What is a Barangay Blotter?
A barangay blotter is a community-level record of incidents and complaints. It documents what happened and can be used as evidence or reference for future proceedings. Filing a blotter is different from filing a formal complaint — a blotter is just a record, while a complaint initiates the mediation process.
What to Bring
- Valid Government ID— Original and photocopy
- Written Statement— Details of the incident (who, what, when, where)
- Evidence (if any)— Photos, documents, medical certificates
- Witness Information— Names and contact details of witnesses
Step-by-Step Process
Go to Your Barangay Hall
Visit the barangay hall where the incident occurred or where the respondent resides. Bring all your documents.
Request to File a Blotter
Inform the barangay staff that you want to file an incident report or complaint. They will provide you with the blotter form.
Fill Out the Blotter Form
Provide complete details: your information, the respondent's information, date/time/place of incident, and a narrative of what happened.
Submit Supporting Documents
Attach any evidence you have: photos, medical certificates, or other relevant documents.
Sign and Get a Copy
Sign your statement. Request a certified copy of the blotter entry for your records.
Wait for Summons
If you filed a complaint, the barangay will summon the other party for mediation. This usually happens within 15 days.
Blotter vs. Formal Complaint
Blotter Entry
- • Just a record of the incident
- • No summons to the other party
- • For documentation purposes
- • Can be used as evidence later
Formal Complaint
- • Initiates mediation process
- • Other party will be summoned
- • Aims for settlement
- • Required before filing in court
Tips
- File the blotter as soon as possible after the incident
- Be specific with dates, times, and details
- Take photos of injuries or damage before they heal/get repaired
- Always get a certified copy of your blotter entry
- Stay calm and factual — avoid emotional language
When to Go to the Police Instead
For serious crimes (physical injury requiring hospitalization, theft over ₱5,000, threats with weapons), go directly to the police station. Barangay blotters are for minor incidents and disputes.
Common Incidents Filed
- Neighbor disputes (noise, property boundaries)
- Minor physical altercations
- Verbal threats or harassment
- Property damage
- Debt collection disputes
- Family conflicts
- Minor theft (under ₱5,000)
- Trespassing
Not Handled by Barangay
- Serious crimes (murder, rape, robbery)
- Cases involving public officials
- Disputes where parties live in different cities
- Cases already filed in court
- Violations punishable by more than 1 year imprisonment
Need Contact Info?
Find your barangay's contact number, office hours, and location.
Find Your Barangay