NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

SUMACAB ESTE CABANATUAN CITY, NUEVA ECIJA, PHILIPPINESS

Urban Design Proposal for the City of Puerto Princesa

A Research Proposal Submitted to the Faculty of the

College of Architecture

In Partial Fulfilment
Of the Requirements for the Degree
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

Ruiz, Jennielle
BSAR-5E
Student Researcher

AR. Annaliza Gatoc

Specialization 2 Professor

2023-2024
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION OF THE DESIGN PROBLEM

I
Brief Profile
Physical Features
Composition
Geography
Climate
Transportation Modes
Zoning Map
History
IMAGING THE CITY
II
Cultural Heritage
Infrastructure
Safety and livability for the city of residents
Identity and attractiveness of city for transients

ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN THE CITY

III Local urban design impact
Mobility and public space integration
Urban living and Urban economy
Cultural and architectural heritage

PROPOSALS
IV Proposed Storm Surge Protection
Enhancing Accessibility and Promoting
Sustainable Tourism in Puerto Princesa

KEY QUESTIONS
V
Local urban design impact
Mobility and public space integration
Urban living and Urban economy
Cultural and architectural heritage

REFERENCES
VI
I. INTRODUCTION OF THE DESIGN PROBLEM

BRIEF PROFILE OF THE PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PALAWAN

PHYSICAL FEATURES
Puerto Princesa City a tropical paradise with a bustling urbancenter perfect for business with leisure
trips. Lush rainforestsand white sand beaches are simply hours away from the cityproper, where a
banking and commercial boom has made lifeeasier for workaholics who can never run away from
theoffice.Puerto Princesa City is a relatively young settlement. It wasestablished as a city only in 1970.
The first settlers arrivedhere almost a century earlier though, on March 4, 1872,celebrated every year
hence as the foundation day of Puerto Princesa.
COMPOSITION
Puerto Princesa City Philippines sprawls across 253,982 hectares of land stretched over 106
kilometers,making it the country’s largest city. Its narrowest breath is in Bahile, where only 8.5
kilometers of land separate the east and the west coast.Puerto Princesa Philippines has 66 barangays,
majority of which are rural settlements scattered inunderdeveloped land. Inhabitants number about
150,000, most of them engaged in agriculture andfishing. A third of the population resides in the city
proper, an urbanized settlement on the shores ofPuerto Princesa Bay. With its huge trees and fresh air,
the city has managed to retain its frontierambience despite the onset of modern trends and structures
GEOGRAPHY
The City of Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Philippines is located 306 nautical miles southwest of
Manila,205 nautical miles from Panay and about 250 nautical miles from Zamboanga. It is bounded on
theNorth by the Municipality of San Vicente and Roxas and on the the South by the Municipality of
Aborlan.Its western side faces the South China Sea while in its eastern coast lays the Sulu SeaPuerto
Princesa City has a total land area of 253,982 hectares making it the largest City in the country.The City
is comprised of 35 urban barangays and 31 rural barangays. The total area of the urbanbarangays is
14,716 hectares or only 5.7941% of the total land area of the City. The largest land area ofthe City is
comprised of the rural barangays with a total land area 239,266 hectares or 94.2059% of thetotal land
area of the City
 CLIMATE
Puerto Princesa Philippines climate consists of pronounced wet and dry seasons equally
dividedthroughout the year. The wettest month is September while the driest month is February. From
Octoberto April, the northeast monsoon whips up waves on the coast facing the South China Sea. The
southwestmonsoon blows from April to August.The best time to visit Puerto Princesa would be the
summer months from April to June, when seas areusually calm. Humidity is high but annual average
temperatures are comfortable at 27 degrees celsius. Nights may be chilly during rainy days, especially in
forested areas, so it is advisable for visitors to bring warm clothing at all times

TRANSPORTATION MODES
Daily flights of average seventeen (17) commercial airlines from Manila and Cebu at approximately
one hour.
Weekly voyage of passenger and cargo ships from Manila and Iloilo.
Car rentals may be arranged with independent rent-a-car service providers.
Trycicles, multicabs and taxi are the most convenient way around the city.
External routes are served by jeepneys, air-conditioned shuttle vans and buses plying between the
city and other municipalities.

ZONING MAP OF PUERTO PRINCESA CITY

HISTORY OF PUERTO PRINCESA CITY

Puerto Princesa, located on the island of Palawan in the Philippines, has a rich history
that dates back to ancient times. The area was originally inhabited by the indigenous Tagbanua people,
who engaged in fishing, farming, and trading with neighboring communities. Spanish explorers arrived
in the 16th century and named the area "Puerto Princesa," which translates to "Princess Port." The name
is said to honor Princess Eulalia of Spain.

