The Commission recognizes the intention of the government to address criminality at the barangay level. However, the role of barangay captains is to implement local ordinances and laws and to help the police in assessing peace and order situation in their respective areas. Promoting peace through mediation is also an integral part of the barangay captain’s role. Arming the them will alter this and will reduce them into armed enforcers thus negating their role as intended in the Local Government Code. Further, there is a danger of perpetuating violence and abuses at the barangay level given the current climate of impunity.

We urge the government to instead enhance the capabilities, training, and equipment of the police to ensure peace and order in communities while protecting the rights and dignity of all.