes to the expansion of knowledge about this topic. With that

being said, this can serve as a related study for researchers who will explore the same topic.

The researcher hopes that this study will help in educating the people, especially the youth
 4

of Ilocos Sur and other places in the country about what Bodong is and how important it is

as a strategy in achieving peace and justice in the community.

Statement of the Problem

This study aimed to evaluate the level of effectiveness on the process of settling

disputes through Bodong among the residents of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.

Specifically, it sought answers to the following questions:

1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:

a. age;

b. sex;

c. civil status; and

d. highest educational attainment?

2. What is the perceived level of effectiveness on the process of settling

conflict/disputes through Bodong among the residents of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur?

3. Is there a significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and the

perceived level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong?

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study is delimited to evaluate the level of effectiveness regarding on the

process of settling conflict/disputes through Bodong. It also determines the relationship

between the profile of the respondents and the level of effectiveness. The study was

conducted in the three barangays of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur namely Butir, Langaoan, and

Pacang.

The researcher utilized the descriptive-correlational method of research with

questionnaire as the main tool in data gathering. A questionnaire-checklist was used as the
 5

main data gathering instrument which was evaluated by a barangay chairman, the president

of Bodong, and a member of Bodong who’s in the academe. There are 51 participants who

are residents of Pacang, Langaoan, and Butir, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

A. Review of Related Literature

Globally, there is increasing interest in the potential role of indigenous and other

traditional and customary justice systems in efforts to achieve “access to justice for all”

and “effective, accountable and inclusive institutions” under UN Sustainable Development

Goal 16. Indigenous and other traditional or customary justice systems are often

geographically, culturally and financially more accessible to local populations than is the

official court system. Indeed, for marginalized and disadvantaged rural populations in

developing countries, traditional and customary courts may in practical terms be the only

form of access they have to any kind of justice.

Moreover, in the Philippine context IP is composed of different ethnic groups. More

than one hundred Indigenous communities are living in different parts of the country, based

on the report of National Commission of Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) last 2010, about 61%

of them reside in Mindanao, 33% in Luzon, and there are 6% in part of Visayas.

In connection, one of these ethnic groups who have their own Justice Sytem are

Dumagat Tribe, Higaonon Tribe, and the Igorot Tribe. Dumagat tribe, according to the

respondents in the study of Adriano et al., (2018), when the crime committed in their

community was against their tribal member, the customary law will be used to punish the

offender, but when the crime was against an outsider, the Philippine Criminal Law will be
 6

used. Banishment of the offender and the family is the highest punishment imposed by IP

court.

Similar to this one of the indigenous practices that the Higaonons have retained to

this day is their Justice and conflict system locally called paghusay (meaning “to settle”).

They resolve all kinds of conflicts as long as they take place within their jurisdiction. The

forms of punishment of IPs were likewise similar. Restorative in nature since “the

application of punitive sanctions such as death penalty would,” according to the

Ininay/Inamay (the Chieftain), “make the situation worse.” This traditional system is

recognized as providing a win-win situation to all parties involved.

Correspondingly, the Igorot Tribe has also their own justice system named

“Bodong System”. “Bodong” is vernacular term that means peace pact or peace council

(Domingo, 2017). Bodong means "bound together". They also called it “Podon” which

means "to hold together something binding". Thus, Bodong binds two peace pact holders

together over the collective security of their constituents (Guadamor and Martinez, 2017).

It enables warring tribes to reunite together in peace. They are appointed by the "Bodong

Council" to settle disputes between two tribes in the form of large gatherings. Bodong is a

native peace system used to forge relationships, resolve conflicts, deliver justice and

preserve peace between communities, and prevent violence or retaliation.

Apart from this, Bodong is a sociocultural and economic institution conceived and

painstakingly developed through the centuries out of a need for collective security which

is the basis for binding viable communities which sprung from their ardent desire to live in

peace and social security and with the belief of advancing towards economic prosperity

and social stability if peace is achieved. And through time, it has greatly contributed to the
 7

preservation of a rare and cultural heritage and distinct ethnicity of the Kalinga in

establishing a ‘peace pact’ and demonstrating ‘love for peace’ despite its notoriety and

violence (Bocaig et. al., 2019).

