A COMMUNITY DIAGNOSIS OF 50 HOUSEHOLDS FROM PRK.

1, BARANGAY
BANTOL, MARILOG DISTRICT, DAVAO CITY

A Paper
Presented to the Faculty of the College of Medicine
Davao Medical School Foundation, Inc.

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree of
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE

Submitted by:
ENGUITO, REU ZANDRO
ERESE, KATHLEEN ASHLEY
ESCLETO, KRISTOFFER
ESCOBAR, DAWN FELIZA

September 2023

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ii
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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page i

Approval Sheet for community diagnosis ii

Approval Sheet for bookbinding iii

Table of Contents 1

List of Tables 7

List of Figures 9

CHAPTER 1: BACKGROUND AND SETTING OF THE COMMUNITY

Historical Background 10

Physical Description of the Area 11

Geographic Characteristics 11

Land Area 11

Topography and Climate 11

Landscape 12

Map 12

CHAPTER 2: DEMOGRAPHIC AND FAMILY PROFILE

Limitation of the Study 13

Population Size and Composition 13

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 Total Population 13

Age and Sex Distribution 14

Marital Status 15

Education 15

Employment status 16

Age Dependency Ratio 17

Social Status 18

Religion 18

Social Participation 18

Literacy Rate 19

Economic Status 19

Possessions 19

Vehicle Ownership 20

Income 20

CHAPTER 3: LIVING ENVIRONMENT

Physical Environment 22

Locality of Houses 22

Environmental Pollution 22

Mode of Transportation 22
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 House Tenure 23

House Condition 23

House Construction 24

Electric Supply 24

Water Supply 25

Toilet 25

Biological Environmental 26

Waste Disposal 26

Psychosocial Environment 26

Worship Places 26

Recreation 27

CHAPTER 4: HEALTH PROFILE

Morbidity 28

Acute Medical Condition 28

Chronic Medical Condition 29

Mortality 29

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Medicines 30

Use of Herbal Medicine 31

Dietary/Nutritional Assessment 32

Women’s Health 32

OB Score 32

Pregnancies 33

Place of Delivery 33

Child Health 33

Regular medical check for children <5 years old 33

Deworming for children <5 years old 34

Vitamin A for children <5 years old 34

Immunizations in children <5 years old 34

Health Services and Utilization 34

Utilization of Health Services 34

Used of Medication 34

Health Risk Factors 35

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CHAPTER 5: THE PROBLEM

Problem Identification 37

Problem Prioritization 40

Problem Tree 41

Assessment of Causes 41

Objective Tree 42

CHAPTER 6: HEALTH ACTION PLAN

Title 45

Problem 45

Rationale 45

General Objective 46

Specific Objective 46

CHAPTER 7

Accomplishment Report 49

Evaluation 49

Policy Brief 54

References 58

Appendices
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Appendix I: Informed Consent 59

Appendix II: Survey Forms 60

Appendix III: Letter to PITAHC-DOH 61

Appendix IV: Letter to the Barangay for HAP implementation 62

Appendix V: Program of activities for HAP 67

Appendix VI: Attendance sheet during the conducted HAP 68

Appendix VII: Approval for Community diagnosis presentation 71

Curriculum Vitae 72

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Demographic Educational Attainment of the Household Respondents 15

Table 2. Demographic Employment status of the Household Respondents 16

Table 3. Demographic occupation of the Household Respondents 17

Table 4. Household Respondent’s Religious Groups 18

Table 5. Average Monthly expenditure 21

Table 6. Materials used for House construction per Household 24

Table 7. Types of Waste and Disposal Methods 26

Table 8. Recreational Activities of the Respondents 27

Table 9. Acute Medical Conditions Reported by Respondents from Purok 1 28

Table 10. Chronic Medical Conditions Reported by Respondents from Purok 1 29

Table 11. Medicine Used and Stocked in the Household of the Respondents 30

Table 12. Herbal Medicine Used in the Household of the Respondents 31

Table 13. Recommendation for use of Herbal Medicine in the Household of

Respondents 32

Table 14. OB score among female respondents 33

Table 15. Health services accessed by Household of the Respondents 35

Table 16. Problem Identification 37

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Table 17. Prioritization of Problems 40

Table 18. Assessment of causes acted upon by health sector and other sectors 43

Table 19. Assessment of causes that needs short term and long term solution 44

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Map of Barangay Baguio Proper 12

Figure 2. Age and Sex Distribution of the Household Respondents 14

Figure 3. Types of Appliances Owned 19

Figure 4. Monthly Income of each Household Respondent 20

Figure 5. Water supply of purok 1 proper Bantol 25

Figure 6. Health risk factors of household respondents 36

Figure 7. Problem Tree 41

Figure 8. Objective Tree 42

Figure 9. IEC on DOH-approved herbal plants 50

Figure 10. Lecture on herbal medicine with PITAHC representative 51

Figure 11. Establishment of a medicinal plant garden 52

Demonstration on the proper handling and preparation of

Figure 12. medicinal plants 53

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 Chapter 1

BACKGROUND AND SETTING OF THE COMMUNITY

A. Historical Background

Bantol is one of the 12 barangays of Marilog District, Davao City. To understand the
historical background of Bantol, it is necessary to delve into the history of Marilog and Davao
City.

Marilog District was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Bagobo,
Manobo, and Ata-Manobo. These tribes were the original settlers of the area and had their own
distinct cultures and traditions. In the 1930s, large-scale migration from other parts of the
Philippines, particularly from Luzon and Visayas, began to take place in Davao. This migration
was encouraged by government policies that offered incentives to settlers who would cultivate
and develop agricultural lands.

The development of Marilog District, including Bantol, was part of this overall
agricultural expansion in Davao. Settlers from different parts of the country started to establish
farms and plantations in Marilog, taking advantage of its fertile soil and favorable climate.

Over time, Bantol and other barangays in Marilog became home to a diverse
community of settlers from various ethnic backgrounds. The cultural landscape of Bantol reflects
this diversity, with influences from both indigenous tribes and migrant settlers.

