WHAT ARE THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR A LIVABLE SHELTER?

WHAT ARE THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR A LIVABLE SHELTER?

When we speak of a “livable shelter,” what do we really mean? Is it simply a roof that keeps the rain out? Or is it something more—a space that protects health, dignity, and safety?

International humanitarian standards such as those promoted by UN-Habitat say that a person needs at least 3.5 square meters of covered living space, adequate ventilation, access to safe water, and sanitation. That is the survival minimum. But survival is not the same as living with dignity.

Under our own National Building Code of the Philippines (PD 1096), the legal minimum for a socialized housing unit is about 18 to 22 square meters of floor area, usually on a 32 to 36 square meter lot for row houses. There must be proper exits, ventilation openings (generally at least 10% of floor area), and safe structural components.

But here is the uncomfortable reality: millions of our countrymen live in shanties that do not meet these standards. Must we demolish everything and start from scratch? Or is it possible to renovate what already exists?

I believe it is possible—and practical—to transform substandard dwellings into livable shelters without necessarily rebuilding them into brand-new houses.

Sometimes, the difference between “unlivable” and “livable” is not a new structure but a new roof. A watertight roofing sheet can prevent leaks that cause respiratory illness. Replacing bare earth floors with concrete or even raised recycled flooring can reduce soil-borne diseases. Installing a simple door with a lock restores security and dignity. A toilet bowl connected to proper waste disposal dramatically improves sanitation.

These are not mega-projects. They are modest, targeted interventions.

Why not replicate the spirit of Habitat for Humanity, but focus on renovation instead of new construction? Home repair programs are cheaper, faster, and less disruptive. They preserve community networks instead of relocating families far from jobs and schools.

We could mobilize housing cooperatives. Members could access small loans to buy materials. The Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) already offers home improvement loans. Perhaps what is lacking is not the program but the awareness and technical guidance to help low-income families qualify.

Local governments could partner with hardware stores for material donations—roofing sheets, hollow blocks, PVC pipes, faucets. Construction companies often have surplus inventory. Corporate social responsibility programs could be redirected toward micro-renovation grants instead of one-time charity events.

We should also explore alternative building materials. Some social enterprises now produce construction materials from recycled plastics. Companies such as Envirotech Waste Recycling Inc. have pioneered plastic-based lumber and bricks. These materials are often termite-resistant, moisture-resistant, and environmentally sustainable. Why not turn our plastic waste problem into a housing solution?

Of course, structural integrity must remain non-negotiable. A livable shelter must be weatherproof, wind-resistant, and safe. There must be access to potable water and sanitation. Ventilation must be sufficient to prevent indoor air pollution, especially where cooking is done.

We must also remember that livability is not only about walls and roofs. Security of tenure matters. A family living under constant threat of eviction can never truly feel secure, no matter how solid the structure.

So let me ask: instead of waiting for billions of pesos to build entirely new housing estates, why don’t we launch a nationwide “Repair and Upgrade” movement? A faucet here. A toilet there. A safer roof. A stronger floor.

Perhaps decent housing for the poor does not always begin with grand masterplans. Sometimes, it begins with a hammer, a bag of cement, and a community willing to help itself.

RAMON IKE V. SENERES

www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com senseneres.blogspot.com 09088877282/04-06-2027

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