SOAR visits Parola, Tondo

May 6, 2024

Tondo, Manila - On May 5, 2024, SOAR conducted an initial site visit to Parola, Tondo, to assess the current conditions of the informal settlements. Known for its expertise in hospital design, transport planning, and various other architectural projects, SOAR is now venturing into urban rehabilitation efforts, seeking to address the pressing concerns of one of Metro Manila’s most vulnerable communities.

The Parola area is home to thousands of informal settlers, and the challenges they face are significant. SOAR's visit revealed several critical issues that need urgent attention, particularly in their utilities and basic infrastructure.

Due to the congested nature of the settlement and the prevalence of makeshift housing materials, Parola is at high risk for fires. The lack of proper infrastructure for fire prevention and control further exacerbates this issue. In addition to this, the absence of reliable water and electricity services further hinders the quality of life in the area. Many residents rely on illegal connections, which are not only unsafe but also unsustainable. With limited access to basic sanitation facilities, the community struggles with waste management, leading to unsanitary conditions that pose a public health risk.

SOAR, recognizing the severity of these issues, has partnered with renowned architects and urban planners Riken Yamamoto and WTA Architecture and Design Studio to propose a comprehensive fieldwork project aimed at rehabilitating Parola. This collaboration aims to develop sustainable, long-term solutions that will address these challenges and improve the overall living conditions in the community.