This capstone project of the Master in Public Health International of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery initiated the development of community health programs. Phase 1K, Kasiglahan Village, Barangay San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal, a partner community of the University of Santo Tomas - SIMBAHAYAN Community Development Office was chosen as the primary stakeholder for the implementation of this capstone project.

Addressing the identified priority problem of lacking a community-based strategy in the community, the project aimed to initiate community-based prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) through risk factor reduction in Phase 1K-Kasiglahan Village, Barangay San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal at the end of the 6-week project timeline. Specifically, the project aimed (1) to increase the mobilization of the community through a consultative workshop, (2) to raise awareness of the community through Information, education, and communication (IEC) materials, and (3) to increase the baseline knowledge of the community through public health education lay forum.

The project outputs include (1) mobilization of the community leaders in identifying their own health problems and in formulating their interventions, (2) posting and distribution of IECs in the community, and (3) increased baseline knowledge after the public health education lay forum.

With the potential of influencing local policies to improve the health of the community, this project was formally and officially endorsed to the community through its local government leaders, rural health unit officials, and community leaders.