COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND
ARCHITECTURE
ARC 035 – SITE PLANNING 02
UP-FAS2-BSAR4-02
TUESDAY & THURSDAY (3:00 – 4:00 PM)
CASE STUDY
CASE STUDY: "Urban Resilience in
Crisis: Addressing Waste Management,
Flood Mitigation, and Sanitation
Challenges in Dagupan City"
MIRADOR, STEVEN BOSS G
STUDENT
AR. CHRISTY ANN M. LLAMIDO
INSTRUCTOR
CASE STUDY: "Urban Resilience in Crisis: Addressing Waste Management, Flood
Mitigation, and Sanitation Challenges in Dagupan City"
Brief History of Dagupan City
Dagupan City, situated in the province of Pangasinan, Philippines, is known as the "Bangus
Capital of the Philippines" due to its thriving aquaculture industry, particularly milkfish farming.
The name Dagupan is derived from the Pangasinan word "panndaragupan," meaning "gathering
place," signifying its early role as a trading and cultural hub.
Economic Importance: Dagupan is famous for its bangus (milkfish) and has a strong
presence in aquaculture, fishing, and commerce.
Geography: Located along the Lingayen Gulf and the Pantal River, it is prone to
flooding but benefits from fertile lands and rich marine resources.
Cultural Significance: Dagupan celebrates the Bangus Festival, showcasing its cultural
heritage and local cuisine.
Modern Developments: It is a key urban center in Northern Luzon, known for its
educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and bustling markets.
Dagupan’s rich history, strategic location, and cultural vibrancy make it a significant city in the
Philippines.
Major Problems in Dagupan City
Lack of Proper Waste Management
o Inefficient garbage collection and disposal systems lead to pollution in waterways
and urban areas.
o Mismanaged waste contributes to clogged drainage systems, exacerbating
flooding.
Heavy Flooding in Certain Areas
o Uneven road elevation and poor urban planning cause water to pool in lower-
lying areas.
o The city's proximity to rivers and the Lingayen Gulf makes it prone to tidal and
rain-induced flooding.
Poor Sanitary Conditions
o Inadequate sewerage systems and improper waste disposal impact public health.
o Contaminated waterways and stagnant water pose risks of waterborne diseases.
These issues highlight the need for sustainable urban planning, better infrastructure, and stricter
enforcement of waste and sanitation policies to improve the quality of life in Dagupan City.
Possible Solutions for Dagupan City's Major Problems
1. Lack of Proper Waste Management
Establish a Comprehensive Waste Segregation Program:
o Implement strict waste segregation at the household and community
levels.
o Provide color-coded bins for biodegradable, recyclable, and non-
recyclable waste.
Develop a Modernized Waste Disposal Facility:
o Upgrade landfill sites to eco-friendly waste management systems.
o Invest in waste-to-energy technologies to reduce landfill dependence.
Community Engagement and Education:
o Conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of recycling and
reducing waste.
o Encourage community-led clean-up drives and incentives for
sustainable practices.
2. Heavy Flooding in Certain Areas
Improve Drainage Systems:
o Redesign and maintain drainage systems to ensure efficient water flow.
o Remove blockages caused by waste and sediment accumulation.
Implement Flood Control Infrastructure:
o Build retention ponds, levees, and pump stations in flood-prone areas.
o Elevate critical infrastructure and roads while ensuring proper water
runoff to avoid flooding in adjacent areas.
Adopt Sustainable Urban Planning:
o Introduce zoning regulations to prevent construction in high-risk flood
zones.
o Use permeable materials for road and sidewalk construction to improve
water absorption.
3. Poor Sanitary Conditions
Enhance Sewerage Systems:
o Construct centralized sewage treatment plants to manage wastewater
efficiently.
o Regularly maintain and upgrade sewer lines to prevent leaks and
overflows.
Enforce Strict Sanitation Policies:
o Implement fines and penalties for littering and improper disposal of
waste.
o Require establishments to adhere to hygiene and sanitation standards.
Promote Public Health Campaigns:
o Educate residents about proper hygiene and the dangers of poor
sanitation.
o Distribute low-cost sanitation kits in underserved communities.
Integrated Approach
Collaborative Governance: Partner with government agencies, non-profits,
and private sectors to fund and implement solutions.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish task forces to oversee progress and
adapt strategies as needed.
Community Participation: Encourage local involvement to ensure solutions
are practical and widely adopted.
By addressing these issues holistically, Dagupan City can build a more resilient, sustainable, and
livable urban environment.
Conclusion
Dagupan City, with its rich history and vibrant culture, faces significant challenges in waste
management, flooding, and sanitation that hinder its potential for sustainable growth. However,
these issues are not insurmountable. By adopting a multi-faceted approach that includes modern
infrastructure, stricter policies, and active community participation, the city can overcome these
problems. Strategic investments in waste segregation, flood control systems, and improved
sanitation facilities will not only enhance the quality of life for its residents but also safeguard its
environment for future generations. With collective action and visionary planning, Dagupan can
transform its challenges into opportunities, setting an example for other cities striving for urban
resilience and sustainability.
