PUBLIC SPACES: A Descriptive Study on the Use of the Multifunctionalities of Public Spaces in Barangay 93 of District If Zone 8, Tondo, Manila

Abstract

The multifunctional use of the Barangay 93 Basketball Court, Inocencio Street and Estero de Vitas Riverside reflects' the way of life of the barangay residents. The economic status of the barangay is semi-depressed because many residents are uneducated and unemployed. However, given such profile, the residents manage to survive by utilizing the three public spaces primarily for economic purposes. The large population of the barangay has benefits and drawback for the barangay. Small scale economies survive in the area because of the large population. However, the resources of the barangay are depleting because many people use the resources. The most common use of the three public spaces is the acquirement of livelihood. Selling of dried fish and food for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks are the barangay's common source of income. The use of the public space towards religious affairs reflects the religiosity of the barangay residents. They prepare for the Feast of Sto. Nino and celebrate Nazareno Feast and Santacruzan with the use of the Barangay 93 Basketball Court and 54 Inocencio Street. Eucharistic celebration is also being held every Sunday in the Barangay 93 Basketball Court. Moreover, the three public spaces also function as playground for children and recreation area for the residents because they are far from the main road. The residents can. set their tables and chairs for their bingo and billiard games because of the ample space of these public spaces. The accessibility of these three public spaces for the barangay helps them in their everyday living. The three public spaces are very beneficial especially for those who sell food and other commodities because they are always crowded. The Barangay 93 Basketball Court and the Inocencio Street also serve as a free parking lot for the residents. It is concluded that the Barangay 93 Basketball Court has the most functions and the most accessible among the three public spaces. However, all three public spaces help shape the social condition and way of life of the barangay.