Public Open Spaces as a Factor for Well-Being and Social Relations among Adults: An Exploratory Study in Silang, Cavite

Abstract

Public open spaces are areas of public value that include green spaces, blue spaces, and gray spaces. It offers a wide range of elements and activities that provide benefits to quality of life more specifically to well-being and social relations. This study explored the relationship between public open spaces, well-being, and social relations among adults in Silang, Cavite. It focused on the significance of public open spaces in the lives of the residents. Additionally, it identified the qualities of public open spaces that facilitate well-being and social relations. Lastly, it gathered the recommendations of the community for their welfare. This was done through an exploratory approach in the municipality of Silang. The researcher employed a purposive sampling technique to identify primary participants followed by a snowball sampling technique which allowed the researcher to identify 9 participants – 2 from urban barangays, 3 from the barangays adjacent to the poblacions, and 4 from rural barangays. Thematic analysis was employed. This study found that public open spaces remain as a significant component in the lives of residents in Silang, Cavite. More so, the primary qualities of public open spaces that facilitates their well-being and healthy social relations are sanitation, availability of recreational activities, and accessibility. In general, residents believe that there should be more public open spaces that are of good quality and functional for all members of the community.