In recent years, Bantol has undergone further development, with infrastructure

improvements and the establishment of schools, health centers, and other facilities. However, the
area still retains its rural character, with agriculture remaining a significant economic activity.

Today, Bantol continues to be an important agricultural area in Davao City. The

barangay is known for its lush landscapes, scenic views, and agricultural products such as
vegetables and fruits.

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B. Physical Description of the Area

Geographic Characteristics

Land Area

Barangay Bantol has a total land area of 1,432.14 hectares. Bantol is situated at

approximately 7.3019, 125.3399, in the island of Mindanao. Elevation at these coordinates is

estimated at 265.6 meters or 871.4 feet above mean sea level. Most areas are mainly steep

ranges. Soil classification is mainly miral clay loam soil.

Topography and Climate

The agricultural fields in Barangay Bantol are an important part of the local economy.

The fertile soil and favorable climate make it suitable for growing various crops, such as

vegetables, fruits, and coffee. The fields are often terraced to maximize the use of space and

prevent erosion on the hilly terrain.

In terms of climate, Barangay Bantol experiences a tropical rainforest climate. It has a

relatively high amount of rainfall throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. The average

temperature ranges from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius (75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit). The area can be

humid, especially during the rainy season.

The combination of the topography and climate in Barangay Bantol creates a unique

environment that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forests are home to various

species of trees, plants, and wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers

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Landscape

The landscape of Barangay Bantol in Marilog District, Davao City, Philippines is

characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and agricultural fields. The area is known for its

scenic beauty and is often visited by tourists and nature enthusiasts. The landscape offers

opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural surroundings.

Map

Figure 1. Map of Barangay Baguio Proper (Google Maps, 2023)

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 Chapter 2

DEMOGRAPHIC AND FAMILY PROFILE

A. LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The data for this study were collected through a survey responded by the Purok 1-

Proper only. The survey forms were filled by a family member as a representative for each of

their households with the assistance from the researchers.

B. POPULATION SIZE AND COMPOSITION

Total Population

The total population of Barangay Bantol as of 2020 is said to be 2,334 residents living

currently in the area. This represented 0.13% of the total population of Davao City. Purok 1 is

one of the puroks belonging to Barangay Bantol and has a total population of 647 residents in

the area. There are a total of 169 households in the said purok. However, only fifty (50)

households making up 30% of the total household population of 169 in Purok 1- Proper,

comprising 214 household members, were selected as respondents and interviewed for

community diagnosis.

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Age and Sex Distribution

Fifty-four percent (54%) of the population consist of males while only forty-five

percent (45%) are females. Figure 2 describes the overall distribution of the age and sex of the

respondents.

The horizontal numbers show the percentage of the respondents and the vertical line

shows the age range. Red graph indicates male respondents and blue indicates female

respondents. The highest frequency of male households’ respondents has the age range of 5-9

years old and similarly to female households with age range of 10-14 years old. The least age

percentage can be seen in ages 70-74 years old. The mean age of the entire population was 26.

Out of 50 households, 101 or 47.2% were classified as female and 113 or 52.8% were classified

as male. The frequency of each household respondent can be seen in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Age and Sex Distribution of the Household Respondents

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Marital Status
Fifty two point eight percent (54.8%) out of all the household members in the survey

were married, one point seven percent (1.7%) were separated and forty-five point five (45.5%)

were single

Education
Table 1. Demographic Educational Attainment of the Household Respondents
Education Attainment Frequency Percentage (%)

Preschool 8 3.7

Elementary level 108 50.5

Elementary Graduate 11 5.1

High School Level 66 30.8

High School Graduate 8 3.7

College Level 7 3.3

College Graduate 2 0.9

Vocational 1 0.5

Not yet in school 3 1.4

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 TOTAL 214 100

Table 1 showed that less than one percent (0.9%) of household respondents are college

graduates, which becomes the highest educational attainment of most households, followed by

college level (3.3%), elementary graduate (5.1%), elementary level (50.5%), high school

graduate (3.7%), high school level (30.8%), preschool (3.7%), and vocational training (0.5%).

Majority of the respondents (108) were elementary level. The average year of schooling is 7.6

years.

Employment Status

Table 2 showed that most household respondents, fifty percent (50%) of the population

are self-employed, twenty-nine percent (29%) are unemployed, twenty (20%) percent are

contractual employees, one percent (1%) have regular jobs.

Table 2. Demographic employment status of the Household Respondents

Employment Status Frequency Percentage (%)

Regular 1 0.86

Contractual 23 19.83

Self employed 58 50

Unemployed 34 29.31

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 TOTAL 116 100

Majority of the occupation of our respondents is farming (46%), followed by housewife,

construction worker, and vendor with a percentage of 16%, 8%, and 8%, respectively.

Table 3. Demographic occupation of the Household Respondents

Occupation Frequency Percentage

Barangay worker 2 2
BHW 2 2
BNS 2 2
Bookkeeper 1 1
CAFGU 1 1
Construction worker 8 8
Contractor 1 1
Driver 2 2
Factory worker 1 1
Farmer 45 46
Househelp 1 1
Housewife 16 16
Laborer 7 7

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 Pharmacy assistant 1 1
Vendor 8 8

Age Dependency Ratio

In this study, seventy-five (75) out the two-hundred fourteen (214) household members

involved in the survey were within the dependent ages of (<15 and >65 years old) and one-

hundred thirty nine (139) within the productive ages. Therefore, 35.04% of the 50 households of

Purok 1 depend on people of working age (16-64).

C. SOCIAL STATUS

Religion
Table 4 showed that sixty-four percent (64.5%) respondents belong to the Roman

Catholic Church. Fourteen (14.5%) percent respondents are members of the Alliance church, six

(6.5%) percent respondents are Iglesia ni Cristo members, and fourteen (14%) percent members

belong to other christian denominations.