In addition, the Bodong Administration is an institution recognized by the

Philippine government under Executive No. 220 and is now guided by the Pagta of 1986

and based on the indigenous laws of the Cordillera. The practice of Bodong is sanctioned

by several legal bases. Under the Republic Act 8371 commonly known as the Indigenous

Peoples Rights Act of 1997, the state formally recognized the different tribal justices in the

Philippines where one of these tribal justice systems is the “Bodong System”. The state

shall protect the rights of Indigenous cultural communities to their cultures, traditions, and

ancestral lands to ensure their economic, social, and cultural well-being as stated in Article

12, Section 5, and Article 14, Section 17 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Furthermore,

the groundbreaking idea of cultural integrity, which provides everyone the relative freedom

to exercise and enjoy one's life without being repressed and discriminated against others is

outlined in Article 27, Section 1 of United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

Communities have a fundamental right to actively take part in the development,

conservation, preservation, and enrichment of their cultural and artistic traditions.

Furthermore, “Bodong” is considered to be as old as memoirs of Kalingas which

have been ingrained and interwoven in their life and culture. Terms and conditions of such

agreement are expressed in an unwritten covenant called- The "Pagta” meaning “law of the

Bodong system” which expresses all the ideals of those who practice and embrace the

culture and tradition of the Minority Groups (Cordillera Peoples Alliance, 2004; Florendo,

2015; Domingo, 2017).

 8

Correspondingly, the Peace Pact Holders or the Bodong holders have revered

members of the community, more than barangay captains or law enforcers. In the Pagta or

law of the Bodong, the Bodong holder shall faithfully enforce and execute the provisions

of the Pagta; prosecute with dispatch cases brought to his attention until the same has been

settled to the satisfaction of both parties; not allow the severance of the Bodong without

complying with the provisions of Pagta; and arrest or cause the arrest of the violator of the

Pagta (Domingo, 2017). It is accurate to say that the Bodong holder cannot guarantee

complete safety, however, Domingo (2017) furthermore remarks that there are many things

that the Bodong holder can guarantees, such as the following: 1) swift investigation of an

injury or death allegedly caused by a co-villager against a kabodong; 2) final determination

of the identity of the covenant violator and consequent punishment commensurate to the

gravity of the violation or as provided by the covenant; 3) indemnity for loss, injury or

death due to the violation; 4) assistance to a kabodong who gets sick within the village

territory; 5) return of a kabodong’s body who died of illness within its territory; and 6)

assurance of village hospitality.

Moreover, during the Schools Day celebration of the 28th Kalinga Founding

Anniversary and 4th Bodong Festival, Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Z. Duterte-

Carpio lauded the Bodong System of Kalinga remains a recognized and viable alternative

peace resolution. Carpio also added that Kalinga is fortunate to have a rich and peaceful

community and that the strength of their foundation is built upon the peaceful co-existence

between ethnic groups.

Similarly, when non-Bodong tribes saw the effectiveness of the Cordillera Bodong

Administration, they also joined. During the 1999 Aurora Aragon Quezon Peace Award,
 9

Emilio M. Linawen said in his speech, “It is now well-accepted and realized by our people

that without peace there will be no development, and development will not take place

where there is no peace. The bodong system is now being utilized to reunite tribes who had

been divided by arbitrary administrative and social boundaries, and most especially to

protect/safeguard the rich natural resources within the territory which had long been

exploited and damaged by unscrupulous outsiders.”

However, the study of Guadamor and Martinez (2017) shows that there are times

when there are conflicting opinions on the penalty and on the procedures of administering

the penalty according to the respondents. The Bodong proceeds with smooth procedures

and ends with favorable results because the tribal leaders have strong control over their

members (Gudamor and Martinez, 2017). Likewise, they implied that the Bodong as a

justice system has taught the respondents to give importance to looking into factual pieces

of evidence and giving due punishment to the guilty. Findings further imply that the tribal

leaders must give their tribal members better information campaigns on where the accused

should enter when called for a Bodong procedure.

