The Formation of Task Force Tawhanong Pagpuyo
A group of Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) in Cebu City united to create an alliance known as Task Force Tawhanong Pagpuyo (TFT). This alliance aimed to address the increasing number of evictions and home demolitions affecting urban poor communities. The issue stemmed from the rapid onset of globalization and the government’s development framework, which often disregarded the housing rights of the urban poor.
In Cebu City, more than 70% of the population is considered urban poor. Many residents face unemployment or underemployment, lack land or secure tenure, and live in homes made of light, improvised materials. Despite these difficult living conditions, the government was demolishing homes without arranging relocation sites, leaving families without shelter.
Community Involvement and the Development Process
Government programs were frequently designed without consulting or involving the communities they impacted. When implemented, these programs displaced urban poor residents from their homes. By involving community members and urban poor leaders in the planning process, the government could have enabled them to voice their concerns and influence policies. This collaboration not only addresses immediate housing rights but also empowers local leaders. Through active participation, these leaders gain experience in governance, allowing them to hold government officials accountable and advocate for community needs.
Key steps in building a community development plan included creating local development councils and special bodies to involve residents in planning, monitoring, implementing, and evaluating projects. TFT also organized women to participate in local governance and press Local Government Units (LGUs) to enforce gender and development programs as required by law. Additionally, the establishment of a Local Housing Board helped secure the right to housing for urban poor communities.
The Impact of Advocacy and Education on Housing Rights
TFT gathered urban poor leaders through conferences, where they identified specific issues and developed case studies to support their claims. They conducted research and presented these findings to local government units and shelter agencies. An education and information campaign reached out to various urban poor communities and even judges responsible for issuing eviction orders. This campaign informed them about the realities of forced evictions and the need for just policies.
Due to persistent advocacy efforts, a Local Housing Board was established with representatives from the urban poor sector and NGOs. This board prepared a comprehensive shelter plan for Cebu City, leading to significant improvements. Basic services were provided to urban poor communities, demolitions and evictions on public land were minimized, and relocation sites were arranged for those affected. Now, judges consult with the Local Housing Board before issuing eviction orders, ensuring better compliance with housing regulations.
Building Awareness and Empowering Marginalized Communities
Human rights violations are common in communities where people lack awareness of their rights. Marginalized sectors, such as the urban poor, often struggle to access justice or participate meaningfully in governance. TFT emphasizes the importance of community participation, training, and empowering local leaders. By focusing on these efforts, TFT aims to build a sustainable community organizing process that protects housing rights and fosters meaningful civic engagement.
