CARREON, MARIA SOPHIA T

ARCH 595-R1

REACTION PAPER - TONDOTELLE

"I-Witness: Tondotelle" is a heartbreaking documentary that highlights the difficult

circumstances that a family in Manila's squatter area of Aroma must endure. As a stark
reminder of the gaping social and economic gaps that still exist in many parts of the world,
the film's portrayal of their daily lives is both eye-opening and profoundly sad. Utilizing
lightweight and extra supplies like plywood, scrap metal, and tarpaulin, they creatively built
their home on the second floor of a friend's home. Although small and unsteady, this
homemade residence symbolizes their will to protect and shelter their loved ones under the
direst circumstances.

The documentary's images of the cramped living situations are heartbreaking. The
family must deal with the difficulties of having little personal space and privacy because
they only have 2 square meters of living space. The fundamental essentials that mostly of us
take for granted are highlighted by the lack of a proper bathroom or toilet facility.
Additionally, the cramped sleeping quarters, where family members alternate naps,
demonstrate the sacrifices they make to get by.

Solution:

Safety, sustainability, and affordability should prioritize in architectural solutions for

those living in squatter areas of the Philippines who cannot afford to buy a quality house.
While considering the population' limited resources, these ideas strive to enhance living
conditions. For people who live in squatter areas, vertical housing is an appealing solution to
their housing problems. Vertical housing offers a practical alternative that can enhance
living circumstances in densely populated urban centers where land is expensive and scarce.

There are two major benefits to vertical housing. At first, it maximizes land usage by
stacking several dwelling units on a smaller amount of land, solving congestion in squatter
regions. This effective use of space enhances urban planning, eases traffic, and offers safe
housing. Second, compared to horizontal developments, vertical housing often results in
reduced construction costs per unit. This accessibility improves for low-income families
looking for suitable housing choices. In conclusion, vertical housing tackles the shortage of
land, enhances urban planning, and provides affordable options, especially for
underprivileged groups.

With necessary utilities, ventilation, natural light, and common areas, well-designed
vertical housing complexes improve living conditions and raise occupants' quality of life. This
stabilizes families and breaks the cycle of poverty. Finally, vertical housing addresses issues
of cost, squalid living conditions, and a lack of available land. It is a sustainable solution
because of the thoughtful architecture and urban planning that make it possible to
empower communities, advance urban development, and provide alternatives for safer,
respectable dwellings.