eSumbong

Inspiration

We were inspired by the inefficiencies in the traditional Barangay complaint filing process under the Katarungang Pambarangay system, where citizens often need to physically visit the barangay hall, fill out paper forms, and follow inconsistent procedures. Many residents, especially those with limited time or mobility, struggle to access justice services quickly. We also observed issues like delayed documentation, lack of tracking, and inconsistent record-keeping across barangays.

What it does

eSumbong streamlines the complaint filing process within the barangay by providing a digital, mobile-first platform.

It allows users to:

• File complaints anytime, anywhere
• Track the status of their cases
• Submit necessary details without physical paperwork
• We used Gemini AI Flash 2.0 to produce in-app law summarizer for easier inquiry about the Philippine Law
• SMS messaging for summons

For barangay officials, it:

• Organizes incoming complaints
• Centralizes case records
• Reduces manual encoding and paperwork
• Improves monitoring of dispute resolution processes
• We used Gemini AI Flash 2.0 to produce in-app law summarizer for baranggay employees for easier access with Philippine Law

How we built it

• We focused on a mobile-first design approach to ensure accessibility for users with limited resources and devices.
• The application was built using Flutter, allowing cross-platform compatibility for Android and iOS.
• We designed a simple UI/UX flow to make complaint filing intuitive for first-time users.
• Backend planning includes structured data handling for complaints, case tracking, and barangay processing workflows.

Challenges we ran into

• Designing a system that aligns with the real-world workflow of the Barangay Justice System (KP process flow).
• Ensuring the app remains simple enough for users with low digital literacy.
• Structuring complaint data in a way that reflects real legal and procedural requirements.
• Limited access to real barangay datasets for testing realistic scenarios.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

• Successfully designed a working prototype of a digital barangay complaint system.
• Built a clean and accessible mobile-first interface using Flutter.
• Mapped the traditional KP process into a structured digital workflow.
• Created a foundation for improving transparency and efficiency in local governance systems.

What we learned

• The Barangay Justice System is highly effective in principle but faces implementation challenges due to manual and inconsistent processes.
• Digital transformation in local governance must prioritize simplicity, accessibility, and trust.
• Even small system improvements (like complaint tracking and digital forms) can significantly reduce administrative burden.
• Designing civic tech requires understanding both technical systems and real-world legal workflows

What's next for eSumbong

• Adds tagalog mode as accessibility feature
• Integrate real-time case tracking and notifications for complainants and barangay officials.
• Add document and evidence upload features for stronger case documentation.
• Develop a dashboard for barangay officials to monitor case loads and resolution status.
• Explore authentication and verification systems to prevent false reports and ensure accountability.
• Expand to include analytics for dispute trends to help improve local governance decision-making.

Built With

• firebase
• flutter
• unisms