The two-year project (2023-2025) “Building Disaster-Resilient Communities in the Informal Settlements of Cebu City, Philippines”, conducted by Visayas Primary Healthcare Services, Inc. (VPHCS) in collaboration with CADIS International and funded by the CEI, aimed to improve disaster preparedness, health services, and livelihood opportunities in four vulnerable urban communities in Cebu City.
The multifaceted approach adopted over the two years and subsequent trainings produced significant positive impacts, including enhanced disaster preparedness and response capacities, improved community health outcomes, a greater sense of belonging and community empowerment, increased potential for economic self-sufficiency, and now, the core skills for sustainable, community-driven development initiatives. The project demonstrated the transformative power of participatory approaches and multisectoral partnerships in addressing the complex challenges of these informal settlements. Looking ahead, the project will continue to focus on community engagement, ongoing capacity building, and adaptability to ensure the long-term sustainability of its positive impacts.
At the heart of the project was the vision to integrate disaster preparedness, basic healthcare, and food security into a comprehensive and participatory community initiative. The project began in May 2023 with a series of organizational meetings and consultations that brought together local people's organizations (POs), barangay councils, and project staff. These initial engagements laid the foundation for an inclusive and collaborative system of planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
During the first year, the project focused on capacity building and awareness raising. Communities participated in disaster risk reduction trainings, such as Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM) and Participatory Assessment of Climate and Disaster Risk (PACDR), which enabled them to identify local risks and resources. These trainings resulted in detailed community maps and disaster preparedness plans tailored to the specific vulnerabilities of each site, whether fire risks, lack of drainage, or the need for road access. Practical responses followed. Residents carried out clean-up actions, worked on infrastructure repairs, and installed fire extinguishers with the support of local officials.
Health was another central focus. The project trained community health workers (CHWs) in basic healthcare, first aid, herbal medicine, and disease prevention. They later became essential in providing health services to their communities, including blood pressure monitoring, health education, preparation of herbal remedies, and feeding programs for children. These services not only addressed immediate health issues but also strengthened health literacy and residents' self-sufficiency.
During the second year, the project built on the structures and systems developed. Regular fire safety drills were organized in collaboration with the Cebu City fire station, and waste management continued to be a priority to prevent flooding. The CHWs remained engaged, becoming trusted providers of traditional and primary care services. The project also expanded into livelihoods and food security, with communities participating in Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) training. Residents identified local resources and developed small-scale income-generating activities, such as herbal ointment production and candle making, providing economic benefits and community cohesion.
Environmental management became an increasing part of the initiative. Seminars inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si' raised awareness of ecological responsibility, culminating in community participation in the citywide “Walk for Creation.” Meanwhile, new partnerships with local parishes and neighborhood councils provided stronger institutional support. Memoranda of understanding were signed with newly elected barangay leaders to align ongoing project efforts with local governance priorities.
At the beginning of 2025, the project turned its attention to sustainability. A series of workshops trained community leaders in project development, financial management, feasibility studies, and leadership. These skills were essential to prepare residents to manage their own programs in the future. A major milestone was reached when all four POs received official accreditation from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), formalizing their legal status and making them eligible for government assistance.
Project Impacts
The project's impact was significant. Infrastructure improvements reduced flood risks, while fire risk education campaigns led to safer practices. Health services provided by CHWs improved early diagnosis and management of conditions such as hypertension and malnutrition. Children received better nutrition through community-run feeding programs, and local economies benefited from emerging businesses. Importantly, communities developed a strong sense of belonging, with residents taking the lead in organizing, planning, and advocating for their needs.
However, the project also encountered challenges. Sustaining community participation required constant encouragement, especially given the daily struggles faced by residents. The diversity of each sitio (community) meant solutions had to be flexible and responsive. Coordination with local government and other stakeholders proved crucial in overcoming infrastructural and logistical obstacles.
Lessons Learned
Looking ahead, a third year is recommended focusing on deepening sustainability and expanding the results achieved. These recommendations include creating community-led monitoring systems, developing long-term sustainability plans, launching new livelihood projects, expanding health training for CHWs, and implementing community-led health campaigns.
In conclusion, the CADIS project in Cebu City is a compelling example of how participatory and grassroots approaches can address complex challenges in informal urban settlements. By combining disaster preparedness, healthcare, economic empowerment, and environmental awareness into a unified effort, the project not only transformed communities but also provided a replicable model for inclusive and sustainable development.