The tribal justice processes are part of a well-structured, time-proven social system

geared towards reconciliation, maintenance, and social relationships improvement. These

justice systems teach the people, especially the youth of today's generation how to

appreciate the beauty of their culture that revolves around restorative justice and speedy

trials or dispositions. The community will stay peaceful as long as people would understand

the implications of both systems in handling criminal cases and disputes in their locality.

In the journal article of Lyn Ramo and Marlon Gamarcho (2005), they point out that there

is more to discover in their tradition than meets the eye. In short, tribal justice systems will
 10

always be how it is and it should stay as it is. It may go through a bloody battle but will

give balance to the societal advancement that modernization brings.

B. Review of Related Studies

This section contains additional literature from other academic studies that are

thought to be important to the current thesis.

Guadamor and Martinez (2017) documented Kalinga natives' awareness of Bodong

processes in resolving conflicts and disputes, their perception of its effectiveness, and the

alternative measures they employ when it becomes ineffective. According to the findings,

the majority of Bodong members are 51-66 years old, male, married, literate, and Roman

Catholics. The findings also show that there are three procedures in the conduct of Bodong

in Lower Kalinga: the Lumnok, Pagta, and Sipat; that the respondents are well aware of

the procedures in the conduct of Bodong; that they perceive Bodong as an effective justice

system; and that they take their disputes to court as an alternative to Bodong. In general,

respondents regard Bodong as a 'fair' judicial system in which no innocent person is

unfairly punished, even if it comes at the expense of bloodshed. Based on the research

findings, the researchers, therefore, recommend that Bodong should be preserved among

tribes but made more adaptable. Its penalty system takes into account the financial capacity

of the offenders, and tribal leaders make the required modifications when problems arise

between tribe members and individuals from outside Kalinga. It is also suggested that when

offenders are from outside Kalinga or when problems involving Kalingas cannot be

handled, the case be sent to the proper court for resolution.

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Likewise, Clemente et. al. (2015) investigate the effectiveness of bodong as an

alternative conflict resolution method that represents the community's peace framework in

dealing with crimes and tribal-related offenses in the Philippine province of Kalinga. In

their study, 305 respondents were made up of municipal authorities, court personnel, law

enforcers, and tribal leaders, the findings considerably validate bodong as an effective

mechanism of enforcing peace because it does not contradict current laws. As a result, for

the bodong system to sustainably promote social security and economic stability of

culturally varied tribes, key stakeholders should take greater efforts in developing success

indicators for the intense education campaign about pagta provisions not only for

binodngans but also for non-binodngans.

Furthermore, in the study of Bocaig et. al. (2019), the respondents supported the

argument that the Bodong system is obligated to settle instances involving murder, land

disputes, property loss, and other infractions. As a result, the Cordillera Administrative

Region’s desire to pursue legislation and government recognition of the Bodong system

has reduced the burden of the Criminal Justice System's protracted trials. The idea of

Cordilleran leaders holding a Peace Summit every year is an excellent means of

enlightening Cordillerans about the importance of Bodong in their lives as more than

simply a machine, but rather a system. The Council of Elders used processes and mechanics

to settle situations, which included drawing the attention of the community, convening both

sides, investigating the matter, negotiating the sentence, and finally reconciling the

offender. The benefit of conflict resolution is that it promotes justice for the aggrieved

person, peace, and communal harmony. Based on their findings and conclusions, the

researchers recommend that the Council of Leaders should add some PNP personnel and
 12

professionals to make it more organized and easier for them to give judgment to the

offender who violates the law, as wee as to make the offended party feel comfortable,

especially in rape cases or other crimes against a person.

Conceptual Framework

Independent Variable Dependent Variable

Profile of the respondents: Level of Effectiveness of Bodong

a) age System
b) sex
c) civil status
d) highest educational
attainment

Figure 1
Research Paradigm
The research paradigm shows the interplay between the profile of the respondents

in terms of age, sex, civil status, and highest educational attainment and the relationship

to the perceived level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through

Bodong.

Operational Definition of Terms

The following terms were operationally defined to help the readers easily

understand the data of the study.

Bodong. It is the entire system of customary law that takes care of peacekeeping and

conflict resolution among the Itneg people of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.
 13

Amicable Settlement. A process where parties to a dispute or a lawsuit find ways to

resolve their differences in a friendly and non-contentious way.

