TECH4GOOD
One sign that the Christmas holiday season has started is the influx of migrant mendicants in cities all over the country. They are the face of the continuing saga of street dwellers, a situation that has been looking for a solution for the longest time. When you drive around the city right after dusk, you will not fail to notice these people beginning to settle down on sidewalks. Some are in karitons with a dog in tow.
The situation of street dwellers is a global concern and a glaring reminder of urban poverty. More than half of the estimated 4.5 homeless individuals scattered around the country are in Metro Manila. In recent years, nomadic Badjaos have started to come to urban cities looking for subsistence opportunities, only to find themselves facing harsher living conditions. Often referred to as “sea gypsies,” they are an indigenous group originally from the coastal regions of western Mindanao. Historically, they were sea dwellers, relying on fishing and marine resources for their livelihood. Their migration to urban areas has led to significant changes in their way of life, presenting challenges that threaten their cultural identity and survival.
These metropolitan street dwellers are a visible reminder of our societies’ social and economic disparities. Often referred to as the homeless, they live in precarious conditions, face numerous challenges daily, and are in a constant state of vulnerability. Many find temporary shelter in parks, sidewalks, under bridges, or makeshift settlements. These locations offer little protection from the elements, making them susceptible to harsh weather conditions, health issues, and violence.
Access to basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation facilities, and healthcare is often limited. They rely on public restrooms, charitable organizations, and occasional assistance from the community and individuals for their daily needs. The lack of proper nutrition and hygiene exacerbates health problems, making street dwellers more prone to illnesses and infections. Understanding the factors that lead to homelessness, their living conditions, and potential solutions is crucial to addressing this complex issue.
The reasons for homelessness are multifaceted and interlinked, varying from individual to individual. In metropolitan cities, where living costs are exorbitant, even a slight dip in income can lead to eviction and homelessness. Mental health issues and substance abuse disorders can significantly impact an individual's ability to maintain stable housing. Without adequate support and treatment, these conditions can spiral into homelessness.
Family issues such as domestic violence, family breakdowns, and abuse can force individuals, particularly women and children, to flee their homes and live on the streets. The shortage of affordable housing options in urban areas is a significant contributor to homelessness. Even working individuals may find it impossible to afford rent in expensive metropolitan cities.
The livelihoods of street dwellers are often precarious and informal. Securing stable employment becomes a challenge without a permanent address or proper identification. Many street dwellers resort to begging for alms, which is a common way for them to earn money. Some scour street garbage dumps to collect recyclable materials that they can sell. However, this is often insufficient to meet their basic needs. Some engage in informal work such as street vending, collecting recyclable materials, or offering shoe shining and car washing services. While these jobs provide some income, they are irregular and low-paying. Street dwellers mostly rely on the support of charitable organizations such as Rotary Clubs, non-profits, and government aid programs.
Addressing homelessness requires a multifaceted and compassionate approach. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently launched its flagship anti-hunger program, “Walang Gutom” (No Hunger) Kitchen, which provides nutritious hot meals to impoverished individuals. The project also intends to examine their health and medical needs and provide access to hygiene facilities and even laundry services. It is a good start to address the need to care for the homeless, but DSWD will have to move fast to cover all those hungry and homeless individuals scattered across the country.
They should also be given priority as beneficiaries of the current Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) Program. The DSWD or even the local government should start by conducting a census of these individuals. Most street dwellers I have talked to say they are not even registered voters, which explains why most local officials fail to address their needs. The development of housing projects designed for the bottom of the pyramid, employment programs, mental health services, education, community support, and substance abuse treatment can help them address underlying issues and transition into stable living conditions.
Homelessness in metropolitan cities is a complex issue that requires a compassionate and comprehensive approach. Crafting appropriate policies and advocacy for systemic change is necessary to address the root causes of homelessness. We should face the issue head-on and move fast. Those street dwellers are the faces of what our country is. We should afford them the chance to live with dignity.
The author is an executive member of the National Innovation Council, lead convener of the Alliance of Technology Innovators for the Nation (ATIN), vice president of the Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines, and vice president of the UP System Information Technology Foundation. ([email protected])