Revitalizing Balud: A

Comprehensive Urban
Planning Strategy for
Calbayog City
A proposed design recommendation for
community planning of Brgy. Balud,
Calbayog City
INTRODUCTION
Barangay Balud, nestled within the vibrant fabric of
Calbayog City in the Philippines, is a reflection of the
historical evolution of urban and community development
in the region. Serving as a key focal point for social,
cultural, and economic activities, it embodies a
harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that has
sculpted its distinctive urban landscape. The area was
originally a small rural community, that has undergone
significant changes driven by historical events, economic
shifts, and social influences.

The urban layout and community structure are shaped by

a myriad of factors, both internal and external. Population
growth, migration patterns, infrastructure development,
and governance. These factors shape the physical and
cultural landscape of the area. The resulting environment
is dynamic, multifaceted, and reflecting the community's
history and its ongoing development.
 Barangay Balud has experienced significant
population growth, currently accommodating a
diverse community of approximately 3,129
residents (Philippine Statistics Authority,
Gomez Ext. 2020) However, amidst this growth, critical
urban planning challenges persist, threatening
its livability and hindering sustainable
development. These challenges include
inadequate housing, lack of green spaces, high
population density straining community
cohesion and safety, security concerns, and
insufficient infrastructure.

Through this study the designer aims to tackle

critical issues that threaten Barangay Balud's
well-being and development. The researcher
will use findings from a field visit to create a
comprehensive redevelopment proposal plan
envisioning a more sustainable, livable, and
safe environment for the community.
STATEMENT OF THE
Barangay Balud in Calbayog City faces several significant urban challenges that
PROBLEM
hinder its community's mobility, safety, and overall quality of life. These
challenges include severe traffic congestion, where roads experience frequent
jams, leading to long travel times and safety hazards for commuters.
Overpopulation strains the barangay's infrastructure and services, causing
overcrowding and resource depletion. Inadequate road networks contribute to
traffic bottlenecks and limited accessibility within the barangay.

Disorder in public spaces, such as poorly maintained or improperly utilized areas,

affects the community's aesthetic and functional appeal. Insufficient parking
space results in congestion on streets and difficulty finding parking. The lack of
clear road signage leads to confusion among drivers, potentially causing
accidents. Additionally, the absence of pedestrian lanes forces pedestrians to
share roads with vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents and reducing safety.

Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive urban planning and

infrastructure development to enhance living conditions and improve the urban
environment in Barangay Balud.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE
The study of the urban challenges facing Barangay Balud in Calbayog City
STUDY
holds significant importance for the community. It aims to improve the
overall quality of life for residents by addressing issues such as traffic
congestion, overpopulation, and inadequate infrastructure. Additionally, the
study seeks to enhance safety by addressing the lack of road signage,
disorder in public spaces, and absence of pedestrian lanes.

Furthermore, the study's focus on sustainable urban planning strategies can

promote long-term sustainability for Barangay Balud. By creating a more
livable and functional urban environment, the study has the potential to
attract businesses and investors, leading to economic growth and prosperity.

Moreover, the study's engagement with property owners, commercial

brokers, and citizens through focus group meetings demonstrates a
commitment to community engagement. This approach fosters a sense of
ownership and participation in barangay development, ensuring that the
study's findings and recommendations are aligned with the needs and
aspirations of the community.
METHODOLOGY
Before initiating data collection,
authorization for conducting research
was obtained from the barangay council
of Barangay Balud. Initial groundwork
involved extensive engagement with
barangay councilors and the SK
chairman in Barangay Balud to articulate
the research objectives and to seek their
cooperation.
The research employed a comprehensive
multi-method, multi-phase approach,
where the findings of each phase
informed subsequent stages. Various
facets of the revitalization of Barangay
Balud were identified, analyzed, and
addressed.
Phase 1: Mapping Physical Changes
The initial phase focused on identifying physical changes within Barangay
Balud through a combination of techniques including on-site inventories, and
interviews with residents and key stakeholders. Fieldwork involved traversing
through the inner parts of Barangay Balud to document physical alterations.
Data collected were then synthesized into maps, qualitative site inspection
reports, and compared with historical map data and photographic
documentation.
Phase 2: Understanding Socio-Cultural Dynamics
The second phase aimed to explore the intangible dimensions of revitalization,
particularly socio-cultural values influencing the development of Barangay
Balud. This phase utilized photo-based Q-methodology to extract and analyze
subjective perceptions and values of community members. Insights derived
from this phase aided in:
1. Identifying fundamental issues related to the revitalization of Barangay
Balud.
2. Understanding underlying causes of observed changes.
3. Projecting potential future development trends.
4. Characterizing factors essential for the sustainability of the revitalization
efforts.