Table 4. Household Respondent’s Religious Groups

Religion Frequency Percentage (%)

Roman Catholic 138 64.5

Alliance 31 14.5

Iglesia Ni Cristo 14 6.5

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 Others 31 14.5

TOTAL 214 100

Social Participation

One hundred percent (100%) of the households were cooperative in community activities.

Ninety-four percent (94%) respondents attended fiestas, fifty-one percent (51%) participated in

sport activities, and the remaining six percent (6%) of the 50 households didn't participate.

Literacy Rate

One-hundred percent (100%) of the respondents surveyed were able to read and write.

E. ECONOMIC STATUS

Possessions

Figure 3 showed eighteen (36%) of the households own a television and electric fan,

eleven households (22%) have a ref/freezer, five households (10%) have a radio, and two

households (4%) have other appliances.

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 Figure 3. Types of Appliances Owned

Vehicle Ownership

Among the 50 households surveyed, seventy-four percent (74%) of respondents do not

own any type of vehicle. Thirteen households (26%) own a motorcycle.

Income

In figure 4, the bar chart below indicates the income frequency of the surveyed

households. The chart shows that 14 (28%) households have a monthly income of Php 1,000-

2,999, followed by 12 (24%) households with monthly income of Php 1,000-2,999. Thus,

twenty-six out of 50 (52%) households have an income of 5,000 pesos and below. This is in

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comparison to the average Philippine family income, which is estimated at Php 24, 996 per

month (Philippine Statistics Agency, 2021). The highest income recorded in the survey is from

Php 15,000 and above which consists of 6% of the population. The mean income of the 50

households surveyed amounted to Php 8,250.

Figure 4. Monthly Income of each Household Respondents

Table 5 shows the average monthly expenditure of one household in Purok 1. It shows
that the average household income in a month is Php 8,250 with a total expenditure of Php
12,500, having a monthly deficit of Php 4,250 for each household.

Table 5. Average Monthly Expenditure

Average Expenditure Total Balance
Monthly Expenditure
Income Electricity Water Bill Food (x30) Transportat
150/day ion (x30)
240/travel)

8250 400 50 4500 7200 12500 -4250

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 Chapter 3

LIVING ENVIRONMENT

A. Physical

Environment Locality of

Houses

The total fifty (50) members from Purok 1 Proper Bantol interviewed are currently living

in Barangay Bantol, Marilog District, Davao City.

Environmental Pollution

Most households’ waste products are collected by the local City Environment and Natural

Resources (CENRO), these include paper and plastics. These households have practiced proper

waste disposal and recycling of reusable materials, however, some households still practice

burning and burying of biodegradable waste.

Mode of Transportation

Forty-eight of the 50 (96%) households surveyed stated that they have difficulties in
transportation. Tricycle is their main mode of transportation from the barangay proper to the
main highway and nearby districts. Moreover, the minimum fare for a single person would cost
Php 120.00 for a one-way trip to Calinan proper, which adds to the financial burden experienced
by the respondents.

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House Tenure

The survey showed that seventy-four percent (74%) respondent’s houses are owned,

twenty percent (20%) as caretaker, and six percent (6%) are rented.

House Condition

Most of the households interviewed are currently living in a well-structured house.

Majority of the house compositions are made of galvanized iron roofs, wooden walls, and

wooden floors.

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House Construction
Table 6. Materials used for House Construction per Household

Type of Material Frequency Percentage (%)

Floor Cement/Tiles 26 53
Wood 19 37
Earth 3 6
Bamboo 2 4
Wall Cement/Tiles 37 74
Wood 13 26
Roof Galvanized 34 68
iron/Brick
Wood 12 24
Bamboo 4 8

Electric Supply

The Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) mainly supplies surrounding areas of the

respondent households interviewed and serves as the main supply of electrical power.

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Cellular Connectivity

Out of the 50 households interviewed, 50 households (100%) have reported to have no

cellular signal on all cellular network providers within the vicinity of purok 1.

Water Supply

Most of the respondents currently living in purok 1 proper Bantol mainly depend on the

pipe water system level 3 water as the major source of water supply.

Figure 5. Water supply of purok 1 proper Bantol

Toilet
Among the 50 households surveyed, eighty-eight (88%) of the respondents have their
own toilet and twelve (12%) percent share it with their neighbors and/or relatives.

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 B. Biological Environmental

Waste Disposal

Seen in table 7 below showed the type of waste disposal practices among all 50 surveyed

households. Majority of households have their waste materials collected by CENRO as the main

way of solid waste disposal. Some households bury, throw in vacant lots, and/or feed the wastes.

Table 7. Types of Waste and Disposal Methods (N=50)

Percentage (%)
Kind of Yard Food Paper Plastic Metal Glass/
waste waste waste waste waste Bottle

CENRO 92 90 96 96 90 88

Recycle 0 0 0 4 10 0

Bury 4 2 0 0 0 12

Burn 4 0 4 0 0 0

Throw in 0 0 0 0 0 0
vacant lot

Feed 0 4 0 0 0 0

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 C. Psychosocial

Environment Worship Places

All of the 50 (100%) households surveyed have worship places less than 1 kilometer

from their houses, as worship places are situated within the vicinity of purok 1, Brgy. Bantol.

Recreation
Among the 50 households interviewed, 36 households (72%) ranked TV/Movies as their

main recreational activity with two (2) households (4%) stating that they do not have any forms

of recreation.

Table 8. Recreational Activities of the Respondents (N=50) *

Recreational Activities Frequency Percentage (%)

TV/Movies 36 72

SocMed 6 12

Sports 4 8

Videoke 1 2

Gambling 1 2

None 2 4

*Multiple response table

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 Chapter 4

HEALTH PROFILE

This chapter shows the health profile of the 50 households of Purok 1, Barangay Bantol,

Marilog District. The data presented include the morbidity and mortality, medicines, nutrition,

and women’s health.

