Communities have been equipped with enumeration and mapping skills using the STDM. They are now also able to manage this STDM generated data presented in form of maps and reports for instance in engaging the Local Government Units (LGUs), Local Housing Boards (LHBs), the Urban Poor Affairs Office (UPAO) among other stakeholders working with communities to improve living conditions in the informal settlements. The STDM activities have also formed several linkages between the Alliance and professional and people’s organizations, LGUs, academic institutions and other stakeholders across the country, particularly in the cities of Muntinlupa, Talisay and Davao.

Some encouraging experiences from this engagement include a community along the Philippine National Railway whose data containing their updated membership master list supported their recognition in the city’s UPAO. Yet another community living in the near the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa is using data collected from the community to lobby and negotiate with the local service providers to install water and electricity connection in the area.

Photos show the different activities in the Philippines.