Huyonhuyon High School

Huyonhuyon, Tigaon, Camarines Sur

A/Y 2023-2024

Interview Report
in
Philippine Politics and Governance

Juliana Faith Conmigo

HUMSS Student

Mary Gel Prado

Subject Teacher
 In our quest to understand the dynamics of local governance and the impact of political
positions on communities, we had the privilege of interviewing two key figures in our barangay.
Lorelie Buenviaje, the Punong Barangay, holds the highest position in the smallest administrative
division of our country. Emalyn Camo, a Barangay Kagawad, collaborates with her fellow council
members to ensure the well-being and progress of their community. Their insights shed light on the
powers, responsibilities, and challenges inherent in their respective roles.

HON. LORELIE BUENVIAJE

Punong Barangay

Interviewer: Can you briefly describe your role and responsibilities as the Punong Barangay?

Interviewee: "As the Punong Barangay, I shoulder the significant responsibility of overseeing the
smallest administrative unit in our country. While my primary role is to approve or disapprove
proposals and ordinances presented by the kagawad, I also manage the barangay as a whole.
Additionally, I am in charge of supporting Barangay Health Workers to provide basic health services
at the community level."

Interviewer: What are the main powers granted to the Punong Barangay in governing the barangay?

Interviewee: "I am empowered to enforce laws and ordinances in our barangay, negotiate and sign
contracts on its behalf, maintain public order, and preside over the sessions of the sangguniang
barangay and the barangay assembly."

Interviewer: How would you handle conflicts or disputes within the barangay?

Interviewee: "In addressing conflicts, I prioritize peace and order. Maintaining neutrality and
considering the causes and consequences of disputes help me arrive at rational resolutions."

Interviewer: Can you share any significant accomplishments or projects you would like to achieve
during your term?

Interviewee:"One of my aspirations is to secure an ambulance for our barangay. This would expedite
emergency responses, especially during nighttime accidents, providing a faster means of transporting
individuals to the hospital."

Interviewer: What challenges do you face in managing the barangay, and how do you address them?

Interviewee:"As a first-time Punong Barangay, adapting to the daily responsibilities, such as constant
paperwork and meetings, presents a challenge. However, I believe that this learning curve is a shared
experience among past officeholders, enabling efficiency over time."

HON. EMALYN CAMO

Barangay Kagawad

Interviewer: As a Kagawad, what are your specific duties and responsibilities within the barangay
council?

Interviewee: "As a Kagawad, my specific duties involve managing a committee, passing resolutions,
and actively contributing to the creation of ordinances that enhance safety and promote barangay
improvement."

Interviewer: How do you collaborate with the Punong Barangay and fellow Kagawads in decision-
making?
Interviewee: "Through official sessions, we, as Kagawads, engage in professional discussions,
formulate ideas, and develop projects and ordinances collaboratively. The Punong Barangay then has
the responsibility of approving or declining these proposals."

Interviewer: Can you highlight any specific projects or initiatives you've been involved in that
benefited the community?

Interviewee: "Notable projects include the construction of kindergarten and health center buildings,
as well as the completion of concrete pathways for alleyways leading to the ocean. While not solely
funded by our office, these projects have positively impacted our community."

Interviewer: What role do barangay ordinances play in your responsibilities?

Interviewee: "Barangay ordinances serve as both the primary function of our position and proof that
our office is actively functioning to address the needs of our community."

Interviewer: How do you engage with the community to address their concerns and gather feedback?

Interviewee: "Apart from managing a committee, each Barangay Kagawad oversees a designated
zone. I make a conscious effort to inform and update the residents in my assigned zone, listening to
their concerns and bringing them up during our monthly sessions."

The interviews with Punong Barangay Lorelie Buenviaje and Barangay Kagawad Emalyn
Camo provided valuable insights into the intricacies of local governance. Their dedication to
community welfare and collaborative efforts highlight the crucial role played by barangay officials in
shaping and improving the lives of their constituents. We extend our gratitude to these leaders for
sharing their perspectives on the challenges and triumphs inherent in their roles.

Figure 1. Interviewer with both Interviewees on day of Interview December 5, 2023.