Excerpt from DILG Office of the Secretary Memorandum Circular No. 2003-42:

The maintenance of peace and order is a key factor in the development process. The enactment of the Local Government Code ushered a new development paradigm that placed local governments at the center stage of national development including the promotion of peace and order in local communities. As enunciated in Section 391 (16) of the Local Government Code of 1991, the barangay may provide for the organization of a community brigade, barangay tanod or community service as may be necessary to assist in the peace and order efforts of the LGU.

Consistent with the thrust of the present administration towards building a strong republic, there is a need to strengthen the capability of the Barangay Tanods as frontliners in addressing the peace and order concerns in the locality. The present challenges, along the area of peace and order that the country confronts today, underscore the need to strengthen community-based mechanisms and citizens involvement in the government’s initiatives of ensuring peace and safety. Tanods serve as the frontliners in the fight against lawlessness, crime and terrorism. Their Professionalization, therefore, as agents for peace and development is a primordial concern."

Equippage

1. Uniform – Maong pants, white T-shirts, vest with markings and name -cloth, ball cap and rubber shoes shall be the minimum requirement of the Tanod’s uniform. ID shall be worn as part of their uniform to be provided by the barangay.The Tanod can be issued patches attached to their jacket, if prescribed. Awards and decorations can be part of the uniform.
2. Gadgets

• Nightstick with teargas (baton) with belt and holster
• Handcuff with holster
• Whistle
• Flashlight
• Raincoat
• Rainboots
• Small notebooks and ballpens
• First aid kits

Fire extinguishers may be maintained in the Barangay Halls.

If the barangay lacks resources to finance equipment mentioned above, the most important equipage shall be the priority, to be determined by the concerned barangay.