Conflict. It is a long-term with deeply rooted issued that are seen as “non-negotiable”

Disputants It is a short-term disagreement that can result in the disputants reaching some

sort of resolution.

Level of Effectiveness This measure the extent to which the process of Bodong does what

is intended to do.

Age This refers to the length of time that respondents had lived.

Sex This refers to the set of biological attributes of the participating respondents whether

a male or a female.

Civil status This refers to the marital status of the participating respondents.

Highest Educational Attainment This refers to the educational accomplishment of the

respondents.

Assumptions

This study is based on the following assumptions:

1. The respondents are honest and cooperative in giving their thoughts and knowledge

about the study.

2. The questionnaire was valid and reliable.

3. The effectiveness of Bodong in settling conflict is measurable.

 14

Hypothesis

The researcher is guided with the following hypothesis:

1. There is no significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and the

level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong.

Research Methodology

This portion presents the research design, data gathering procedure, population and

sampling, research instrument, and the statistical treatment of data.

Research Design

The study employed the descriptive-correlational method of research. It describes

the profile of the respondents in terms of the following personal factors. It correlates the

profile of the respondents to the Perceived Level of Effectiveness on the Process of Settling

Disputes through Bodong.

Population and Sample

The respondents of this research are the Barangay Officials, Teachers, and RIC

Presidents ages 18 years old up to 60 years and above from the three barangays of Sta.

Maria, Ilocos Sur namely Brgy. Butir, Pacang, and Langaoan.

The Barangay Officials and RIC Presidents from the three different

barangays were taken through a total enumeration sampling. There are only 5 teachers each

barangay who were selected through the purposive sampling method.

 15

The distribution of the respondents is presented in Table 1.

Table 1
Distribution of Respondents

Respondents N N

Barangay Officials 33 33

RIC Presidents 3 3

Teachers 26 15

Total 62 51

Data Gathering Instrument

For the purposes of this research, the researcher used a questionnaire to gather the

data needed in the study. The questionnaire was validated by a Barangay Chairman,

President of Bodong, and a member of Bodong who is in the Academe. Part I of the

questionnaire determines the profile of the respondents in terms of personal factors. Part II

of the questionnaire measures the Level of Effectiveness on the Process of Settling

Disputes through Bodong. The questionnaire used a five-point rating scale as follows:

SCALE RANGE ITEM DESCRIPTION OVERALL DESCRIPTION

5 4.21 - 5.00 Very much effective Very High
4 3.41 – 4.20 Much effective High
3 2.61 – 3.40 Effective Average
2 1.81 – 2.60 Less effective Low
1 1.00 – 1.80 Ineffective Very Low
 16

Data Gathering Procedure

Before gathering the data needed for this study, the researcher prepared a letter

addressing the three Barangay Captains through the endorsement of her adviser and

approval of the Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education to gather specific data

for the study. After the permission was granted, the researcher administered the

questionnaires. Prior to the answering of questionnaires, the researcher ensured that the

identity, personal information, and responses of the subjects are always kept with

confidentiality. In addition to this, the researcher asked permission and consent to

document while data gathering is on-going. After which, the researcher retrieved the

questionnaires from the respondents. Upon the retrieval of the questionnaires, the responses

were tallied for the data required. The data was treated statistically and was interpreted.

Statistical Treatment of Data

The study used the following statistical tools:

1. Frequency and percentage count for the profile of the respondents.

2. Mean is used to determine the perceived level of effectiveness on the Process

of Settling Disputes through Bodong in Barangay of Butir, Pacang, and

Langaoan, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.

3. Simple correlational analysis to determine the significant relationship between

the profile of the respondents and the perceived level of effectiveness on the

process of settling disputes through Bodong.

 Chapter II

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This section presents, analyzes and interprets the data gathered.

Problem 1. What is the profile of respondents of Bodong in terms of:

a. age,
b. sex,
c. civil status, and
d. highest educational attainment

The profile of the respondents was determined using a questionnaire. Personal

factors include age, sex, civil status, and highest educational attainment.