During the Spanish colonial period, Puerto Princesa served as a garrison town, and its
strategic location made it a vital defense post. Over the years, the town continued to develop, and in
1872, it officially became a municipality. Puerto Princesa played a crucial role in World War II, serving
as a refuge for those escaping the Japanese occupation.

In 1970, Puerto Princesa was converted into a city, and it has since become known for its
stunning natural beauty and biodiversity. The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, attracts visitors from around the world. The city has also gained recognition for its
commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

Today, Puerto Princesa is a bustling city that harmoniously blends its historical past with
modern developments. Tourism plays a significant role in the city's economy, with visitors exploring its
pristine beaches, lush jungles, and unique ecosystems. The local government continues to prioritize
environmental conservation, and initiatives are in place to protect the city's natural wonders. Puerto
Princesa stands as a testament to the coexistence of history, culture, and nature, making it a captivating
destination for both locals and tourists alike.
II. IMAGING OF THE CITY

Cultural Heritage in Puerto Princesa:

Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park: This

UNESCO World Heritage Site is the crown jewel of
Puerto Princesa. The 8.2-kilometer underground river,
flowing through a vast cave system with towering
stalactites and stalagmites, is a sight to behold. It also
boasts a rich biodiversity, serving as a habitat for
various wildlife species.

Puerto Princesa Baywalk: This scenic promenade

stretches along the Puerto Princesa Bay, offering
stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. It's a popular
spot for locals and tourists to stroll, bike, or simply
enjoy the sea breeze..

Puerto Princesa Underground River Cruise Terminal:

This modern terminal serves as the starting point for
boat tours of the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River.
It offers amenities like ticketing booths, information
counters, and souvenir shops.

Puerto Princesa City Hall: This imposing building

houses the city government offices and serves as the
center of local administration. Its modern architecture
and spacious grounds make it a landmark in the city

Palawan Heritage Center: This museum houses exhibits

on the province's rich history, culture, and natural
heritage. Visitors can learn about the indigenous tribes,
explore archaeological finds, and gain insights into the
region's unique biodiversity.
Infrastructure in Puerto Princesa:

Puerto Princesa International Airport: This modern

airport serves as the main gateway to Palawan. It caters
to both domestic and international flights, making it
convenient for tourists and locals alike.

Puerto Princesa Baywalk: This scenic promenade

stretches along the Puerto Princesa Bay, offering
stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. It's a popular
spot for locals and tourists to stroll, bike, or simply
enjoy the sea breeze.

Puerto Princesa Underground River Cruise Terminal:

This modern terminal serves as the starting point for
boat tours of the Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River.
It offers amenities like ticketing booths, information
counters, and souvenir shops

Puerto Princesa City Hall: This imposing building

houses the city government offices and serves as the
center of local administration. Its modern architecture
and spacious grounds make it a landmark in the city.

Palawan State University: This public university is the

largest in the province, offering various degree
programs in different fields. It plays a vital role in
education and research, contributing significantly to the
city's development..
 a) Safety and livability for the city of residents:

Baranggay San Pedro, Puerto Princesa

This baranggay is located in the heart of Puerto
Princesa, and it is home to many of the city's important
government offices and businesses. However, it is also
one of the city's most flood-prone areas. To improve
safety and livability for residents, the city government
has proposed to build a new flood control system in the
barangay. The system would include a network of
drainage canals, pumping stations, and floodwalls. It
would help to protect the barangay from flooding
during heavy rains.

Baranggay Sicsican, Puerto Princesa

This barangay is located on the outskirts of Puerto
Princesa, and it is home to a large number of informal
settlers. The barangay lacks many basic infrastructure
and services, such as roads, water supply, and
sanitation. To improve safety and livability for
residents, the city government has proposed to develop
a new integrated community settlement in the barangay.
The settlement would include new housing units, roads,
schools, and healthcare facilities. It would also have a
water supply and sanitation system.

