Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2008

War has been recurring incident in Mindanao. In Cotabato Province, major wars have been fought between the military and other groups for decades. However, those who are caught in the crossfire suffer the most. Major population displacements occur whenever war breaks out. Evacuation camps swell overnight, commencing yet another hardship to these war-displaced people. In light of this, the study therefore seeks to describe the conditions of displaced people when a war occurs: their situation in evacuation camps, the impacts of displacement in different aspects of their lives and how they situate themselves with the changes that occur every time they are displaced. Also, it digs through the efforts done by the government and other aid agencies to help these war-displaced people. Through library and internet research, and interviews with authorities and informants, a needs assessment is derived. This then used to know the spatial requirements of these people and what kind of environment they need after being displaced. Through analysis of data gathered and interview answers, a project proposed to provide these people with a transitory community given that they are appalled by relocation houses given to them and taking into consideration their nature of going back to their homelands. This transitory community was conceptualized based form the key concepts identified from the needs assessment. Structures provided in the community make use of light-weight materials and mostly are easy to assemble and restore. Major structures and spaces provided are foldable dwelling units, multipurpose halls, common toilets and baths, common cooking and dining areas. The community will have spaces where they can perform basic daily activities as well as their cultural practices. These will enable displaced people to maintain their cultural integrity despite limitations caused by war.