ASSESSING COMMUNITY HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT NEEDS: A CASE STUDY OF SITIO TAGALEB, IBA, ZAMBALES

ABSTRACT: Limited access to healthcare in rural and indigenous communities, such as Sitio Tagaleb, Barangay Bangantalinga, Iba, Zambales, significantly contributes to health disparities and exacerbates socioeconomic inequalities. This study explores the healthcare and other development needs of Sitio Tagaleb, a newly adopted community of President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU), to propose extension programs through a community-university partnership. Using a case study design, data were gathered through focus group discussions with 60 heads of families and 20 barangay officials. Thematic analysis revealed several urgent needs, including healthcare support, improved access to medical supplies, basic first aid training, family planning education, livelihood opportunities, clean water, alternative energy sources, and infrastructure development. The findings underscored the necessity of a holistic, multi-sectoral approach to community extension services, where PRMSU’s College of Nursing could address health-related needs, while other colleges could support agricultural development, infrastructure projects, and renewable energy initiatives. The study recommends the establishment of targeted extension programs, collaboration with government agencies, and continuous community engagement to ensure sustainable impact. Future studies may benefit from incorporating quantitative methods for a broader assessment of community needs.

KEYWORDS: Community needs-assessment, extension program,