Technological Institute of the Philippines

P. Casal St. Quiapo, Manila

College of Engineering and Architecture

Architecture Department

Course: AR453-ARCH41S4 PLANNING 2

Course Description: Fundamentals of Urban Design and Community Architecture

A case study on _______PASAY CITY_______

I. Location
II. Description

History and Background

The name Pasay is said to have come from the weeping of a brokenhearted swain. Jose
and Paz were madly in love and determined to spend their lives together. But their love was
forbidden at the time. Jose's father was one of several tenants of Paz's father's property. Jose
was told not to get near Paz. Paz died because she couldn't bear the sorrow and misfortune any
longer.The elite attended her burial to mourn and pray. Jose stood back and constructed a
tunnel into the soil to be with her when everyone else went. When he was finally connected, he
burst out a piercing and agonized cry, "Paz-ay!" In grief and regret, Paz's parents named their
hacienda Paz-ay.

Pasay became the name of the entire town over time.Historians provide another
explanation for the city's name. The Pasay is supposed to have been dense with pasaw, an
exotic-smelling plant at the time. It was reported that a Spanish botanist named Antonio Pineda
went to a region called Basal near San Rafael to gather pasaw. There are numerous
possibilities for the name Pasay, but the most popular is that it was named after a princess of
the Namayan Kingdom, Dayang-dayang Pasay. The Namayan kingdom was a confederation of
barangays that peaked in 1175. It runs all the way from Manila Bay to Laguna de Bai.

Dayang-dayang Pasay inherited the areas that are today Culi-culi, Pasay, and Baclaran.
Sapa, now known as Santa Ana, was erected as the kingdom's royal capital.The natives
brought their wares to Namayan, the capital. Trading was thriving from the twelfth through the
fourteenth centuries. Merchants from China, the Moluccas, Java, Borneo, Sumatra, India, Siam,
and Cambodia arrived to trade with the indigenous people.

The map of territory once said to be under the rule of

Namayan, which includes Pasay, in modern Metro Manila

The old Pasig Town proper. Pasig, Rizal. Circa 1900

 Pasay covers a total land area of 18.64 square kilometers (7.20 sq mi), making it the
third smallest political subdivision in the National Capital Region and fourth in the whole country.
It borders City of Manila to the north, Parañaque to the south, Makati and Taguig to the
northeast, and Manila Bay to the west. The city can be divided into three distinct areas: the city's
urban area with an area of 5.505 square kilometers (2.125 sq mi); the Civil Aeronautics
Administration (CAA) complex, which includes Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and the
Villamor Airbase, with an area of 9.5 square kilometers (3.7 sq mi); and the reclaimed land from
Manila Bay with an area of 4.00 square kilometers (1.54 sq mi).

Pasay is composed of seven districts, subdivided into 20 zones, with a total of 201
barangays. The barangays do not have names but are only designated with sequential
numbers. The largest zone, with an area of 5.10 square kilometers (1.97 sq mi), is Zone 19,
which covers barangays 178 and 191. The smallest zone with an area of 10 hectares (25 acres)
is Zone 1, covering Barangays 1 to 3 and 14 to 17.

Zones and Barangays of Pasay

Characteristics of Pasay as an Urban area:

1.) Population Density- Pasay has a high population density, with a significant number of
people crammed into a relatively small geographic region. Closely spaced structures,
residential complexes, and commercial facilities are common characteristics.

2.) Infrastructure and Development- Infrastructure development in urban areas is broad and
includes well-built roads, bridges, public transportation systems (such buses, trains, and
subways), and utilities like power, water supply, and sewage systems. Being a part of Metro
Manila in the Philippines, Pasay gains access to this infrastructure.
3.) Economic Activities- Urban locations function as economic activity hubs, providing a diverse
range of work opportunities in industries such as banking, commerce, technology,
entertainment, and others. Pasay is home to a diverse range of enterprises, including
shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, all of which contribute to the
city's urban feel.

4.) Cultural and Social Diversity- Cities attract people from a wide range of cultural, social, and
economic backgrounds. This diversity may be seen in Pasay and other places through the
languages used, the meals available, and the cultural activities that are hosted there.