Barangay Bancao-Bancao
Located in the northern part of the city, Barangay
Bancao-Bancao is a rural barangay with a large number
of indigenous peoples. The barangay is prone to
landslides and flooding, and it lacks basic infrastructure
and services

Residents in Bancao-Bancao, was before dominantly

focusing on fishing, and livestock businesses. But for
having interest to increase the quality of life, residents
initiate to open minds in educating themselves. A total
of 10 school buildings are present in the community; 6
public schools (5 pre-school and 1 elementary) and 4
Private Schools (1 pre-school, 2 elementary and 1
secondary). Enough for now to accomodate the twelve
thousand and eighty seven (12,087) students recorded
for studying for three thousand eighty-nine (3,089)
students in higher education goes to universities and
colleges in the city but still school buildings that are
Palawan Polytechnic built in the area lacks amenities and proper design
College, Inc. attributions.
Mauricio Reynoso Memorial
Elementary School
b) Identity and attractiveness of city for transients:

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is one of the
most popular tourist destinations in Puerto Princesa, and
it is estimated to attract over half a million visitors each
year. However, the park's infrastructure is struggling to
keep up with the influx of visitors. There is a need to
improve the park's visitor center, as well as the roads and
other facilities leading to the park.

Barangays Maruyogon, Manalo, and Lucbuan

to develop new tourism sites on the northeastern barangays of Puerto Princesa. The three
barangays have no community-based sustainable tourism (CBST) sites yet, and the opportunity
is “perfect for them.”

Brgy. Maruyugon Brgy. Manalo Brgy. Lucbuan

Baranggay Concepcion, Puerto Princesa

This baranggay is home to the Palawan Wildlife Rescue
and Conservation Center, which is home to a variety of
rescued and endangered animals, such as crocodiles,
snakes, and monkeys. The center is a popular tourist
destination, but it is also an important research and
conservation center. However, the center's facilities are
outdated and in need of repair. There is a need to improve
the enclosures for the animals, as well as the visitor center
and other educational facilities.
III. ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN THE CITY OF PUERTO PRINCESA, PALAWAN
Local Urban Design Impact

1. Waste Management Concern in Brgy. Bagong Silang:

- Issue: Collection and Disposal of Wet Trash
Residents collecting sacks of wet trash and coastal debris, posing potential health and environmental
hazards.

2. Safety Infrastructure Development in Concepcion and Tanabag:

- Issue: Bridge Construction in Sitio Tagnaya and Sitio Kalakwasan
Ensuring resident safety during inclement weather by building a hanging bridge to prevent risks
associated with river overflow.

3. Security Infrastructure for Brgy. San Rafael and Macarascas:

- Issue: Police Station Building Construction
Addressing the need for enhanced security and protection for residents through the establishment of a
police station.

4. Improved Local Connectivity in Barangay Manalo:

- Issue: Cabairan Footbridge Construction
Emphasizing the positive impact of the nearing completion of the footbridge on local residents'
convenience.

5. Adequate Street Lighting:

- Issue: Illumination for Safety
Highlighting the significance of proper street lighting for the safety of residents, especially children,
particularly during nighttime.

6. Environmental Impact of Informal Settlers on Water Quality:

- Issue: Informal Settlers and Water Quality
Discussing the environmental consequences of informal settlements, specifically their impact on fecal
coliform and phytoplankton genera in water quality.

Mobility and Public Space Integration

1. Infrastructure Development and Urban Planning in San Jose and Sta. Monica:
- Issue: Paving of Mangga Road and Paduga Road, and Balayong Park Circuit Phase II
Emphasizing the importance of road infrastructure development, underground cabling, and
comprehensive road network completion for enhanced connectivity and community well-being.

2. Improving Water Quality in Barangay Kamuning:

- Issue: Modern Sewerage Treatment Plant Implementation
Acknowledging the positive impact of modern sewerage treatment technology on water cleanliness,
particularly in areas like the market, demonstrating a commitment to environmental well-being.

3. Expanding Connectivity and Development in Brgy. Mangingisda and Luzviminda:

- Issue: Concrete Road Completion and City Hall Site Development
Outlining plans to complete concrete roads, enhancing connectivity from Paglaum to the cemetery road
and beyond, while also emphasizing the importance of site development for the Luzviminda City Hall.
Urban Living and Urban Economy

1. Housing Shortages:

Issue: Rapid urban growth may result in a shortage of affordable housing options, affecting residents'
living conditions.
Increased housing costs and inadequate living spaces can strain the urban population, leading to social
and economic disparities.

2. Waste Management:

Issue: Urban areas often face challenges in managing and disposing of waste, leading to environmental
degradation.
Poor waste management can harm public health, degrade urban aesthetics, and pose a threat to the city's
natural surroundings.

