Lipat Bahay, Panibagong Buhay: A Phenomenological Study on the Experiences and Challenges of Informal Settlers Turned Tenants in Basecommunity and Tondominium, Manila

Abstract

The Philippines' housing crisis has worsened, especially in urban areas. Manila, the capital city, is faced with extreme congestion as it battles to accommodate its rising population seeking job opportunities, quality education, and government services. As a result, informal settlements are primarily concentrated in this area. This study delves into the lived experiences and challenges of tenants in Basecommunity and Tondominium who were formerly residents of informal settlements. It investigates the disparities in their living situations before and after moving into in-city housing provided by the Manila Local Government Unit (LGU). The study's objectives are: (1) Describe the differences between tenants' past living conditions in informal settlements and their current living conditions in Manila LGU's in-city housing, (2) Identify how structural, financial, health, and other significant factors influence the living conditions of tenants within Basecommunity and Tondominium, (3) Examine how the Manila LGU addresses the lack of proper housing for other Manila citizens living in informal settlements, and (4) Analyze how the Manila LGU addresses the challenges in Basecommunity and Tondominium. Using purposive sampling, the researchers selected 17 participants: seven tenants each from Basecommunity and Tondominium, and three key informants from the Manila Urban Settlements Office (MUSO). The findings were categorized into three main themes: (1) Hamon at Danas ng Panibagong Buhay, (2) Hamon sa Tibay-Kalusugan, and (3) Lingkod-Tugon ng Pamahalaang Maynila. Under the main theme (1) Hamon at Danas ng Panibagong Buhay are sub-themes : a) structural challenges (Tindig-Buhay), (b) financial difficulties (Tustos-Buhay), (c) psychological and physical health struggles (Pait-Laban-Buhay), (d) cultural adaptation issues (Angkop-Buhay), (e) social integration concerns (Ugnay-Buhay), and (f) livelihood challenges (Hanapbuhay). The findings show that residents continue to encounter several obstacles while moving into secure socialized housing. The first theme focused on full descriptions of tenants' daily challenges. The second theme highlighted their health priorities amidst the financial burdens of living in the Manila City Socialized Housing, and the third theme demonstrated the LGU's sympathetic but limited responses to these challenges. Despite MUSO's initiatives, such as town hall meetings to address tenant issues, political barriers, such as the 2025 midterm elections, impede long-term progress. In conclusion, while the move to socialized housing has reduced some concerns, residents continue to face significant challenges. The researchers advocate revising Manila City Ordinance 8730 to ease tenants' challenges and improve policy implementation in order to better benefit Manila's housing program beneficiaries.