5.) Higher Education and Institutions- Numerous educational institutions, such as universities,
colleges, and research centers, are frequently located in urban areas. These organizations
bring in students and scholars from all over the world and contribute to the intellectual vitality
of the region.

6.) Civic Services- Healthcare facilities, police, and fire stations, public libraries, and community
centers are all available in urban settings. These services meet the demands of the region's
growing population.

7.) Entertainment and Recreation- They are well-known for their numerous entertainment
alternatives, which include theaters, cinemas, sports facilities, parks, and recreational
centers. For example, Pasay is a popular location for leisure activities since it has cultural
and entertainment complexes.

8.) Mix of Land Uses- Residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional zones are common
in urban settings, as are a variety of other land uses. Long commutes are less necessary
thanks to this variety of land uses that allows for optimal land utilization.

9.) Architectural Variety- The variety of architectural styles found in pasay areas reflects the
historical evolution and cultural influences of the place. Being a part of Metro Manila, Pasay
displays a fusion of conventional and contemporary architectural styles.

As a result of the decades-long, fast urbanization of Metropolitan Manila, Pasay City (founded in
1863) has evolved into a vital local corridor connecting significant urban areas. Its southwestern
portion enables a connection between the northern metropolis of Manila and the southern
nearby Cavite towns as well as cities and municipalities like Paranaque and Las Pinas. Similar
to how its southeast links the cities of Paranaque, Muntinlupa, and Laguna with Manila, Makati,
Mandaluyong, and Quezon City. Or to put it another way, Pasay City promotes trade amongst
the local government units (LGUs) in the area.

Pasay City's strategic location is complemented by its relatively flat terrain, which can support a
sizable population and robust commercial activity. Another feature that could work in its favor is
the reclamation of its western coastline. In fact, a significant chunk of the city is already built on
reclaimed land, where well-known landmarks and federal buildings are now located.

The bustling business district of Pasay City, which currently occupies more than 400,000 square
meters, might expand by three times its current size if the group led by entrepreneur Henry Sy
had its way. It intends to recapture an extra 300 hectares of Manila Bay in order to expand
MOA. The SM group was able to get one step closer to that objective by signing a joint venture
(JV) agreement with the Pasay municipal government.

Pasay City, as a whole, possesses everything that is necessary to preserve its economic
engine. It has highly educated and competent workers, as well as management; adequate
electricity and water supply; great access given by light rail transit systems, excellent
communication facilities, road networks, and airports; and some land for expansion. The city
must be maintained, much like a corporate enterprise. It has taken the risk of competing for
investment in order to produce tax revenues, build livelihoods, and give lawful inhabitants jobs.
The city is now strategically competitive with its forward-thinking surrounding LGUs because to
its strategically positioned recovered assets along its western coastline.

In Summary: As a result of its high population density, vast infrastructure, economic activity,
cultural diversity, educational institutions, municipal services, entertainment alternatives, mix of
land uses, and architectural variety, Pasay is classified as an urban area. Together, these traits
produce a vibrant and busy urban atmosphere.

Status of Urban Planning and Urban Design of Pasay

Due to a variety of hotels, casinos, restaurants, retail centers, and world-class convention
halls, Pasay City plays a significant role in Metro Manila's tourism and event industries. The
administration remains strong in its commitment to deliver top-notch public service for the
city's ongoing advancement toward an enabling environment for progressive and
empowered people amid modernization and infrastructure development.

Apart from the fact that Pasay is a densely populated area of Metro Manila, the city's urban
planning has been effective owing to the effectiveness of the infrastructure for users.
However, in terms of urban design, one of the problems and chaotic situations brought on
by intertwined movements of public transportation and pedestrians alone in some public
spaces was rationalized because of the enormous economic cost and primarily because of
the loss of resources. On the other hand, due to a shortage of facilities where people can
dwell, there are informal settlers in this populated area. Some found it inconvenient because
they were struggling with unemployment, poverty, and a lack of resources. Some individuals
have to work outside of the city because they can't find a job within the city, and this has a
major impact on urban design.

