Magisterial Lectures | Mary Racelis, PhD - Demanding A Place in The City

Summary

This script discusses the transformation of the urban poor in Metro Manila, Philippines, from 'squatters' to 'informal settlers', highlighting their struggle for better lives and recognition of their rights. It emphasizes the role of NGOs and community organizing in empowering them and the government's recent efforts in providing secure and affordable housing. The speaker also addresses the need for a solidarity economy, inclusive development, and the importance of the urban poor's contributions to the city's economy, advocating for their right to the city's resources and services.

Takeaways

• 🏙️ The urban poor in Metro Manila, once called squatters, have evolved into informal settlers who are striving for better lives and recognition of their rights.
• 📈 Over time, these informal settlers have organized and connected with government bodies to secure safe, adequate, and affordable housing, reflecting their transition from being marginalized to being acknowledged by society.
• 👥 The urban poor are not just migrants but include multiple generations of city-born individuals who consider themselves urbanites, despite living in challenging conditions.
• 🌐 The community is diverse, with varying economic levels and ethnic backgrounds, and they have formed their own social strata and support networks within the urban environment.
• 🏡 Informal settlers often live in makeshift housing along riverbanks, under bridges, and in vacant lots, adapting creatively to the urban landscape.
• 🌱 Despite facing numerous challenges such as poor sanitation, lack of basic services, and the threat of eviction, these communities are resilient and continue to improve their living conditions.
• 💪 Women often lead these communities, demonstrating strong organizational skills and advocating for fair distribution of resources and participation in decision-making processes.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The aspirations of the urban poor are focused on securing tenure, access to services, and participation in community development, with an emphasis on education for the younger generation.
• 🤝 NGOs and civil society groups play a crucial role in empowering the urban poor, helping them form people's organizations and advocating for their rights and inclusion in the formal economy.
• 🌟 The urban poor contribute significantly to the city's economy through the informal sector, providing essential services and supporting the city's infrastructure.
• 🌱 The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the strengths of local communities, which have shown resilience and resourcefulness in the face of crisis, organizing to support each other and adapt to new challenges.

Q & A

What was the initial term used to describe the urban poor in Metro Manila and why was it changed?

The initial term used was 'squatters' because they moved into any available space to build their shanties. It was changed to 'informal settlers' over time as they became organized and started making demands of the authorities. NGOs and civil society groups felt 'squatters' was demeaning, as these people were striving for better lives.

How have the urban poor in Metro Manila been able to secure better housing conditions?

The urban poor have been able to secure better housing conditions through their strong efforts and organization. They have connected with the government, both national and local, to provide decent homes. This has resulted in construction of safe, adequate, and affordable housing in areas where they have organized.

What role have NGOs and faith-based groups played in empowering the urban poor?

NGOs and faith-based groups have played a significant role in empowering the urban poor by helping them form people's organizations. This has given them a sense of empowerment and rights, enabling them to be recognized with dignity and respect as citizens.

Why do the urban poor in Metro Manila prefer to stay in the city despite the challenges?

The urban poor prefer to stay in the city because they believe it offers better opportunities for a better life. Even though they face challenges such as relocation to distant areas with limited job opportunities, many return to the city due to the availability of jobs and resources.

How has the perception of the urban poor evolved over generations?

The perception has evolved from seeing them as migrants to recognizing them as urbanites. Many of the urban poor were born in the city, and now there are four generations of urban informal settlers who consider themselves city dwellers.

What are the common misconceptions about the urban poor in Metro Manila?

Common misconceptions include viewing them as law violators, drug addicts, and criminals. However, many are ordinary families striving for a better life, and the communities are often characterized by mutual support and resilience.

How have the urban poor adapted to living in various challenging environments in the city?

The urban poor have adapted by living in makeshift housing along riverbanks, under bridges, and in vacant lots. They use the walls of nearby buildings as their own walls and have found creative ways to live within the city's constraints.

What are the aspirations of the urban poor for their families and communities?

Their aspirations include secure tenure, decent and affordable housing, access to services like health clinics, schools, and places of worship, and participation in decision-making processes. They also focus on education for their children as a means to improve their socio-economic status.

How have women in the urban poor communities played a significant role?

Women have emerged as leaders in these communities, often because they are consistently present and knowledgeable about the community's needs. They are adept at organizing, negotiating with authorities, and ensuring fairness in the distribution of resources.

What is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the urban poor and how have they responded?

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the strengths of local communities, particularly the urban poor, who have had to find ways to deal with the crisis independently due to the slow response of the government. They have connected with NGOs, church groups, and even international donors to secure short-term help.

How do the urban poor contribute to the economy of Metro Manila?

The urban poor contribute significantly to the informal economy through various roles such as jeepney drivers, tricycle drivers, construction laborers, security guards, and street vendors. They support the city's economy by providing essential services and labor.