Tigao: The Cornerstone of Home and Community Renewal

Introduction

Tigao (pronounced "tea-gow"), meaning "triangle" in Filipino, is an innovative housing model that is revolutionizing the way communities are developed and revitalized. Developed in the Philippines, Tigaon has gained international recognition for its effectiveness in addressing urban poverty and creating sustainable, inclusive neighborhoods.

What is Tigaon?

Tigaon is a triangular housing typology that offers a unique combination of affordability, flexibility, and community engagement. The design consists of three interlocking units arranged around a central courtyard. Each unit has its own private entrance and sanitary facilities, providing a sense of independence and dignity for residents.

Why Tigaon Matters

Addressing Urban Poverty: Tigaon is designed to provide affordable housing for low-income families living in informal settlements or overcrowded conditions. The modular design allows for rapid construction and flexibility, making it a cost-effective solution for mass housing.

Promoting Community Engagement: The central courtyard serves as a shared space for residents to socialize, play, and engage in community activities. This fosters a sense of belonging and encourages residents to take ownership of their neighborhood.

Benefits of Tigaon

Affordability: Compared to traditional housing models, Tigaon offers significant cost savings due to its efficient design and use of materials.

Flexibility: The modular design allows for customization to fit different family sizes, needs, and budgets.

Sustainability: Tigaon promotes environmental sustainability through efficient energy use, rainwater harvesting, and waste management systems.

Resilience: The triangular shape and interlocking units provide structural stability, making Tigaon resistant to earthquakes and other natural disasters.

Community Cohesion: The central courtyard fosters social interaction and community engagement, contributing to a sense of place and well-being.

Pros and Cons of Tigaon

Pros:

• Affordable housing for low-income families
• Rapid construction and flexibility
• Promotes community engagement and sustainability
• Resilient to natural disasters

Cons:

• May have limited space for larger families
• Requires careful planning and site selection
• Can be challenging to implement in areas with limited infrastructure

Effective Strategies

Engaging Community: Involving residents in the planning and implementation process ensures that the project aligns with community needs and values.

Flexibility in Design: Allowing for customization and flexibility in housing design empowers families to create homes that suit their unique requirements.

Green Building Practices: Incorporating sustainable materials and technologies into Tigaon units reduces environmental impact and creates healthier living environments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Lack of Community Ownership: Failing to engage residents can undermine community support and sustainability.

Inadequate Infrastructure: Building Tigaon in areas without proper infrastructure, such as water and sanitation, can compromise habitability and well-being.

Overcrowding: Building too many units on a given site can result in overcrowding and reduce the benefits of the courtyard space.

Statistical Highlights

• According to the World Bank, over 1 billion people live in informal settlements worldwide.
• In the Philippines alone, an estimated 4.5 million families live in informal housing.
• Tigaon has been implemented in over 120 communities in the Philippines and other countries, benefiting over 50,000 residents.
• A study by the University of the Philippines found that Tigaon residents experienced significant improvements in health, well-being, and social capital.

Case Studies

• Tigaon Village, San Jose del Monte, Philippines: A community of 1,000 Tigaon units transformed a former informal settlement into a vibrant and sustainable neighborhood.
• Tigaon Habitat, Indonesia: A partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Tigaon provided affordable housing to families affected by a natural disaster.
• Tigaon Eco-Village, Thailand: A model community that showcases the potential of Tigaon for promoting environmental sustainability and community resilience.

Conclusion

Tigaon has emerged as a powerful tool for addressing urban poverty, promoting community engagement, and creating sustainable, inclusive neighborhoods. By embracing affordability, flexibility, and community involvement, Tigaon empowers families to build better lives and transform their communities. As the demand for affordable housing continues to grow worldwide, Tigaon stands as a proven and impactful solution that can make a real difference.

Tables

Table 1: Tigaon Housing Costs

Table 2: Tigaon Benefits

Table 3: Tigaon Implementation Challenges