Republic of the Philippines

Palawan state university

Puerto Princesa City

College of Engineering and, Architecture and Technology

Research 300:

Community Structures

Diwa, Renzo M.

2020-4-0388

BSAR 4B

November 29, 2023

Community structures are the intricate social and institutional frameworks shaping interactions within

a community. Ranging from formal entities like local governments, schools, and religious

organizations to informal networks such as neighborhood associations and friendships, these

structures influence information sharing, decision-making, and collective activities.

Economic systems, including local businesses and marketplaces, contribute to financial well-being.

Social hierarchies, leadership roles, and communication channels shape influence and decision

distribution. Shared values, traditions, and cultural practices define community identity. The study of

these interconnected elements reveals insights into community resilience and adaptability to internal

and external changes, offering a comprehensive understanding of its social, economic, and cultural

dynamics.

1. Local Community Structures:

A. Residential Communities:

Residential communities are diverse, ranging from single-family homes to high-rise

apartment complexes. The structure is influenced by housing types, architectural styles, and

socioeconomic factors. Consideration of housing affordability, accessibility, and the mix of

residential types is crucial in urban planning.

Fig 1: Camella General Trias by Camella Homes at Tagaytay

Commercial areas encompass a variety of businesses, from local shops to large shopping

centers. The structure includes retail spaces, markets, and business districts. Zoning

regulations and mixed-use development strategies play a role in shaping the commercial

landscape.

Fig 2: 12 ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1550 Metro Manila

C. Educational Communities:

Educational communities are centered around schools, colleges, and universities. The

structure involves academic buildings, student housing, and recreational facilities. Planning

may include considerations for transportation infrastructure, such as bus routes and

pedestrian-friendly pathways.

Fig 3: The Quezon Hall, the main administrative building of the University
D. Cultural or Ethnic Communities:

These communities are formed around shared cultural or ethnic backgrounds. The structure

may include community centers, places of worship, and cultural event spaces. Cultural

preservation and inclusivity are vital, with urban planning addressing the need for cultural

spaces and facilities.

Fig 4: Historic City of Vigan (Ilocos Sur)

Fig 5: Santa Maria Church (Ilocos Sur)

Fig 6: Cultural Center of the Philippines

Industrial areas are characterized by manufacturing facilities and factories. The structure is

influenced by the types of industries present, affecting zoning and environmental

considerations. Balancing industrial development with environmental sustainability and

residential proximity is a key planning challenge.

Fig 7: Industrial Park, Santo Tomas and Tanauan, Batangas.

F. Mixed-Use Center:

Mixed-Use structures are a part of a community where there are mixed used for the area,

like for commercial use, residential use and institutional uses. In the local, the concept of a

mixed-use center represents a dynamic hub that integrates diverse functionalities within a

single location, fostering a multi-faceted community experience. This mixed-use center

serves as a nexus for commercial, residential and recreational activities, creating a vibrant

and interconnected environment. Mixed-use center acts as a de facto node and proper of the

neighborhood. This is because major establishments such as the Elementary and High

Schools are located near each other as well as the Barangay Hall and the major retail stores

in the Barangay as well as the Public Market. The overall community structure
2. International Community Structures:

The term "International Community Structures" typically refers to the various organizational

frameworks, institutions, and relationships that govern interactions and cooperation among nations on

a global scale. These structures are designed to address common challenges, promote peace, facilitate

diplomacy, and foster collaboration in areas such as trade, security, and human rights. Key

components include international organizations like the United Nations (UN), regional blocs (e.g.,

European Union, ASEAN), treaties, alliances, and diplomatic protocols. These structures aim to

establish norms, resolve conflicts, and create a framework for nations to engage with one another in a

coordinated and peaceful manner.

United Nations European Union Association of Southeast Asian

A. Diplomatic Communities:

Diplomatic communities house embassies, consulates, and diplomatic residences. The

structure includes secure diplomatic compounds and residences for foreign representatives.

Security measures and international collaboration influence the planning of diplomatic areas.
 British Ambassador’s residence, Moscow

B. Expat Communities:

Expat communities host individuals from different countries. The structure involves

international schools, community clubs, and cultural exchange centers.

Planning may focus on creating a welcoming environment and providing services catering to

diverse cultural needs.

