Baguio as a liveable community reiterated
Baguio as a liveable community and walkable neighbourhood through its proposed land uses, desirable density, barangay services, development plans, and sustainable development were reiterated in a barangay public consultation in Lucnab last August 30.
Speaking on behalf of the City Planning, Development and Sustainability Office (CPDSO) head Archt. Donna Rillera-Tabangin, City Planning Officer IV Georgina Ngolab explained the concept of Baguio as a liveable community.
Liveable communities are desirable places that promote physical and mental wellness; with communal hand washing stations, and with solid and liquid waste management implementation in consonance with the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law, Ngolab said.
There should be well-planned housing in the community, in compliance to the National Building Code and Accessibility Law. Included here are lot setbacks, building height limit, light and ventilation, with the required registration and permits.
Liveable communities’ boast of food sources in gardens with clean water supply, it was reported. It should be walkable, yet with mobility choices – having shared streets with bike lanes, vehicle carriageways, walkable green walks and sidewalks.
Ngolab reiterated the need for 3-meter alleys, 6-meter barangay roads and 10-meter city roads with well-planned planting strips or green areas for the community. Members of the community should be safe from crime and hazards in a mixed zoning area with essential businesses, Ngolab reported.
Public art and cultural activities are needed in the provided community open spaces, it was also detailed.
A liveable community is inclusive, where residents of all ages, with or without disabilities are served; and opportunities are present in the civic, economic and social aspect, Ngolab added.
However, there should be safeguards such as a required buffer zone of 7.96 meters especially for protected areas such as watersheds and forests. A 3-meter buffer is needed for water sources, creeks, streams and the city’s main river, Balili; while a 5-meter buffer zone is needed for natural landscapes.
According to Ngolab, the ideal land use ratio is the following: 70% of the land area is allotted for the existing built-up, while 30% is for open spaces.
Liveable communities should also have barangay halls, health centers, day care centers; senior citizen, women, and children centers, and satellite markets; moreover, barangay services, Gender and Development (GAD), and sports and recreation services should be readily available.
Widened roads, improved barangay multi-purpose halls, canals, covered courts and alternate roads are needed for a liveable community.
Other aspects for the city such as Sustainable Development and Urban character were also discussed by Ngolab. – JGF