Cultural and Architectural Heritage

1. Batak Cultural Center Project: Preserving a Vanishing Heritage
- Issue:Rapid Population Decrease and Cultural Erosion
Addressing the alarming decline in the population of the Batak tribe, accompanied by the risk of losing
their rich cultural heritage, as evidenced by a significant decrease from the 1900s to the present. This
raises concerns about the preservation of their unique traditions, practices, and identity.
2. Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Lack of measures to address pollution inputs to the river threatens the ecological balance of the
underground river. Pollution can harm aquatic ecosystems, disrupt the river's natural processes, and
compromise its value as a pristine natural attraction.

Effects of climate change and the people who does not have discipline the environment suffer. The coral
bleaching which it becomes white and because of this the fish and other animals under the water affects.

3. Tubbataha Reef Marine Park

Pollution and Marine Debris

With the reef being a global tourist attraction and local fishing ground, the park is threatened by non-
decomposing garbage, which is increasing in the oceans each year. The main threat is plastic garbage
which animals may mistake as food and can cause injury or harm. Abandoned fishing lines can end up
wrapped around the necks of birds causing their death and there is even evidence of nests being
constructed including debris.

Climate Change
The human induced changing climate on the planet poses the largest threat to Tubbataha. The increased
water temperatures and the increasing acidification of the oceans means the corals and wildlife are
constantly under stress from a process known as "bleaching" and this can put them at risk of dying.
While the corals can recover from some bleaching events, this cannot be continued indefinitely. There
has also been an increase in the level of natural disasters such as cyclones and typhoons which have the
potential to destabilise the marine environment by increasing ocean acidification.

Tourism
While tourism is not currently considered a major threat to the reef as this can be controlled through the
issuing of permits and ongoing patrols by rangers, the levels are being closely monitored as any
significant increases puts an already fragile environment under more stress. Funds received from tourism
are critical to further the conservation of the park and are a key in securing the parks future.
IV. DESIGN PROPOSALS

1. PROPOSED STORM SURGE PROTECTION

Proposing a comprehensive storm surge protection

system that integrates various amenities for public use.
This is a creative and multifunctional approach to
urban planning and disaster resilience

Storm Surge Protection:

The primary focus is on protecting the area from
storm surges, which could involve the construction
of barriers, seawalls, or other structures designed to
mitigate the impact of high tides and storm waves. Puerto Princesa Map
.
DESIGN DIAGRAMS AND STRATEGIES

Existing Map of
Storm Surge in Puerto Princesa

Map of areas that prone to

storm surge

Proposed Map of
Storm Surge in Puerto Princesa
 Storm Surge Walls:
Design robust storm surge walls that can
withstand the expected surge height.
Incorporate aesthetics to make the walls visually
appealing.

Seating Shelter:
Seating-shelters
provides a
comfortable and safe
Flyover: space for people to
A flyover could be an gather. This serves
elevated structure, dual purposes,
possibly a bridge or offering a place for
walkway, that allows relaxation under
pedestrians and cyclists to normal conditions
move freely over the and a refuge during
protected area. This could storms.
also serve as an
evacuation route during
storms.
Bike Point:
Designating an area as a
bike point suggests a
focus on promoting
sustainable
transportation.

Shop:
Including a shop suggests a commercial space for
the community. This could be a convenience
store, cafe, or other retail space that adds
vibrancy to the area and provides essential
services.
Garden:
Gardens also contribute to stormwater
management and can act as natural buffers
during extreme weather events.
Skate and Slide:
Recreational elements like skateboarding and
sliding areas adds a fun dimension to the space,
attracting different age groups and fostering
community engagement.
.2. ENHANCING ACCESSIBILITY AND
PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN
PUERTO PRINCESA

It aims to not only increase road

capacity but also foster a more sustainable
and accessible environment for residents and
visitors alike.

Beyond road expansion, the Puerto

Princesa Infrastructure Expansion Project
extends its vision to prioritize pedestrian
safety and community well-being. The
addition of railings and sidewalks aims to
encourage sustainable modes of
transportation, promoting safe and efficient
travel by foot. These provisions also create
conducive spaces for outdoor activities such
as walking and jogging, contributing to the
overall health and wellness of the community.

The project aligns with environmental

conservation efforts by complementing
Puerto Princesa's commitment to preserving
its UNESCO Heritage Site—the Puerto
Princesa Subterranean River National Park,
renowned as one of the New 7 Wonders of the Existing view of the major road along
World. The improved infrastructure is poised Puerto Princesa North Road (PPNR)
to attract more tourists to this iconic
destination, enhancing their overall
experience and supporting the local economy.

DESIGN DIAGRAMS AND STRATEGIES

V. KEY QUESTIONS:

1. Local Urban Design Impact

What improvement will be made to immediate neighborhood?