A. Morbidity

Acute medical condition

Table 9. Acute Medical Conditions Reported by Respondents from Purok 1 Proper Bantol
(N=50)*
Medical Condition Frequency Percentage (%)

Asthma 1 2
Cough 5 10
Flu 6 12
Pneumonia 2 4
Punctured/Lacerated wound 8 16
*Multiple response table
Table 9 depicted which acute conditions that were seen in the respondents involving

residents of Purok 1 Proper Bantol during the past 12 months. Thirteen out of 50 households

with acute illness reported to have punctured/lacerated wounds (16%) and all patients reported

out-of-pocket spending for tetanus toxoid vaccine (100%) due to inadequate supply from the

Health Center.

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Chronic Medical condition

Table 10 showed which chronic conditions that were seen in the respondents involving

Residents of Purok 1 Proper Bantol during the past 12 months. It can be observed that dental

caries (50%) was the most common chronic illness, followed by hypertension observed in 13

households (26%) among the 22 households with chronic illness, and only 10 out of 13 (77%)

are compliant with their maintenance medications. Moreover, skin lesions (24%) such as scabies

and fungal infestation which was observed in 12 households among the 50 household

respondents.

Table 10. Chronic Medical Conditions Reported by Respondents from Purok 1 Proper Bantol
(N=50)*
Medical Condition Frequency Percentage

Anemia 2 4
Asthma 1 2
Chronic Kidney Disease 1 2
DM 4 8
Dental Caries 25 50
Goiter 1 2
Hypertension 13 26
Peptic Ulcer 1 2
Skin lesion (fungal, scabies, 12 24
etc)
*Multiple response table

B. Mortality

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 Mortality rate refers to the frequency of occurrence of death within a population at a

specified time interval. Among the 50 households surveyed, no mortality (0) had been reported

for the past 12 months.

C. Medicines

Paracetamol was the most common medication used in respondents' households used for

fever as shown in table 11. Other medications such as amlodipine, losartan for hypertension,

amoxicillin and co-amoxiclav for pneumonia and infections, and mefenamic acid for toothache.

Table 11. Medicine Used and Stocked in the Household of the Respondents (N=50)
Medicine Frequency Percentage

Antihypertensive

Amlodipine 2 10

Losartan 5 23

Atorvastatin 1 5

Antipyretics

Paracetamol 6 27

Antibiotics

Amoxicillin 1 5

Co-amoxiclav 2 10

Analgesics

Mefenamic Acid 2 9

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 Cough/Colds

Salbutamol 1 5

Neozep 1 5

Hydration therapy

Oresol 1 5

Vitamins

Ascorbic Acid 1 5

*Multiple response table

Use of Herbal Medicine

Most of the respondents reported to have acquired recommendations from their elders

and from family with the use of herbal medicines as seen in table 12. Kalabo has the highest

frequency of usage with twenty-six (26%) of the respondents using it for cough. Out of the 50

households interviewed, 46 households (92%) used herbal medicine, however, 33 out of the 46

households (71.7%) showed insufficient knowledge on its proper use and preparation.

Table 12. Herbal Medicine Used in the Household of the Respondents (N=50)*
Herbal Name Frequency Percentage

Ahos 1 2

Dila-dila 1 2

Elepante 1 2

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 Gabon 6 13

Kalabo 10 26

Kalamansi 2 4

Painit sa Bayabas 1 2

Pansit-pansitan 2 6

Sabana 4 13

Sinaw sinaw 8 20

Tanglad 1 2

Tawa tawa 6 3

Tuway tuway 3 3

*Multiple response table

Table 13. Recommendation for use Herbal Medicine in the Household of the Respondents
(N=50)
Source of Frequency Percentage
recommendation/prescription

Elder 29 58
Neighbor 15 30
Relatives 6 12

D. Dietary/ Nutritional Assessment

Forty-one out of the 50 (82%) households have a diet restricted to rice, vegetables, and

root crops. However, all 50 households are able to eat three meals a day but protein-rich sources

such as fish, chicken, and meat would seldom be included in their diet.

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 E. Women’s Health

OB score

The highest OB score recorded was G8P8 which were delivered via normal spontaneous

vaginal delivery. G2P2 had the highest frequency at 12 (25%) followed by G4P4 with 10

respondents (20.8%).

Table 14. OB score among female respondents (N=48)

OB Score Frequency Percentage (%)

G1P1 8 16.7
G2P2 12 25
G3P3 8 16.7
G4P4 10 20.8
G5P5 6 12.5
G6P6 2 4.2
G7P7 1 2.1
G8P8 1 2.1

Pregnancies

Among the 48 women respondents of reproductive age, no one is currently pregnant. In

the past 5 years, 12 women gave birth and were able to deliver term without any reported

complications. All 12 mothers have prenatal care, with 96% started prenatal check-ups within the

first trimester and 4% in the second trimester. All mothers received post natal care with a

minimum of 2 post-natal visits.

34
Place of Delivery

Of the 12 mothers who gave birth in the last 5 years, 8 mothers delivered at the hospital, 3

delivered in a birthing home facility, and 1 delivered at home.

F. Child Health

Regular medical check for children <5 years old

Out of twelve (12) respondents surveyed, all twelve (12) respondents (100%)

had been seen regularly by a medical professional.

Deworming for children <5 years old

Out of twelve (12) respondents surveyed, three (3) had not been dewormed and

nine (9) had been dewormed.

Vitamin A for children <5 years old

Out of twelve (12) respondents surveyed, eleven (11) had been given vitamin A

and one (1) had not received any vitamin A.

Immunization for children <5 years old

Out of twelve (12) respondents surveyed, twelve (12) had been given BCG, Hep

B, DPT1, DPT2, DPT3, OPV1, OPV2, OPV3. Ten (10) had received Measles and two (2)

had not received. Out of the twelve respondents under 5 years of age, ten (10) had been

fully immunized.

35
 Out of twelve (12) respondents surveyed, all twelve (12) had received their

vaccination at the local health center.

