Disaster preparedness, primary health care, and food security: final report of the 2-year project in Cebu, Philippines

The 2-year project (2023–2025) "Building Disaster Resilient Communities in the Informal Settlements of Cebu City, Philippines”, led by the Visayas Primary Healthcare Services, Inc. (VPHCS) in partnership with CADIS International, and funded by CEI, aimed at improving disaster preparedness, health services, and livelihood opportunities in four vulnerable urban communities in Cebu City.

The multifaceted approach over the two years, and the subsequent trainings have yielded significant positive impacts, including enhanced disaster preparedness and response capabilities, improved community health outcomes, a greater sense of community ownership and empowerment, increased potential for economic self-reliance, and now, the foundational skills for sustainable, community-led development initiatives. The project has demonstrated the transformative power of participatory approaches and multi-sectoral partnerships in addressing the complex challenges faced by these informal settlements. Looking ahead, the project will maintain its focus on community engagement, continuous 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, primary health care, and food security into a comprehensive and participatory community-based 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 planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation system.

Throughout the first year, the project emphasized capacity building and awareness. Communities participated in disaster risk reduction training such as Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM) and Participatory Assessment on Climate and Disaster Risk (PACDR), which enabled them to identify local hazards and resources. These trainings resulted in detailed community maps and disaster preparedness plans, tailored to each sitio’s specific vulnerabilities—whether it was fire hazards, lack of drainage, or the need for road access. Practical responses soon followed. Residents conducted clean-up drives, advocated for infrastructure repairs, and installed fire extinguishers with support from local officials.

Health was another central focus. The project trained Community Health Workers (CHWs) in basic health care, first aid, herbal medicine, and disease prevention. They later became instrumental in delivering health services to their communities, including blood pressure monitoring, health education, herbal remedy preparation, and feeding programs for children. These services not only addressed immediate health concerns but also strengthened health literacy and self-reliance among residents.

As the project moved into its second year, it built upon the structures and systems put in place. Regular fire safety drills were held in collaboration with the Cebu City Fire Station, and waste management continued to be a priority to prevent flooding. CHWs sustained their efforts, becoming trusted providers of both traditional and primary care services. The project also expanded into livelihood 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 stewardship became a growing part of the initiative. Seminars inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ encyclical raised awareness about ecological responsibility, culminating in community participation in the citywide “Walk for Creation.” Meanwhile, new partnerships with local parishes and the barangay councils provided stronger institutional support. Memoranda of Agreement were signed with newly elected barangay leaders to align ongoing project efforts with local governance priorities.

By early 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 vital in preparing residents to manage their own programs moving forward. A key milestone was achieved 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 impact of the project was significant. Infrastructure improvements reduced flooding risks, while education campaigns on fire hazards led to safer practices. Health services delivered by CHWs improved early detection and management of conditions like hypertension and malnutrition. Children received better nutrition through community-run feeding programs, and local economies benefited from budding enterprises. Importantly, the communities developed a strong sense of ownership, 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 that solutions had to be flexible and responsive. Coordination with local government and other stakeholders proved vital to overcoming infrastructure and logistical hurdles.

 Learnings

Looking forward, the report recommends a third year focused on deepening sustainability and expanding gains. These recommendations include building community-led monitoring systems, developing long-term sustainability plans, launching new livelihood projects, expanding health training for CHWs, and implementing community-driven health campaigns.

In conclusion, the CADIS project in Cebu City stands as a compelling example of how participatory, grassroots-led approaches can address complex challenges in informal urban settlements. By combining disaster preparedness, health care, economic empowerment, and environmental awareness into a unified effort, the project has not only transformed communities but also provided a replicable model for inclusive and sustainable development.