Table 2 presents the profile of the respondents in terms of age, sex, civil status, and

highest educational attainment.

As seen in the table 2 above, the ages of respondents range from 18 to 30 years old

up to 60 years old and above with 6%, 12%, 25%, 47%, and 10% respectively. Most of

them age 50 to 59 years old. Majority of them are Female with 57% while the remaining

43% are male. In addition, 78% of the respondents are Married. 20% of them are still

single and 2% is already widowed. With such, majority of them are Secondary Graduate,

College Level, and College Graduate with the same percentage of 23.53%. 17.65% of them

attained a Masters Level. On the other hand, Elementary Graduate and Secondary Level

have the same percentage of 3.92% and Doctorate level and TESDA Graduate also have

the same percentage of 1.96%.

 18

Table 2
Profile of Respondents

VARIABLES Frequency Percent

Age
18 - 30 years old 3 6%
31 - 39 years old 6 12%
40 - 49 year old 13 25%
50 - 59 years old 24 47%
60 years old and above 5 10%
Total 51 100.00%
Sex
Female 29 57%
Male 22 43%

Total 51 100.00%
Civil Status
Single 10 20%
Married 40 78%
Widowed 1 2%
Total 51 100.00%
Highest Educational Attainment
Elementary Graduate 2 3.92%
Secondary Level 2 3.92%
Secondary Graduate 12 23.53%
College Level 12 23.53%
College Graduate 12 23.53%
Master Level 9 17.65%
Doctorate Level 1 1.96%
Vocational 1 1.96%
Total 51 100.00%

Problem 2. What is the perceived level of effectiveness on the process of settling

disputes through Bodong from the respondents?

Table 3 presents the level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes

through Bodong.
 19

Table 3
Level of Effectiveness on the Process of Settling Disputes through Bodong

Level of Effectiveness Mean Descriptive

Rating
1. The Barangay Chairman issues Certificate of Filing Action 3.76 Much
to move the case in the Bodong. Effective
2. The Screening Committee of Bodong evaluates the 4.00 Much
complaint passed upon by them. Effective
3. The Bodong Leader invites both parties together with the 3.88
Barangay Chairman of the place where the Bodong will be Much
held. Effective
4. The complainant will proceed to the Barangay Hall to 3.86 Much
narrate his/her side before going to arbitration proper. Effective
5. The accused will proceed to the Barangay Hall to explain 4.00 Much
his/her side before going to arbitration proper. Effective
6. The Bodong makes sure that the conflict is settled. 4.25 Very Much
Effective
7. Penalties is discussed. 4.16 Much
Effective
8. Indemnities is discussed. 4.00 Much
Effective
9. If the accused failed to comply with the imposed penalty 4.04
within the days of agreement, properties under the name of Much
the accused will be the exchange of the said penalty. Effective
10. If both parties requested a certificate, the head of Bodong 4.33 Very Much
issues Certificate of Settlement. Effective

Overall Mean 4.03 High

LEGEND:

SCALE RANGE ITEM DESCRIPTION OVERALL DESCRIPTION

5 4.21 - 5.00 Very much effective Very High
4 3.41 – 4.20 Much effective High
3 2.61 – 3.40 Effective Average
2 1.81 – 2.60 Less effective Low
1 1.00 – 1.80 Ineffective Very Low
 20

As revealed in the table, item ten, six, and seven appeared to be the highest. Item

ten have a mean of 4.33 described as Very Much Effective. This is indicative that the head

of Bodong issues a Certificate of Settlement once both parties requested it. Item six

appeared to be the second highest with a mean of 4.25 described also as Very Much

Effective. This means that in settling disputes and conflicts, the Bodong really make sure

that it is well settled regardless of the nature of the case and the personality of participants

in Bodong. In addition to this, item seven appeared to be the third highest comprising a

mean of 4.16 described as Much Effective. This indicates that penalties imposed by the

Bodong is discussed properly. At the time of data gathering, the researcher found out that

penalties imposed is reasonable and fair. In case of non-compliance on the part of the

accused, any property under his name that has the same value with the imposed penalty

will be taken.