G. Utilization of Health Services

Twelve percent (12%) of the respondents did not seek any consultation. Eighty-eight

percent (88%) of which sought consultation. Thirty percent (30%) of those who sought

consultation had their consultation with a Barangay Health Worker and the remaining seventy

percent (70%) sought consultation with a physician when having symptoms of illness. Based on

the survey, the respondents stated that they had observed 1 doctor, 1 nurse, 12 barangay health

workers, 2 barangay nutrition scholar, and 1 dentist.

Access to Health Services

Table 15 depicted Immunization as the most availed service by the 50 households

interviewed with ninety-eight percent (98%), followed by Check-ups/consultation and Free

medicine with ninety-four percent (94%) and thirty percent (30%) respectively. Ninety-two

percent (92%) of the households availed Family Planning.

Table 15. Health services accessed by Household of the Respondents (N=50)

Health Services Frequency Percentage

Consultations 47 94

36
 Family Planning 46 92

Free Medicine 47 94

Immunization 49 98

H. Health Risk Factors

Among the 50 households interviewed, a total of 19 households (38%) have a cigarette

smoker among one of its adult members. Only eight (16%) individuals were engaged in

gambling and no household reported the use of illegal drugs.

Figure 6. Health risk factors of household respondents.

37
 Chapter 5

THE PROBLEM

A. Problem Identification

Table 16: Problem Identification

8 out of 60 (13%) individuals with acute illness had punctured / lacerated wounds, and 8 out
of 8 (100%) patients had out-of-pocket spending for Tetanus Toxoid vaccination.

46 out of 50 (92%) households surveyed in Purok 1 of Barangay Bantol have inappropriate

use of medicinal plants as their therapeutic regimen

25 respondents of the 50 households (50%) surveyed reported that their household have
dental caries.

12 respondents of the 50 households (24%) surveyed reported that their household have tinea
corporis, scabies, and foot lesions.

13 respondents of the 50 households (60%) reported that their household had a case of
hypertension, 10 out of 13 (77%) are compliant with their maintenance medications.

41 out of 50 (82%) households have a diet restricted to rice, vegetables, and root crops.

26 out of 50 (52%) households have income of 5,000 and below.

19 out of 50 (38%) households have a smoker in their household.

48 out of 50 (96%) households have difficulties in transportation.

50 out of 50 (100%) have no regular cellular network signal.

1. No Tetanus Toxoid Vaccination

8 out of 60 (13%) of households had members that had punctured / lacerated wound, and
8 out of 8 (100%) patients had out-of-pocket spending for Tetanus Toxoid vaccination.

38
 46% of the workers in Purok 1 worked as Farmers, and 8.16% worked as laborers. The
proponents also have observed that most children play barefoot on the ground. The Rural
Health Nurse has also informed the proponents that there has been 1 case of confirmed
tetanus infection in Purok 1 in the past year. There has no supply of tetanus toxoid
vaccine since March 2023. Considering that the majority in the community work as
farmers and laborers, which are prone to puncture wounds, abrasions, and lacerations,
there is a dire need for tetanus toxoid vaccination.

2. Inappropriate Use of Medicinal Plants

46 out of 50 (92%) households surveyed in Purok 1 of Barangay Bantol have
inappropriate use of medicinal plants as their therapeutic regimen, 33 out of the 46
(71.7%) showed insufficient knowledge on their proper use and preparation. Most
households in the community use medicinal plants as part of their treatment, some use
medicinal plants not indicated for a particular illness such as Ulasimang Bato for
Hypertension. The data that have been gathered also showed that 51.18% and 31.28% of
the respondents gave educational attainment at the Elementary level and High School
level, respectively. This may contribute to their lack of knowledge in terms of medicinal
plant use, and compliance to their prescribed medications.

3. Dental Health Problems

25 respondents of the 50 households (50%) surveyed reported that their household have
dental caries. The proponents have also observed that most members of the community
have some missing teeth. Some members of the community have also have expressed that
dental health is not accessible since the Dentist is at the RHU in Marahan, and is only
available 2x per week. BHWs also have informed the proponents that dental health is not
a priority in the community.

4. Skin Lesions

39
 12 respondents of the 50 households (24%) surveyed reported that their household have
tinea corporis, scabies, and foot lesions. As mentioned, the proponents have observed that
most children play barefoot on the ground, and have skin lesions on their legs and arms.

5. Hypertension
13 respondents of the 50 households (60%) reported that their household had a case of
hypertension, 10 out of 13 (77%) are compliant with their maintenance medications.
Those who are not compliant use medicinal plants such as garlic and lemon grass as
therapeutic regimens for their hypertension.

6. Low Protein Diet

41 out of 50 (82%) households have diet restricted to rice, vegetables, and root crops.
Due to the inaccessibility of the area, there are few fish and meat that are sold in the area.
Most also do not eat eggs as part of their regular diet. Animal Proteins produce essential
amino acids that are difficult to find in plant sources.

7. Rampant Poverty
26 out of 50 (52%) households have income of 5,000 pesos and below. 13 out of 50 (26
%) of households have income below 10,000 pesos. The PSA (Philippine Statistics
Authority) defines Poor as having a monthly income of less than 9,100 pesos.
Approximately 78% of the households surveyed live below the poverty line. The
proponents have also observed that there is a lack of small businesses such as parlors,
bakeries, vulcanizing shop, and wet markets. This low economic status have contributed
in the members of the community foregoing health concerns and health promotion, such
as basic hygiene (toothbrushing) for more basic needs such as food.

8. Difficulties in Transportation
48 out of 50 (98%) households have difficulties in transportation. Aside from being a
GIDA, Brgy. Bantol also has very few means of transportation such as the “Ombak”

40
 which costs 120 pesos per person one way. Majority of the road is also unpaved, and
traverses the side of the steep mountain. This high expense in transportation and concerns
in safety during travel, have greatly affected their health seeking behaviors since most
members of the community would not go to the The Rural Health Unit in Marilog until
their symptoms are already unbearable.