DETAILED MAP OF PASAY

To maintain orderly growth, resolve issues over property use, and foster community well-being,
local government authorities establish zoning restrictions. They determine the developments in
various urban areas, including the residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational zones.
Residential zones, commercial zones, industrial zones, mixed-use zones, open spaces, special
use zones like water recreation districts, and historical or cultural zones are all common zoning
classifications in Pasay City. These regulations are based on a city's comprehensive land use
plan and ordinances, which are developed based on community input, urban planning
principles, and local government policies.

What makes Pasay City an Urban Area

Pasay, officially known as the City of Pasay, holds the status of a first-class highly
urbanized city within the National Capital Region of the Philippines. As indicated by the 2020
census data, its population amounts to 440,656 individuals. Encompassing an area of 13.97
square kilometers or 5.39 square miles, this area constitutes about 3.27% of the overall
population of the National Capital Region, housing 201 barangays. The city's proximity just
south of Manila contributed to its swift urbanization during the era of American colonization.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) orchestrated a comprehensive assessment

of the competitive standings of various cities and municipalities across the Philippines,
focusing on four pillars: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure, and
Resiliency. This evaluation culminated in an overall competitiveness ranking. Notably, on
December 16, 2020, among the highly urbanized cities, Pasay City achieved the following
recognitions: 1st Place in Economic Dynamism, 3rd Place in Overall Competitiveness, and 3rd
Place in Infrastructure.

The City of Pasay continued to implement programs consistent with its vision of being "A
Premier City and World-Class Travel Destination" - thriving with liveable neighborhoods, a
progressive economy, an empowered community, modern infrastructure, and a sustainable
environment – all managed through a transparent and efficient governance system. It is
situated within Metro Manila, Philippines, thrives as a bustling and vibrant urban center. It
epitomizes the essence of modernity, showcasing a diverse array of structures that shape its
urban identity. Some of the structures and factors that define Pasay City's urban landscape
include:

Skyscrapers and High-Rise Buildings

Notable structures like Aseana One and Two, contemporary office complexes nestled in the
Aseana Business Park, and various residential towers comprising condominiums and
apartments across the city.

Commercial Centers and Malls

The world-renowned SM Mall of Asia, a colossal shopping haven that houses a vast array of
retail, dining, and entertainment options, and the sophisticated S Maison, an upscale shopping
destination adjacent to SM Mall of Asia, renowned for its luxury brands and global culinary
offerings.

Cultural Landmarks
The revered Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), a dedicated complex that celebrates
Filipino arts and culture through its theaters, galleries, and performance spaces, and the iconic
Tanghalang Pambansa, the main theater within CCP, distinguished for hosting a myriad of
cultural events.

Hotels and Resorts

The prestigious Conrad Manila, renowned for its luxurious design and panoramic views of
Manila Bay, and the integrated Resorts World Manila, a comprehensive resort complex
comprising hotels, a casino, shopping outlets, and an array of entertainment venues.

Transportation Hubs
The pivotal Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), a principal international gateway of the
Philippines encompassing multiple terminals serving both domestic and international flights, and
the efficient LRT Line 1, a Light Rail Transit system that offers convenient transportation options
for residents and visitors.

Entertainment Complexes
Entertainment City, a sprawling gaming and entertainment enclave featuring casinos, hotels,
theaters, and diverse entertainment facilities.

Historical Structures
The Shrine of Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life (Mall of Asia Arena), a distinctive modern
church and event venue celebrated for its unique architectural design, and the Pasay City Hall,
the administrative core of the local government often characterized by a blend of historical and
contemporary architecture.

Educational Institutions
Arellano University Pasay, an esteemed educational establishment offering a wide range of
academic programs.

Residential Communities
The city hosts diverse residential neighborhoods and subdivisions catering to varying income
levels and lifestyles, contributing to its multifaceted character.

Recreational Spaces
Prominent locations like the Manila Baywalk, a scenic waterfront promenade along Manila Bay,
and the CCP Complex Open Grounds, a public venue hosting outdoor events, festivals, and
gatherings.
Pasay is indeed living up to its name as the Gateway to the Philippines, hosting foreigners and
locals alike. Offering international cuisine, cultural artifacts, and great business opportunities,
Pasay City continues to maintain its dynamism and diversity.