Casco Viejo, Panama, central America

C. Global Business Hubs:

These hubs are centers for multinational corporations and global business activities. The

structure is influenced by the international business environment, including office

complexes and financial districts. Infrastructure development, such as efficient

transportation and communication networks, is critical for the success of global business

hubs.

D. Transportation Structures

International transportation structures comprise physical and regulatory systems enabling

global movement of people and goods. Involving airports, seaports, highways, and

international agreements, these structures facilitate cross-border transport, promoting

practices.

Hamad International Airport in Qatar

Dingalan Bay seaport, Metro Manila

3. Community Planning Processes, Dynamics, and Empowerment:

A. Community Planning Processes:

Each stage, from needs assessment to monitoring and evaluation, involves active community

participation and collaboration with stakeholders. Technology, such as GIS mapping for

needs assessment and online platforms for community engagement, can enhance the
 planning process. Sustainability, equity, and inclusivity guide the creation of plans that

consider the long-term well-being of the community. Tools such as environmental impact

assessments and social equity indices contribute to informed and inclusive decision-making.

1. Needs Assessment: Identify the current needs, challenges, and aspirations of the

community through surveys, interviews, and data analysis.

2. Stakeholder Engagement: Foster collaboration by involving community members, local

businesses, and other stakeholders in the planning process through workshops, town

hall meetings, or focus groups.

3. Data Analysis: Evaluate demographic, economic, and environmental data to inform

decisions and understand trends that impact the community.

4. Goal Setting: Establish clear and measurable goals based on the identified needs and

aspirations of the community, ensuring they align with the overall vision.

5. Land Use Planning: Develop strategies for land allocation, zoning regulations, and

urban design to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.

6. Infrastructure Planning: Address infrastructure needs, including transportation, utilities,

and public facilities, to support the community's growth and well-being.

7. Environmental Considerations: Integrate sustainability practices and environmental

impact assessments to promote resilience and responsible development.

8. Policy Development: Formulate policies that guide decision-making, ensuring they

align with community goals and values.

9. Implementation Strategies: Outline actionable steps to bring the community plan to life,

considering phased development, funding sources, and partnerships.

10. Monitoring and Adaptation: Continuously assess the effectiveness of the plan, adjusting

as needed to respond to changing community dynamics and external factors.

B. Dynamics
 The dynamics of community planning are intricately woven into the fundamental concepts

of planning, creating a dynamic interplay that shapes the trajectory of a community's

development. At its core, community planning involves the thoughtful consideration of

various factors such as land use, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.

The conceptual model of plant community dynamics

The dynamic nature of the process arises from the continuous feedback loop between

planners and community members. Concepts like stakeholder engagement and participatory

decision-making inject a sense of vibrancy into the planning process, allowing for the

integration of diverse perspectives and local knowledge. Flexibility is another crucial

dynamic, acknowledging that communities evolve and respond to changing circumstances.

As plans are implemented, the impact on the community becomes evident, leading to further

adjustments and refinements. This dynamic relationship between planning concepts and

community dynamics ensures that the planning process remains responsive, adaptive, and

reflective of the ever-changing needs and aspirations of the community it seeks to serve.

C. Empowerment

Empowerment lies at the heart of community planning, grounded in key planning concepts

that prioritize the active involvement of residents in shaping the future of their communities.
 The concept of participatory planning recognizes that individuals possess valuable local

knowledge and insights essential for effective decision-making. Empowering community

members involves providing them with the tools, information, and opportunities to actively

contribute to the planning process. Through workshops, public hearings, and collaborative

forums, residents become co-creators of the vision for their community.

 Learning – recognising the skills, knowledge and expertise that people contribute and
develop by taking action to tackle social, economic, political and environmental problems.

 Equality – challenging the attitudes of individuals, and the practices of institutions and
society, which discriminate against and marginalise people.

 Participation – facilitating democratic involvement by people in the issues which affect their
lives based on full citizenship, autonomy, and shared power, skills, knowledge and
experience.

 Co-operation – working together to identify and implement action, based on mutual respect
of diverse cultures and contributions.
 Social Justice – enabling people to claim their human rights, meet their needs and have
greater control over the decision-making processes which affect their lives.