9. Smoking
19 out of 50 (38%) households have a smoker in their household. The proponents have
also noted that some chew on tobacco leaves, which have not been accounted for
statistically by this survey.

10. Poor Cellular Network Signal

50 out of 50 (100%) have no regular cellular network signal. This lack of ability to
connect and communicate have greatly stunted the influx of knowledge and information
in Brgy. Bantol, as well as the ability to call for help during emergency cases or in times
of calamities.

B. Problem Prioritization
Table 17: Prioritization of Problems
Problem Nature of Magnitude Modifiabilit Social Score Rank
the of the y/ Concern
Problem Problem Vulnerabilit
y to Change
Tetanus Toxoid 1 3 2.66 1 7.66 2nd
Vaccine
Inappropriate 0.66 3 4 1 8.66 1st
Medicinal Plant
Use
Dental Health 1 3 2.66 1 7.66 2nd

41
 Problems
Difficulties in 0.33 3 1.33 2 6.66 3rd
Transportation
Hypertension 1 0.75 2.66 1 5.41 4th
Low Protein 1 3 1.33 0 5.33 7th
Diet
Rampant 0.33 3 0 1 4.33 9th
Poverty
Smoking 0.66 1.5 1.33 1 4.99 8th
Poor Cellular 0.33 3 0 2 5.33 7th
Network Signal

42
 Adequate supply of certain medicinal plants

Sufficient supply
of medicinal plants
in the community

43
44
 ASSESSMENT OF THE CAUSES
Table 18. Assessment of Causes that can be acted upon by the health sector and other sectors

Can be acted upon by the health sector Can be acted upon by other sectors

Inability to identify medicinal from non- Lack of transportation

medicinal plants
Lack of knowledge of right indication of Inadequate infrastructure
medicinal plants
Inappropriate traditional preparation of Lack of Financial resources
medicinal plants
Decrease usage of prescribed medications Low income

Lack of availability of the medicinal plants in Reliance on alternative treatment

the community
Inadequate supply of medicines Lack of access to information on medicinal plants
Lack of accessibility to medicines Lack of training in the preparation of medicinal plants

Inability to sell produce

45
 ASSESSMENT OF THE CAUSES

Table 19. Assessment of causes that needs short term and long term solution

Needs Short term solution Needs Long Term solution

Inability to identify medicinal from non- Inadequate Infrastructure

medicinal plants

Lack of knowledge of right indication of Lack of transportation

medicinal plants

Inappropriate traditional preparation of Lack of Financial resources

medicinal plants

Decrease usage of medications Low income

Lack of availability of the medicinal plants in Inability to sell produce

the community

46
 Health Action Plan
Title: Medicinal na mga tanom, Makagagahom!!!
Problem:
46 out of 50 (92%) households surveyed in Purok 1 of Barangay Bantol have
inappropriate use of medicinal plants as their therapeutic regimen, 33 out of the 46
(71.7%) showed insufficient knowledge on their proper use and preparation.

Rationale:
Ethnomedicine refers to the traditional healing practices and indigenous medical
knowledge that have been passed down through generations within a specific culture or
community. In the Philippines, ethnomedicine plays a significant role in the healthcare system,
especially in rural and remote areas where access to modern medicine may be limited, Barangay
Bantol, Marilog District is one example of such areas; being identified as a Geographically
Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) by the Department of Health (DOH). Ethnomedicine in
the Philippines often involves the use of various plant species for medicinal purposes. In
communities like Barangay Bantol, with limited access to modern healthcare facilities,
ethnomedicine serves as the primary form of healthcare. Traditional healers are highly respected
members of the community and play a vital role in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Traditional
healers, known as "herbolarios" or "albularyos," have deep knowledge of the healing properties
of different plants.

The DOH has recognized the importance of traditional and herbal medicine, including the
use of medicinal plants, as part of the country's healthcare system. The DOH has implemented
various initiatives and programs related to medicinal plants to promote their safe and effective
use for healthcare purposes. As mentioned, medicinal plants, have been an integral part of
traditional Filipino healthcare for generations. They are used for various purposes, such as
treating common ailments, relieving discomfort, and promoting overall well-being. Commonly
used plants include guava leaves for diarrhea, lagundi for coughs, and ginger for various
ailments. In the gathering of data, the proponents of this paper have discovered that 46 out of 50
(92%) households surveyed in Purok 1 of Barangay Bantol used medicinal plants as their
therapeutic regimen, 33 out of the 46 (71.7%) showed insufficient knowledge on their proper use

47
and preparation. The proponents have also observed endemic medicinal plants growing in the
community that are not being utilized properly such as Akapulko and Bayabas. After thorough
consultation with the community leaders, barangay health workers, and other stakeholders, the
group have decided to prioritize fortify the traditional use of medicinal plants in the community.

General Objective: Fortify the Appropriate use of herbal plants of the residents in Purok 1,
Barangay Bantol, Marilog District, Davao City.
Specific Objectives:
a. Develop the ability of the residents in identifying medicinal plants versus non-medicinal

plants

b. Enhance the knowledge of the residents in the right indications of medicinal plants

c. Improve the skills of the residents in the proper handling and preparation of medicinal

plants for therapeutic purposes

d. Increase the quantity and variability of available herbal plants in the community

48
 CAUSES OF SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES RESOURCES TIME PERSONS OBJECTIVELY
THE OBJECTIVES NEEDED FRAME RESPONSIBLE VERIFIABLE
PROBLEM INDICATOR
Inability to Develop the Lecture on Medicinal Projector Lecture: Medical Clerks Games on Plant
identify ability of the Plants at: Identification
Microphone September Assisted by
medicinal plants residents in
a. School (at least 27, 2023 Health Center
from non- identifying Speakers
50 students Nurse and BHWs
medicinal plants identify Barangay:
from different Laptop
medicinal plants
grade levels) 8:00am-
Snacks
10:00am In Coordination
b. Barangay
with Barangay
Health Center
Officials and
(at least 50 School Officials
community
members)

Putting labels on
medicinal plants in the Resource speaker
garden Labels on Medicinal
September PITAHC Plants (common
Labels with 28, 2023 Consultant name)
Posters of medicinal Sticks
8:00am-
plants with pictures 10:00am
and indications
Posters outside of
health center, barangay
hall, and waiting shed.

