NIGHT OWL
When I entered the London School of Economics (LSE) Cities program, I had just stepped away from nearly eight years in government, where my focus was often on addressing immediate urban challenges. Stepping into the academic world allowed me to look at cities across the Philippines from a fresh, neutral perspective. It gave me the space to question: What more could we do to make cities truly livable for everyone, especially the most vulnerable populations? Through LSE Cities, I was introduced to the concept of the “15-minute city,” a vision where every resident can access essential services—schools, clinics, parks, workplaces—within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. It may sound ambitious, but at its core, this model represents a shift toward cities designed to be accessible and empowering for all, from the youngest child to the oldest adult.
Reimagining Philippine cities through the 15-minute city framework pushed me to think about the needs of our most vulnerable residents: children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and indigenous communities. For instance, children should be able to play safely outside, but in many of our cities, accessible green spaces are scarce, and safety concerns often prevent kids from enjoying the outdoors freely. Creating more parks and play areas, particularly within residential neighborhoods, would provide children with essential spaces for recreation, creativity, and socialization. This is not just about physical infrastructure—it’s about supporting children’s right to a childhood where play, exploration, and connection are easy and safe.
For persons with disabilities, the challenges of navigating urban environments are often compounded by inaccessible infrastructure. Many sidewalks lack ramps, public transit systems are rarely fully accessible, and even public buildings sometimes lack basic accommodations. A 15-minute city approach would emphasize the importance of accessible design in every aspect of urban planning. This includes ramps, elevators, wide sidewalks, and public transport systems designed for ease of use. With accessible public spaces, persons with disabilities would gain the freedom to move confidently and independently, empowering them to participate more fully in community life.
The needs of the elderly are also critical in this vision. Many seniors face mobility challenges and social isolation due to inadequate urban design that doesn’t account for their needs. A city that provides safe pedestrian zones, shaded walkways, and benches for resting would allow elderly residents to participate actively in their communities, reducing isolation and enhancing their quality of life. Additionally, easily accessible health facilities within neighborhoods would ensure seniors have the medical support they need close to home.
Indigenous communities also deserve spaces that celebrate and respect their cultural identities. Urban migration has brought many indigenous individuals into cities, but they often find that these environments lack spaces where their heritage is honored. Dedicated public areas for cultural expression and gathering would acknowledge their contributions and provide a sense of belonging, reinforcing the cultural richness of our cities.
Ultimately, the 15-minute city concept highlights that our urban spaces should not merely be functional but foster a sense of joy, dignity, and safety for all. It’s about more than ticking boxes for accessibility; it’s about creating cities where children can play safely, where persons with disabilities can navigate easily, where the elderly feel valued, and where indigenous identities are respected. The LSE Cities program taught me that every decision in urban planning has a cascading effect on people’s lives, especially those most vulnerable.
This vision of Philippine cities centers on the belief that inclusive urban design uplifts entire communities. Imagine a Philippines where every city prioritizes parks where children can roam safely, transportation systems that allow persons with disabilities to move freely, and public spaces where the elderly and indigenous communities can find connection and support. It’s a vision that challenges us to rethink how we design cities—not just as places to live, but as environments that enable every resident to thrive.
LSE Cities transformed my approach, helping me see that cities are not just collections of buildings and roads; they are ecosystems of opportunity, connection, and resilience. Philippine cities can become more than just economic hubs; they can evolve into places where each individual, from the youngest to the oldest, can live fully, feel safe, and experience a profound sense of belonging.