The immediate neighborhood can be improved by incorporating more green spaces, improving
walkability, and ensuring accessibility for all residents. This can be achieved by constructing pedestrian-
friendly streets, adding more parks and recreational spaces, and making buildings accessible to
individuals with disabilities.

How will it strategically connect to the city and metropolitan structure?

The neighborhood can be strategically connected to the city and metropolitan structure through
efficient public transportation systems, well-planned roads, and bike lanes. This will make it simple for
people and things to move both inside and outside of the neighborhood.

2. Mobility and Public space integration

How will the design proposals intregrate to the exisiting public spaces and mobility networks?
The design proposals can integrate with existing public spaces and mobility networks by
considering the current layout and usage of these spaces. This includes understanding the flow of traffic,
pedestrian movement, and how public spaces are currently being used.

How will the design of public spaces and mobility infrastructures improve places in the district?
The design of public spaces and mobility infrastructures can improve places in the district by
making them more user-friendly, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. Using innovative design ideas, adding
vegetation, and utilizing durable materials can all help achieve this.

How will the quality of mobility of the people in the district will be improve?
The quality of mobility of the people in the district can be improved through efficient public
transportation, creating pedestrian-friendly streets, and providing adequate parking spaces.

What new concepts and idea of mobility do you propose for the district?
New concepts of mobility for the district could include the provision of railings and sidewalk
that would encourage safe and efficient travel by foot and the conduct of outdoor activities such as
walking and jogging.

How will you improve the quality and efficiency of transfer points and transfer interface nodes?
The quality and efficiency of transfer points and transfer interface nodes can be improved by
ensuring they are well-signposted, easily accessible, and provide comfortable waiting areas
Where do you want these intermodal transport stops to be located?
Intermodal transport stops should ideally be located near major points of interest such as
shopping centers, office buildings, and residential areas.

How can be the design of public street network help to avoid or reduce the effects of urban heat islands and
help with storm-and wastewater issues?
The design of the public street network can help to avoid or reduce the effects of urban heat
islands and help with storm-and wastewater issues by incorporating green infrastructure such as
permeable pavements, rain gardens, and tree-lined streets.

What is your green and open space concepts?

The concept of green and open spaces, is “city in a forest” with align to the city’s vision which
is “Puerto Princesa: A model city in sustainable development, exhibiting the character of a city in a forest
and demonstrating the proper balance between development and environment.”
3. Urban Living and Urban Economy

How can a diversity and density of people, uses and offers be organized in the city to avoid dead areas that
are potential spots for crimes and undesirable activities?
A diversity and density of people, uses, and offers can be organized in the city to avoid dead areas
that are potential spots for crimes and undesirable activities by ensuring mixed-use development. This
means having residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within the same area.

How will you balance safety and security with public space and street relationship?
Safety and security can be balanced with public space and street relationship by ensuring good
lighting, visibility, and active street fronts. This means having shops, cafes, and other businesses that
open onto the street, creating a sense of activity and surveillance.

How are should local businesses be integrated in the living spaces and public spaces?
Local businesses can be integrated into living spaces and public spaces in several ways. One
approach is through the concept of mixed-use development, which combines residential, commercial,
and recreational spaces in a single community. This multifaceted approach ensures that residents have
easy access to everything they need, thus reducing long hours of commute and contributing to a more
sustainable way of living.

4. Cultural and Architectural Heritage

How is the existing urban fabric and the heritage of the site part of the design?
The existing urban fabric and the heritage of the site can be part of the design in several ways. One
method is by incorporating cultural heritage into architectural design, which can help to preserve and
celebrate the past, while also creating a sense of place and identity in contemporary urban environments.
There are several heritage destinations in Puerto Princesa, including the Palawan Heritage Center,
Palawan Museum, and Palawan Special Battalion WWII Memorial Museum. These sites provide a
glimpse into the city's history and culture, and their preservation and integration into the urban fabric
are crucial for maintaining the city's unique identity..
VI. REFERENCES:

Comprehensive Land Use Plan of Puerto Princesa 2013-2022

https://puertoprincesa.ph/?q=government/city-mayors-initiatives/infrastructure-program
https://palawan-news.com/save-the-puerto-princesa-bays-sees-massive-turnout-for-second-city-coastal-
cleanup/
https://www.google.com/amp/s/palawan-news.com/bayron-leads-groundbreaking-for-19-key-projects-in-
puerto-princesa/%3famp=1
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X21005543
https://pia.gov.ph/news/2023/05/17/pagpapalapad-ng-puerto-princesa-north-road-tapos-na
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/news/30085
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/652/