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영어

Informal, marginal settlements in the developing world are not only increasing but worsening in the face of overpopulation, economic instability and unprecedented climate variance. In the Philippines, cities are powerful magnets for rural populations lacking local opportunities and who seek to achieve prosperity for their immediate and future generations. These centers of “possibilities” however fail to provide basic needs and services for increasing numbers of internal immigrants. UN Habitat reports that as of 2012, at least 63% of the 92 million Filipinos live in urban centers such as Metro Manila, or what is officially called the National Capital Region (NCR). An estimated 3.1 million of them lack secure land tenure and 2.7 are informal settlers living in slums (Karaos, Nicolas, Rabacal et al, 2012). The Philippines, like many island countries, suffers from land deficit; housing is not only difficult but economically unfeasible for the urban poor. Thus, the urban poor are unconsciously driven to areas otherwise unsuitable for housing. These danger zones are prone to flooding, seismic activity and landslides. Living in these areas exposes informal settlers to a vicious repeat cycle of destruction and loss of life. What is the source of a community’s resistance to relocate in the face of continuing risk? Some studies suggest that the place that we call home is not just a point in a geographical setting. Communities develop shared values and shared identity with place (Hewitt, K 1997). The Filipino government is currently on a crusade to address this problem by planning to relocate the individuals at high risk; they have certainly found opposition from the settlers. But, what are the specific factors that impede successful relocation? In this study we attempt to answer this question by looking at the cultural, social, economic, political factors and interactive dynamics that influence the way people decide where to live. The findings presented in this paper correspond to field work in the Rizal Province and its Municipality of San Mateo, more specifically concerning those living in Barangay Banaba. Hopefully the collection and analysis of such data could contribute towards a better understanding of the individual at risk, formulation of more effective disaster reduction strategies, and greater discussion of the situation and needs of these communities.