The Level of Place Attachment in Selected Areas in Malate District Based on Elements of City Image

Abstract

Malate is one of the oldest geographical districts of the City of Manila, it has been an enclave of rich Spanish Meztizos, Americans and Filipinos alike from its early settlement as an expansion of residential – resort seaside living outside Intramuros during the Spanish Era. It grew in a bustling prime residential estate before the war began where it created the ideal community rich with socio-cultural experience, commerce, and trade, a place for educational excellence, and ecclesiastical centers during the American Colonial Era. Nowadays, the district has lost its sense of place and lack of vibrancy. This study is an attempt to solicit the personal experiences of residents in Malate about the Sense of Place in the area, how the district thrives as an urban community with a deep historical root as an agricultural barrio that gradually develops into elite housing of the town socialites and at the end of the turn of the century is now a mixed cultural and diverse community. This study also wants to know how residents can have a meaningful stay in the area where they can certain level of Place Attachment. The study also wants to know residents' perception of Urban Design and how it affects every life, applying a qualitative research method to understand deeper their experience and story. The study aims to address the respondent's opinions and experiences to improve urban design in their community, and further improve the communities cultural heritage