While most of us may complain or shun the idea of bringing our friends to our houses because we feel it is not cool, fashionable, or presentable enough, beyond the comforts of our contained world are those who would see our unpainted walls as art, our unpaved yard a refuge, and our roofed house a paradise.
There is no basic need as indispensable as the need for food, water, and shelter.
Whereas the first two fill the flesh, the latter does a lot more than shielding one from the sun and rain.
It is a home, a repository of memories made and to be made, and a symbol of how well life has turned out on account of one’s hard work.
Yet, not everyone is able to satisfy this basic need, not everyone can afford to see housing as a basic right that you can assert to the state you belong. The majority, if not all, of the Filipinos in the slums see it as a privilege and a far-fetched dream.
This is the way they see it now, but it should not be the same way for you. Refocus your lens and look beyond the surface, beyond your comforts and see the true state of housing in the country.
The University of the Philippines Task Force Arki, in heralding its 30th year of service, is launching MATA, an awareness and advocacy campaign shedding light on the housing situation in the country – the challenges it confronts, and how for good or bad, it has shaped and affected families and communities.
Take part in this enlightening journey for the whole month of April. Catch our experiential exhibit in key places around the UP Diliman Campus from April 18-21, 2017 at the Melchor Hall 2nd Floor Lobby and April 25-28, 2017 at the Palma Hall (AS) Lobby. Join us also at our culminating event, a house painting project for the benefit of the Masagana Community in Angat, Bulacan. Material contributions and donations are welcome.
Refocus your lens. Be aware and informed.#BuksanAngMATA
Follow MATÁ on www.facebook.com/TFAMata/
