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.