49
 Posters

Lack of Enhance the Lecture on Medicinal Projector Lecture: Medical Clerks Games on
knowledge of the knowledge of the Plants at: identification of plants
Microphone September Assisted by
residents in the residents in the
c. School (at least 27, 2023 Health Center
right indications right indications Speakers
40 students Nurse and BHWs
of medicinal of herbal plants Barangay:
from different Laptop
plants
grade levels) 9:00am-
Snacks
12:00pm In Coordination
d. Barangay
with Barangay
Health Center
Officials and
(at least 40 School Officials
community Tarpaulins
members)
Posters of medicinal
plants with pictures
and indications

September
27, 2023
Lack of available Increase the Planting more Seedlings Medical Clerks Establishment of
medicinal plants quantity and medicinal plants in the Barangay Health Center
Shovel Assisted by
in the variability of Health Center Garden Health Medicinal Plant
Health Center
community available herbal Garden Soil Center: Garden
Nurse and BHWs
plants in the
Fertilizers 1:00pm-
community Provision of seedlings
3:00pm

50
 for personal medicinal Gardening In Coordination
plant gardens Tools with Barangay
Officials
Designated
Area in the
Lecture on proper care
Health Center
and propagation of
medicinal plants

Improper Improve the Return demonstration Projector Lecture: Medical Clerks Production of
preparation of skills of the on proper preparation ointments, balms, and
Speakers September Assisted by
medicinal plants residents in the of medicinal plants for liniments from
27, 2023 Health Center
for therapeutic proper handling specific ailments Microphone medicinal plants
Nurse and BHWs
purposes and preparation Barangay:
(at least 40 community Laptop
of herbal plants
members) 9:00am-
for therapeutic Snacks Produced ointments,
purposes 12:00pm In Coordination
balms, and liniments
with Barangay
show effectiveness on
Return demonstration Officials
clay pot target ailments
on how to create
ointments, liniments, wooden spoon
and balms from
medicinal plants wood/charcoal
portable furnace
containers
candles
oil

51
 Chapter 6

ACCOMPLISHMENT REPORT

Activities

On the 27th day of September 2023, with the help of Philippine Institute of Traditional
and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) and the local government of Brgy. Bantol, Marilog
District, a Health Action Plan titled “Medicinal na tanum, Makagagahum” was implemented in
Purok 1, Brgy. Bantol. This activity was conducted to address the identified problem which is
“46 out of 50 (92%) households surveyed in Purok 1 of Barangay Bantol have inappropriate use
of medicinal plants as their therapeutic regimen, 33 out of the 46 (71.7%) showed insufficient
knowledge on their proper use and preparation”. A total of 65 total participants composed of
barangay health workers (BHW), barangay officials and functionaries, barangay women’s
association, and members of households from the 50 households interviewed during the
community diagnosis.

A resource speaker from PITAHC, Ma’am Annette Atanacio, conducted the lecture on the
proper identification, indiciation, and preparation of the 10 herbal plants approved by the
Department of Health (DOH).

The following activities were done:

1. Develope the ability of the residents in identifying medicinal plants.

A lecture was conducted by a resource speaker from PITAHC on the 10 medicinal

plants approved by DOH. Plant samples of lagundi, niyog niyogan, ulasimang bato,
akapulko, tsaang gubat were presented to the participants for proper identification. Moreover,
an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) material in the form of audiovisual
material and posters was placed in the venue. Approximately 92% of the participants were
able to correctly identify the herbal plants during the post-activity evaluation.

52
 Fig. 9. IEC on DOH-approved herbal plants

2. Enhance the knowledge of the residents in the right indications of herbal plants.

53
 After presenting and properly identifying the 10 medicinal plants, the resource
speaker discussed the right indications of each herbal plant. A pre-activity evaluation was
conducted to assess the baseline knowledge of the participants on the right indication for
each herbal plant. After the lecture, approximately 88% of the participants were able to know
the correct indication of each herbal plant that was discussed.

Fig. 10. Lecture on herbal medicine with a PITAHC representative.

3. Increase the quantity and variability of available herbal plants in the community.

A medicinal plant garden was established in the backyard of Brgy. Bantol Health
Center to increase the quantity and variability of available herbal plants that the community
can utilize. Seedlings of lagundi, niyog-niyogan, tsaang gubat, and sambong were procured
from PITAHC and herbal medicine already present in the community were replanted in the
medicinal plant garden.

54
 Fig. 11. Establishment of a medicinal plant garden.

4. Improve the skills of the residents in the proper handling and preparation of herbal plants
for therapeutic purposes.

Aside from lectures, a demonstration on the proper preparation of medicinal plants was
conducted to educate the participants on the appropriate materials to be used, proper formulation,
and correct application of each medicinal plant. The resource speaker, along with the medical
clerks, prepared a decoction of tsaang gubat and ointment of akapulko. These products were then
distributed to all the participants.

55
Fig. 12. Demonstration on the proper handling and preparation of medicinal plants.

56
 Policy Brief

Project Title: Medicinal na Tanom, Makagagahom!

Executive Summary:

Marilog district is home to many indigenous tribes, and these tribes have a rich tradition
of using medicinal plants for various health purposes. The Obu Manobo tribe comprises the
majority of inhabitants of Barangay Bantol, and it is important to note, that like many other
indigenous tribes, they have a deep knowledge of their environment and the plants that grow
there. They have developed a holistic understanding of how these plants can be used their well-
being, not just for their physical health but also for their cultural and spiritual practices. These
practices are passed down from one generation to another orally, and knowledge may vary from
one sub-group to another.

