Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2009

Government centers can be treated as opportunity to create a landmark to serve and reflect a community. This study envisioned a microcosm of Davao City as a melting pot of culture- a place where civic duties and social responsibilities come fulfilled and a place where different social classes and culture converge. To carry out this vision, the researcher identified three main components that would embody it ? culture, legibility, and user activity. The study aimed to consolidate the three components by evaluating two government centers in Mindanao, the Civic center in San Pedro, Davao City and the ARMM compound in Cotabato City. The researcher identified subgroups to represent the population of the area to do cognitive mapping and surveys in order to extract their mental maps that were later interpreted to establish design standards for paths, districts, landmarks, nodes, edges- the five elements that make a place legible. Having analyzed user behavior and activities, the study concludes that major difference in activity was determined by religion and the practices behind it. The study also ascertained that there is a need for a new civic center that would house the government offices in Davao, and would incorporate worship halls and trade centers that would encourage economic activity within its premises. The transacting public that deals with government processes shall be spared from strenuous efforts in accessing those services through its activity-based approach that patterns the grouping of the civic offices according to their behavior and activity. A one-stop shop is established, as support offices are being brought nearer to the people with a design that pays attention to the ease with which the public understands the layout and image of the place.