The barangay is the smallest administrative and political unit in the Philippines. Every municipality or city is made up of several barangays, serving as the grassroots level of governance.
A barangay is led by the Punong Barangay (Barangay Captain) who serves as the chief executive. Supporting the captain are the Sangguniang Barangay (Barangay Council) members, commonly known as Kagawads, and the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson who represents the youth sector.
Appointed officials include the Barangay Secretary, Barangay Treasurer, members of the Lupong Tagapamayapa (peace and mediation council), and the Barangay Tanods (community safety officers).
To establish a barangay, the minimum population requirement is 2,000 inhabitants. However, in highly urbanized cities, at least 5,000 residents are required. Barangays are created either through national legislation or local ordinances issued by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan or Sangguniang Panlungsod, and must be ratified by local voters through a plebiscite.