Our group acknowledges the historical, scientific, and cultural significance of these
knowledge and practices in the community, and thus we have crafted a policy that would not
only document this knowledge but also fortify. This policy aims to help this community enrich
their knowledge and improve their practices. We seek to supplement modern medical practices
with traditional medicine, upon which our utmost goal is improving the health and wellness of
the community.

Context / Scope of the Problem:

The proponents of this policy brief have conducted a community diagnosis wherein they
have found that 92% of the households surveyed in Purok 1 of Barangay Bantol use medicinal
plants for various health related purposes, but 71.7% showed inappropriate knowledge on their
proper use as well as preparation.

Policy Alternatives:

There are current laws and proposed ordinances that have similar goals with this policy brief.

57
1. Traditional and Alternative Medicine Act (R.A. No. 8423): This law recognizes the
importance of traditional and alternative medicine in the Philippines and established
the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC).
PITAHC is responsible for research, regulation, and promotion for medicinal plant
use. They also conduct lectures and workshops for the proper identification, use, and
preparation of medicinal plants.

2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA of the Philippines is responsible for
regulating food, drugs, and health products in the country, including herbal medicines
and supplements. Manufacturers and distributors of herbal products are required to
secure FDA approval or registration to ensure product safety and quality.

3. Traditional and Alternative Medicine Products (TAMP): In line with the mission of the
FDA, they categorize traditional and herbal products as TAMPs. The FDA regulates
and registers these products, and ensures safety and quality,

4. Ethnopharmacology research: The Philippines through the Department of Science and

Technology (DOST) and the research arm of the Department of Health (DOH) have
had several studies on Ethnomedicinal plants, and many are still on going.

5. Project TAMBAL or “Tanom nga Medisina Bahandi sa Lawas,” (Medicinal Plants

Precious to the Body): This was a proposal in the city council of Davao City on 2016.
The resolution, approved on second reading, is a community-based herbal medicine
project aimed to address the “persistent social and health concern on the availability,
or the lack of medicines in the health centers”. The law provides for the formulation
of policies for the protection of indigenous and natural health resources and
technology from unwanted exploitation, for approval and adoption by the appropriate
government agencies. It also provides for the formulation of policies to strengthen the
role of traditional and alternative health care delivery system.

58
Policy Recommendations:

The proponents of this policy aiming to fortify the use of medicinal plants in Barangay Bantol
knows that it will require the involvement of efforts at various levels of society, from individuals,
families, communities to government agencies and research institutions. Thus they have laid out
these recommendations:

1. Promote Traditional Knowledge: Push for local preservation and sharing of traditional
knowledge about medicinal plants not just among the Obu Manobo tribe but also
from the local Visayan people, as well as from other indigenous tribes in Marilog
District. This includes proper documentation of traditional uses, preparation, methods,
indications, routes, and dosages.

2. Research Validation: Support on the efficacy and safety of medicinal plants that would
need the collaboration between traditional healers, scientists, medical doctors, and
researchers. This would help validate traditional knowledge and identify other
potential therapeutic properties of these medicinal plants.

3. Conservation: Push for local ordinances that would encourage propagation, sustainable
harvesting and cultivation practices that protect medicinal plants from overharvesting
and extinction. This could be done by cultivation of species that are difficult to find or
are endangered in community gardens or nurseries.

4. Training and Lectures: Collaboration with existing government agencies like PITAHC
to train community members in the proper use, cultivation, identification, preparation,
route, and dosages of medicinal plants found in the community.

5. Cultural Preservation: Recognize and respect the cultural significance of medicinal

plants in the community. Efforts to preserve cultural traditions will help protect both
traditional knowledge and biodiversity.

6. Integration with Modern Medicine: Physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers,
especially those that are in the community must also be trained how to use medicinal
59
 plants, their preparations, indications, routes, and other relevant information. These
Healthcare workers must also be the ones to help push for the integration of medicinal
plant use with modern therapeutic regimens.

7. Community-Based Enterprise: Down the line, with enough support and training, the
community with its rich resource of medicinal plants should be helped to venture into
producing medicinal plant based healthcare products such as liniments, ointments,
soaps, and balms. This can generate income for the barangay, and help in the
financing of other healthcare needs.

Improving the use of medicinal plants in Barangay Bantol is a multifaceted effort that
may take time to be fully realized but the seeds are there and are just waiting to be properly
cultivated. This endeavor requires coordinated effort among diverse sectors. Combining
traditional wisdom with modern research and sustainable practices, this community can harness
the full potential of its rich medicinal plant heritage for the benefit of its people.

60
 REFERENCES

1. Bantol, Davao City Profile – PhilAtlas [Internet]. Philatlas.com. [cited 2023 Sep 8].
Available from: https://www.philatlas.com/mindanao/r11/davao-city/bantol.html
2. City planning development office [Internet]. Gov.ph. [cited 2023 Sep 8]. Available from:
https://cpdo.davaocity.gov.ph/
3. Philippine statistics authority - ARMM [Internet]. Gov.ph. [cited 2023 Sep 8]. Available
from: https://rssoarmm.psa.gov.ph/release/content/special/55134
4. Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care. Gov.ph. [cited 2023 Sep
8]. Available from: https://pitahc.gov.ph/

61
 APPENDIX I
Informed Consent for Household Survey of Community Diagnosis

62
 APPENDIX II
Survey Form for Household Survey of Community Diagnosis

63
64
65
66
67
 APPENDIX III

Letter to PITAHC-DOH on the conduct of lecture on medicinal plants

APPENDIX IV
68
Letter to the Barangay for the conduct of Health Action Plan

APPENDIX V

69
Program of activities for the Health Action Plan

70
 APPENDIX VI

Attendance sheet of participants during the conducted Health Action Plan

71
72
73
 APPENDIX VII

Approval for Community Diagnosis Presentation

74
CURRICULUM VITAE

75
76
77
78
79
80
81