III. Community Evaluation No. 1 - The Value of Urban Design

Local Character

For communities and people, local culture gives them a sense of identity. This identity
promotes shared beliefs, customs, and values, all of which are essential for identifying
strategies for enhancing wellbeing. The development of a sense of community and solidarity is
aided by culture. There are several ways to include culture in community and economic
development plans. The main emphasis might be culture. Tourism and other initiatives that
heavily emphasize the promotion, preservation, or improvement of local or regional cultures
would be included.

To understand how culture may affect new or ongoing development projects (resource
management, environmental protection), that issue must be addressed. Programs that
communities are prepared to accept and embrace in the face of growth are likely to be heavily
influenced by cultural variables. Therefore, it is crucial that issues and potential solutions be
stated in a way that respects the local culture.

● attract high-tech companies and highly qualified people

● assist with the branding and promotion of cities and areas
● the potential to increase the value of homes
● bolster residents' sense of identity and motivate them to actively participate in
neighborhood management
● provide them alternatives between very different locations whose characteristics
they appreciate
● promote the prudent use of non-renewable resources and resource conservation
Connectivity

All city individuals, tourists, and enterprises have access to mobility, accessibility, and
connection through public transit. This indicates that it offers simple access to locations like
marketplaces, grocery shops, workplaces, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and
entertainment venues. Cities require effective public transportation networks to maintain the
happiness and health of their residents. They also require them for future economic expansion.
Cities must have the appropriate infrastructure, maintenance, and safety procedures in place in
order to provide effective public transit.

High-quality and well-connected roads are part of a robust transportation infrastructure that
increases the mobility of people by reducing travel costs and times, improves road safety,
reduces the amount of greenhouse gases released by reducing the amount of time spent on
roads, and over time may help contribute to agglomeration through a balance of vertical and
horizontal. Expanding sustainable transportation alternatives is an effective approach for nations
to support social inclusion and human development, especially in low-income or vulnerable
populations.

● Transit Reduces Road Congestion

● Freedom and Mobility Amplified by Public Transit
● Household Expenses Reduced by Using Public Transit
● Public Transit is a Safe and Equitable Transportation Mode
● Reduces the amount of greenhouse gases released
Density

Pasay City was among the most congested localities in NCR with a population density of
25,533 in 2000. This population density was far greater than the NCR’s 15,617 density. The city
has 201 barangays which resemble those of the old cities like Manila and Kalookan. The
preliminary results of the 2000 Census puts the population of Pasay City at 363,000, which
represents a reduction of about 2.34% from its 1995 population. Since the 1903 census,
Pasay’s population growth had been greater than the rest of Metro Manila only in the years
1918 to 1948.

The decelerating trend implied other areas in Metro Manila became more attractive as
settlement areas than Pasay City (e.g., Makati, Paranaque). The actual reduction implied it has
become an out-migration area. Among the 17 localities in the National Capital Region (NCR),
Pasay City ranked 12th in population size, 11th in number of households, 13th in average
household size (which is less than NCR’s 4.62), 16th in annual growth and 4th in population
density (more than the density of NCR).

Adaptability

If the intended (and adapted) Boulevard 2000 Project developments continue to materialize
2-54 If the intended (and adapted) Boulevard 2000 Project developments continue to
materialize over the next 10 - 30 years, Pasay City must be ready for its long-term effects
(positive initially but which could turn out to be negative in the end if not properly planned for,
implemented, managed and monitored). Since the Boulevard 2000 Project was planned,
implemented and possibly operated relatively independent of Pasay City, the LGU must ity, the
LGU must exercise all of its available exercise all of its available options under R.A. No. 7160 to
exert partial or joint/ collaborative administrative control over the portions of the Boulevard 2000
Project, i.e., the NCRA 1 composed of the CC-FCA and CBP I(A) and NCRA 2 composed of up
to three (3) or more additional reclamation islands, to determine the pace and quality of
determine the pace and quality of the developments the developments intended or proposed for
said area intended or proposed for said areas.

