A Community-Based Assessment on Public Transportation Needs of Sitio Remedios (Dakung), Sasmuan, Pampanga

Abstract

 A needs assessment survey is an important tool for investigating and identifying problems in a particular location in order that they may be addressed correctly without wasting both time and resources.  Analyzing community problems is a process of examining a problem or issue extensively before acting on a solution. It starts with identifying the underlying causes of a problem, then continues to propose possible solutions and a strategy for change. Accordingly, the researchers aimed to assess Sitio Remedios (Dakung), Sasmuan, Pampanga, to understand how residents get to their destinations and the transportation issues, they frequently face daily to suggest solutions and improvements that could greatly benefit and cater the needs of the community. The research methods utilized are a quantitative, descriptive approach wherein survey questionnaires were administered among 358 individuals for the household interview survey, 20 respondents for the roadside interview, and a 12-hour traffic count for the screen line survey. The findings provided the characteristics of a person's travel, current travel patterns and routines, transportation modes, fare cost, and the kind of improvements (infrastructures and or services) that respondents believe will benefit the community most significantly. The volume capacity ratio (VCR) of the San Pedro bridge was calculated and evaluated to assess traffic volume and determine whether it needed to be modified or enhanced. Using the results of the assessments, a conclusion has been made confirming that Sitio Remedios has numerous transportation issues that negatively impact people's mobility. The researchers' recommendations are based on the study's findings and conclusions from the community-based evaluation, which include a prospective bridge project, upgrading existing road networks, and improving ports and harbors.