In contrary, item one, four, and three appeared to have the lowest mean. A mean of

3.76 described as Much Effective in indicated for item one. This signifies that there is

somehow problem with the Barangay Chairman issuing a Certificate of Filing Action to

move the case in the Bodong. During the gathering of data, the researcher found out that

one of the Barangay Chairman don’t know how to communicate with his people that’s why

members of Bodong always prefer and go directly to the Bodong proper without even

resorting to the Barangay Justice System. In addition to this, item four showed to have a

mean of 3.86 described as Much Effective which made it to be one of the lowest. In

connection with item one, since one of the barangay chairman don’t issue a certificate of

filing action, a barangay hall is not the venue anymore. Moreover, item three also appeared

to be the lowest with a mean of 3.88 drawn as Much Effective. This reflects the fact that
 21

there is also problem with the participation of attendees. Amidst the gathering of data, the

same reason why item one revealed to be the lowest mean is also the reason why item three

became one.

As a whole, the level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through

Bodong is High with a mean of 4.03 which means it is Much Effective. It concludes that it

is effective in fostering social cohesion and economic resilience within communities. The

process on settling disputes through Bodong not only provides immediate support during

emergencies but also encourages a sense of responsibility and solidarity among

participants. The study of Clemente, et al. (2015) revealed that Bodong is an effective

alternative dispute resolution which also enhances the delivery of justice.

3. Is there a significant relationship between the profile of respondents and their

perceived level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong?

Table 4 presents the correlation between the profile of the respondents with the

level of effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong.

Table 4
Correlation between Profile of the Respondents with Level of Effectiveness on the
Process of Settling Disputes through Bodong

Level of Effectiveness
Independent Variables
r-value p-value Decision
Age 0.067 0.639 Do not reject Ho
Sex 0.068 0.633 Do not reject Ho
Civil Status 0.174 0.223 Do not reject Ho
Highest Educational Attainment -0.012 0.931 Do not reject Ho
**. Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed).
 22

When subjected to correlational analysis, various demographic factors including

age (r=0.067, p=0.639), sex (r=0.068, p=0.633), civil status (r=0.174, p=0.223), and

highest educational attainment (r=-0.012, p=0.931) were found to have no statistically

significant relationship with the effectiveness of conflict resolution through the Bodong

system among the residents of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, at the 0.05 level of significance.

This means that neither the respondents' age, sex, civil status, or highest educational

attainment has no discernable effect on their ability to resolve disagreements and

conflicts using the traditional Bodong approach. In essence, the lack of statistically

significant correlations suggests that these demographic factors are do not play a crucial

role in determining the efficacy of the Bodong procedure in Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.

This finding underscores the Bodong system's resilience and universality in

functioning as an effective method for dispute resolution, regardless of individual

disparities in age, gender, civil status, or educational background. It demonstrates the

indigenous judicial system's inherent strength and versatility for fostering harmony within

the community of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. According to Domingo's research from 2017, the

Bodong system has proven beneficial in addressing crimes and tribal disputes. Notably, in

Domingo's study, 50% of respondents acknowledged its success in settling situations

including murder, land conflicts, and numerous other infractions.

 Chapter III
SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the summary of the findings, conclusions drawn and the

recommendations made by the researcher.

Summary

This study is delimited to evaluate the level of effectiveness regarding on the

process of settling conflict/disputes through Bodong. It also determines the relationship

between the profile of the respondents and the level of effectiveness . The researcher

utilized the descriptive-correlational method of research with questionnaire as the main

tool in data gathering. A questionnaire-checklist was used as the main data gathering

instrument which was evaluated by a barangay chairman, the president of Bodong, and a

member of Bodong who’s in the academe. There are 51 participants who are residents of

Pacang, Langaoan, and Butir, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. To analyze the data gathered, the

researcher used frequency, percentage, mean and simple correlational analysis.

Findings

Based on the analysis and interpretation of data, the following findings were

derived:

1. Profile of the Respondents

Age. Most of them are between the age bracket of 50 to 59 years old.

Sex. Most of the respondents are Female with 57% while the remaining 43% are

male.
 24

Civil Status. Mass number of respondents are married comprising of 78%. 20% of

them are still single and 2% is already widowed.