High Value Areas

High-valued urban areas refer to regions within a city that command a quality and active
development in terms of urban and economic value. Here's a general description:

1. Prime Location - High-valued urban areas are typically situated in the heart of a city or in
close proximity to key business districts, transportation hubs, and cultural or recreational
amenities.
2. Luxury and Premium Properties - These areas often feature luxury condominiums,
penthouses, townhouses, or commercial spaces with high-end finishes, modern amenities, and
top-notch services.

3. Strong Real Estate Market - High-valued urban areas have a robust and competitive real
estate market. Prices tend to be consistently high, and demand is often driven by a combination
of location, amenities, and prestige.

4. Well-Developed Infrastructure - High-valued urban areas boast well-maintained streets,

advanced public transportation systems, reliable utilities, and access to essential services like
schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and cultural institutions.
5. Cultural and Recreational Amenities - These areas may be close to theaters, museums,
parks, high-end shopping districts, fine dining restaurants, and entertainment venues, providing
a rich cultural and recreational experience.

6.Prestigious Neighborhoods - High-valued urban areas often house affluent residents,

celebrities, business leaders, and high-profile individuals, contributing to the area's reputation
and exclusivity.

7. Innovation and Business Hubs - Some high-valued urban areas are also home to innovation
and business districts, hosting major corporations, startups, research institutions, and
technology hubs.

8. Architectural Significance - Urban areas with high real estate value may showcase
architectural landmarks, contemporary high-rises, historic buildings, or a blend of both, adding
to the area's visual appeal.

9. Strong Economic Activity - These areas typically have a high level of economic activity, with a
concentration of businesses, headquarters, financial institutions, and job opportunities.

10. Access to Green Spaces - Some high-valued urban areas incorporate parks, greenways, or
waterfront access, providing residents with a respite from the urban environment.

One of the well known high-valued area in Pasay City City is the Barangay 76 for being home of
the SM Mall of Asia, the third largest mall in the Philippines, Aseana City, an integrated mixed
use central business district serving the Bay Area, Entertainment City with Las Vegas-style
casinos, amusement parks, theaters, office building, hotels, residential buildings and resorts.
The project is under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) owned by
the Philippine government. Entertainment City is Asia's newest gaming and entertainment
complex that PAGCOR proposed on 8 km2 (3.1 sq mi) of land on the reclamation area of Manila
Bay.
Lower Value Areas

Informally occupied areas are home to almost a billion people. The magnitude and depth
of poverty are typically underestimated by governments and international organizations, which
contributes to the development of ineffective policies, according to our partners in Asia, who
have an understanding of the issue. The absence of a voice for low-income urban residents and
their lack of power inside governments and assistance organizations make this situation worse.

We are in what is frequently referred to as the "urban century" in which the majority of
the global economy and people are now concentrated in urban areas. The population of the
globe is continuing to rise, with metropolitan regions in low- and middle-income countries seeing
the majority of the expansion.

Around a billion urban dwellers live in informal settlements, most of which are affected by:

● Poor quality,
● overcrowded housing Risk of forceful eviction Lack of safe,
● readily available,
● water supplies Poor provision for sanitation,
● drainage and solid waste collection Lack of access to healthcare,
● emergency services and policing Difficulty accessing government schools,
● and Locations at high risk of disasters and with risk levels increasing because of climate
change.

Maricaban, Pasay City

 One of the poor urban part in Pasay City is the Maricaban Area. With the onset of the
rainy and typhoon season, the city government of Pasay continues to undertake pre-emptive
evacuation of all informal settler families (ISFs) living along the Maricaban Creek, identified as a
danger zone, with the goal of clearing all remaining houses and structures in the area.

III. Appendices

(insert photos of group sessions here)

Reference/s:

https://www.britannica.com/place/Pasay

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pasay-transformation-city-bro-clifford-sorita
https://anchorland.com.ph/pasay-city-living-is-it-for-you/
https://www.coa.gov.ph/download/5455/cities/72265/pasay-city-executive-summary-2021.pdf?__
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FA

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CCFile (pasay.gov.ph)