Philippines: Flagship Initiative Knowledge Product: Community Organization in Tacloban City

Introduction

This case analysis explores different living conditions and levels of community involvement between residents of permanent shelters in Tacloban City. The devastating impact of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013 necessitated urgent shelter and permanent housing solutions for the displaced population, leading to the development of distinct approaches to resettlement and community rebuilding based on the proverbial Filipino concept of bayanihan (communal unity, helping each other).

The community-led housing solutions

Pope Francis Village (PFV) represents a model of community-driven recovery post-Typhoon Yolanda. Initiated under this plan, PFV prioritized active community involvement in designing and constructing homes. The participatory process ensured shelters were tailored to residents' needs, incorporating sustainability and livability considerations. Affected people were directly involved in the construction process and the housing solutions developed emphasize durable materials, energy efficiency, culturally appropriate shelter solutions and green spaces. Notably, this community-led model acknowledges the importance of recognizing and appreciating residents' existing strengths and assets. By valuing and protecting what the community already possesses, the planning process becomes a catalyst for empowerment, instilling a sense of ownership, pride and responsibility. This permanent housing solution, where dwellers were also given land tenure, stands as a testament to the transformative power of an infrastructure project and the importance of leveraging social capital in the creation of a resilient and self-sustaining living environment. This participatory approach ensured that the shelters were not just physically sound and sustainable but also socially and culturally integrated into the community’s fabric.