Highest Educational Attainment. Majority of the respondents are Secondary

Graduate, College Level, and College Graduate with the same percentage of 23.53%.

17.65% of them attained a Masters Level. On the other hand, Elementary Graduate and

Secondary Level have the same percentage of 3.92% and Doctorate level and TESDA

Graduate also have the same percentage of 1.96%.

2. The Level of Effectiveness on the Process of Settling Disputes through Bodong

Overall. The level of effectiveness on settling disputes through Bodong is High

with a mean of 4.03 which means it is Much Effective. This indicates that Bodong is an

effective alternative dispute resolution which also enhances the delivery of justice.

Among with the process of settling dispute through Bodong, item “The Barangay

Chairman issues Certificate of Filing Action to move the case to Bodong” tot the lowest

and it signifies that there is somehow problem with the Barangay Chairman issuing a

Certificate of Filing Action to move the case in the Bodong. The Barangay Chairman don’t

know how to communicate with his people that’s why members of Bodong always prefer

and go directly to the Bodong proper without even resorting to the Barangay Justice

System.

3. Significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and the level of

effectiveness on the process of settling disputes through Bodong

The study revealed that age, sex, civil status, and highest educational attainment were

found to have no significant relationship with the effectiveness of conflict resolution

 25

through the Bodong system among the residents of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, at the 0.05 level

of significance.

Conclusions

In the light of the findings, the following conclusions are drawn:

1. Majority of the respondents ages 50 to 59 years old, mostly are female and is

already married. A great number of them are Secondary Graduate, College Level,

and College Graduate.

2. The Level of Effectiveness on the Process of Settling Disputes through Bodong is

at a High Level.

3. There is no significant relationship between Personal Factors and Level of

Effectiveness on the Process of Settling Disputes through Bodong.

Recommendations

Based on the findings and conclusions draw, the research forwards the following

recommendations:

1. Barangay Captains should be oriented about the process of settling disputes

through Bodong by means of forum. This action will help the Barangay Captains

understand that their action of moving the case to Bodong means a lot to the

aggrieved party in achieving justice.

2. The Bodong Indigenous Allied Group, Inc. (BIAG) should create a resolution for

the proper venue – which is a Barangay Hall – of settling disputes through Bodong

so that the Barangay Chairman and his officials will participate.

 26

3. The Bodong Indigenous Allied Group, Inc. (BIAG) should ensure that the Barangay

chairman is always present before, during, and after the settlement.

4. A similar study should be conducted but to other population and other variables.
 27

REFERENCES
Acabo, J. G. (2020). Higaonon Tribe Justice System. SMCC Criminal Justice Journal,

3(2508–0555).

Adriano, G.D., Benter, J.B., Cabarles, K.C., Cortez, K.R.C., Gonzales, K.S.S., Javier, K.B.,

& Tan, K.J.E. (2018) The Criminal Justice System of Dumagat Tribe in Sierra

Madre, Norzagaray, Bulacan: Its Implementation.

Arcilla Jr., F.E., Arcilla, M. E. & Cabana, V.G. (2019). Assessment of the Talaandig

Knowledge of Good and Evil. SMCC Higher Education Research Journal (Business

Administration Journal), 1(1).

Bocaig, N.J.L, & Emilio, B.K.C. (2019). The Bodong System of Tinguians

Cariazo, R. (2007). The Pride of Kalinga. Baguio Midland Courier.

Clemente, R.C., Tamangen, A.Y., & Vecaldo, R.T. (2015). Effectiveness of Bodong as an

Alternative Dispute Resolution: A Glimpse of Kalinga’s Peace Framework.

Sociology and Anthropology, 3(3), 145-152.

Diala, A. C. (2016). The Concept of Living Customary Law: A Critique. The Journal of

Legal Pluralism and Unofficial Law, 49(2), 143–165.

Domingo, N. Y. (2017). Tribal Rifts: A Valuation to the Extent of Criminal Justice System

and Bodong System in Resolving Crimes and Disputes in the ASEAN Region. JPAIR

Multidisciplinary Research, 27(1), 12-28.

Guadamor, M., & Martinez, V. (2017). Bodong in Lower Kalinga: A Strategy of Peace and

Justice System. International Journal of Advanced Research in Management and

Social Sciences, 6(12), 85–92.

