Barangay Kauswagan
Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay Province
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Historical Background
Historical Background
Alicia, originally Naga-Naga, was established in 1951 via Executive Order No. 468 by President Elpidio Quirino, separating it from Margosatubig in old Zamboanga province. In 1977, three barangays joined the new municipality of Imelda. Alicia became part of Zamboanga Sibugay in 2001 through Republic Act No. 8973, led by George T. Hofer, the province's first governor.
Barangay Kauswagan, once a sitio of Barangay Baluno (now Milagrosa), was founded on September 14, 1962, under Lamberto Salisig’s leadership. Named after uswag (progress), it reflects the area's agricultural prosperity. Its founding is celebrated annually on September 14.
Land Area and Boundaries
Land Area and Boundaries
Barangay Kauswagan, covering 1,421 hectares, is located 9.8 km east of Poblacion in Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay. It has three puroks: Manga (Red), Santol (Yellow), and Malipayon (Green). It borders Barangay Payongan (north), Alegria (east), Kapatagan (south), and San Vicente in Malangas (west).
Topography and Climate
Topography and Climate
Barangay Kauswagan features a predominantly hilly to mountainous landscape, with elevations ranging from 106 to 298 meters above sea level, classifying it as an upland area. This terrain supports small-scale mining activities. The rugged, rocky roads become especially challenging during the rainy season when they turn muddy and difficult to pass. As a result, access is limited for many vehicles, making the habal-habal—a motorcycle used for carrying passengers and goods—the primary mode of transport between Kauswagan and Poblacion. Travel time typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on weather and road conditions.
The climate in Alicia is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The area experiences an average temperature of 29.88°C, around 197.5 mm of rainfall annually, and about 287 rainy days each year. Humidity averages 86.01%. Due to its elevation, Barangay Kauswagan experiences slight variations in temperature and humidity compared to lower areas, which plays a key role in supporting the community’s agricultural activities.
Local Health Delivery System
Local Health Delivery System
Barangay Kauswagan’s healthcare system follows the decentralized model of the Philippines, with a single Barangay Health Station (BHS) funded by local resources for medical supplies and operations. Due to its distance from the Rural Health Unit (RHU) in Poblacion, the BHS is staffed only once a month by a nurse or midwife, limiting access to services like immunizations, deworming, prenatal care, and family planning. Three Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) provide basic services like blood pressure checks and link the community to the broader health system. A Barangay Nutrition Scholar (BNS) oversees nutrition programs and educates residents on health practices per Department of Health guidelines. However, the lack of a resident physician and medication supply means many cases are referred to the RHU or Alicia District Hospital (ADH). PhilHealth members can access free e-Konsulta services and medications at ADH by presenting their Member Data Record (MDR). For emergencies, including childbirth, residents are advised to seek care at the RHU or ADH due to limited facilities and trained personnel in the barangay.
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