Lack of public spaces within LRB Community remains unresolved

Last 2020, the National Housing Authority (NHA) constructed a mixed-use building that now serves as its new district office and commercial space within the LRB Community. However, this site was first announced to become a basketball court and a multi-purpose hall, which now became a let-down among the residents. 

Questions were raised by the community on why and when did the NHA disregarded the original plans for this site, especially when one of the issues the community faces is the need for more common areas that residents can use for events and recreational activities. 

Children are playing on the streets and hallways inside residential buildings because of the lack of spaces to play in. Photo by: Jenilyn David

The site would have been used as an alternative venue for various events such as birthday parties, group exercises, and even funeral receptions. Without these common areas, such activities are held on the streets, public parking areas, and hallways inside Manggahan Residences. But doing so would be against the rules of the community.

The LRB community is currently home to 559 families, having over 2,000 minors who could’ve benefitted from new play areas. Kids tend to make noise when they play along the hallways or in the middle of the road, disturbing adults who would often yell for them to stop.

Public parking areas are also famous for minors in the community. Teens would use it as a place to hang out and kids would also treat cars as their playground.

Yet, all of these are just some of the complaints that the APOMAF receives, stemming from the lack of common areas. And with the construction of NHA’s new office, residents now wonder why their needs were not prioritized.