 28

Malinnag, A. T., & Benabese, L. M. (2007). “Bodong” in the Province of Abra: Basis for

Sustainability of Peace and the Justice System. MABIKA’s Foundation.

Mnookin, R. H. (1998). Alternative dispute resolution. Harvard Law School John M. Olin

Center for Law, economics and Business Discussion Paper Series. Paper.

Sta. Ana, D. (2011). Life of Dumagat Tribe [Blog Post].

 29

Appendix A
Letter Request
30
31
 Appendix B
Sample Questionnaire
Dear Respondent,
I, Andrea Lissette B. Cabeliza, a fourth year BS CRIMINOLOGY student of the
College of Criminal Justice Education, University of Northern Philippines Vigan City, is
presently conducting a research study entitled, “THE BODONG SYSTEM OF STA.
MARIA, ILOCOS SUR” as partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor
of Science in Criminology. In this regard, I would like to seek your assistance to
accomplish this academic questionnaire. Rest assured that the data you will provide will
be treated with utmost confidentiality and will be used for academic purposes only. Thank
you for your cooperation.
- The Researcher

QUESTIONNAIRE CHECKLIST
Name (optional): ________________________________________________________
PART I. Directions: Please answer the following items honestly and objectively either
by filling the needed information or putting a check mark on the space provided for.
Age: ( ) 18 to 30 years old Sex: ( ) Male
( ) 31 to 39 years old ( ) Female
( ) 40 to 49 years old
( ) 50 to 59 years old
( ) 60 years old and above

Civil Status: ( ) Single ( ) Married ( ) Separated ( ) Widowed/Widower

Highest Educational Attainment:
( ) Elementary Level
( ) Elementary Graduate
( ) Secondary Level
( ) Secondary Graduate
( ) College Level
( ) College Graduate
( ) Masters Level
( ) Masters Graduate
( ) Doctorate Level
( ) Doctorate Graduate
Others (please specify):_______________
 PART III. Directions: The following statements will measure the level of effectiveness
on the process of settling disputes through Bodong. Check the space that corresponds
to your chosen number which matches the level of effectiveness.
5 – Very much effective
4 – Much effective
3 – Effective
2 – Less effective
1 – Ineffective

Level of Effectiveness 5 4 3 2 1

1. The Barangay Chairman issues Certificate of Filing Action to move

the case in the Bodong.
2. The Screening Committee of Bodong evaluates the complaint passed
upon by them.
3. The Bodong Leader invites both parties together with the Barangay
Chairman of the place where the Bodong will be held.
4. The complainant will proceed to the Barangay Hall to narrate his/her
side before going to arbitration proper.
5. The accused will proceed to the Barangay Hall to explain his/her
side before going to arbitration proper.
6. The Bodong makes sure that the conflict is settled.

7. Penalties is discussed.

8. Indemnities is discussed.

9. If the accused failed to comply with the imposed penalty within the
days of agreement, properties under the name of the accused will be
the exchange of the said penalty.
10. If both parties requested a certificate, the head of Bodong issues
Certificate of Settlement.
 CURRICULUM VITAE
I. Personal Information

Name : Andrea Lissette B. Cabeliza

Address : Marozo, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur
Date of Birth : January 1, 2002
Civil Status : Single
Sex : Female
Citizenship : Filipino
Religion : Christian

Parents

Father : Reynaldo C. Cabeliza Jr.

Mother : Maribel B. Cabeliza

Siblings

Sister : Rica B. Cabeliza

Brother : Kyle Marco B. Cabeliza

II. Educational Background

Elementary : Silag-Pacang Elementary School (2007-2014)

Pacang, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur

Junior High School : St. Mary’s College, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, Inc. (2014-2018)
Pob. Sur, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur

Senior High School : St. Mary’s College, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, Inc. (2018-2020)
Pob. Sur, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur

College : University of Northern Philippines

Tamag, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Degree : Bachelor of Science in Criminology (2020-2024)

III. Membership

Criminology Students : Treasurer (2021-2023) / Auditor (2023-2024)

Organization