Urban Congestion in the Philippines

Urban Congestion and Limited Space in the Philippines

• The Philippines is among Asia's fastest-growing urban centers, with urban population rising from 45% in 2010 to 54% in 2020.
• Major congestion occurs in the Greater Manila Area, raising concerns about housing, infrastructure, and mobility.
• The country frequently faces natural disasters, contributing to challenges in urban management, highlighted in the Global Risk Index 2022.

Trends in Urbanization

• Unchecked urbanization degrades living conditions, escalates environmental issues, and increases greenhouse gas emissions.
• By 2022, a housing demand of 6.5 million units was identified, potentially skyrocketing to 22 million by 2040.
• Approximately 3.7 million informal settlers live in makeshift homes, often in flood-prone or fire-risk areas, complicating urban planning.
• Poor waste management leads to significant plastic pollution in oceans, adding to urban challenges.
• High population density strains public transport, leading to longer commutes and lower overall productivity.

Urban Planning Challenges

• Urban congestion is exacerbated by rapid urban growth without corresponding infrastructure development across ASEAN nations.
• In the Greater Manila Area, a lack of housing and inadequate public services leads to environmental degradation and frequent flooding.
• The Housing and Urban Development Sector Plan aims for better housing and urban integration over a span of 20 years.
• The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is responsible for establishing regulations for environmental management and pollution control.

Contributors to Urban Issues

• Rapid urbanization occurs without adequate infrastructure, resulting in congested cities.
• Poor urban planning leads to inefficient land use and insufficient space for essential services and public amenities.
• Informal settlements contribute to overcrowding and misallocation of space.
• Urban Development and Housing Framework seeks sustainable city planning, alongside the Build, Build, Build (BBB) program to improve infrastructure and reduce congestion.

Effects of Intervention Efforts

• Public transportation improvements are underway, including expansions of MRT and LRT systems to enhance commuter options.
• The mass transport system, however, faces challenges like overcrowding and maintenance issues.
• There is an urgent need for sustainable approaches and inter-agency coordination to improve zoning and land use practices.
• Balancing infrastructure development with environmental sustainability is crucial for long-term urban enhancements.

Recommendations for Improvement

• Promote active transportation by creating pedestrian-friendly roads and bicycle lanes to alleviate traffic and improve public health.
• Encourage decentralization by creating investment opportunities in provinces outside the Greater Manila Area to distribute population density.
• Implement car-free days or zones to reduce traffic congestion while promoting public and active transportation options.