Methodologies in Identification, Analysis, and Measurement of Visual Pollution: The Case Study of Intramuros

Stanley Don Barroga,Honorio T Palarca,Nappy L Navarra

doi:10.29244/jli.v13i1.33322

Stanley Don Barroga, Honorio T Palarca + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.29244/jli.v13i1.33322

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Abstract

The problem of visual pollution in the Philippines has been increasingly evident, and people are becoming aware of it. But to create effective solutions, a deep understanding of the problem should first be established. This paper was aimed to identify, analyze, and measure the visual pollution present in Intramuros, a heritage city in the Philippines that encapsulates the Philippine colonial architecture in the 1890s. The site is known for its preservation of its city image but also modern landscape changes. To achieve the goal, the application of the Indirect and Direct Method of Landscape Evaluation was executed. These methods led to two results: (1) the identification of components— which are landscape attributes and indicators, that make up a visual landscape; and (2) the understanding of how it is perceived by the observer through a survey and interviews, which are quantified by ratings. To further understand the relationship of indicators and ratings with each other, a series of correlational studies was done. This resulted to the establishment of Disturbance, Stewardship, and Image Rating as the primary descriptors of visual pollution. A weighted average formula was then established, which quantified the visual pollution of Intramuros through indicator values and response ratings. It was concluded that visual pollution in Intramuros, through research-based methodology, can be identified, analyzed, and measured. Specific viewpoints in the district were identified as unacceptably visually-polluted. Magallanes St. cor. Victoria St. in Intramuros had the highest VP Score at -4.886. Elements that contributed to visual pollution were also identified.

Highlights

IntroductionThrough vision, constantly communicate with the environment
Humans, through vision, constantly communicate with the environment
An interview was conducted with architect and Intramuros Administration – Cultural Preservation Division Chief Ramil Tibayan, and professor and Intramuros Administration – Urban Planning and Community Development Division Chief Marrietta Allaga

Summary

Introduction

Through vision, constantly communicate with the environment Through this constant process of visual communication, humans develop and redevelop a mental map wherein information, memories, experiences, ideas, and feelings are stored. This collection of information defines the city to a single person in a community. The similarities among the many collections from the whole community in a city is what Lynch (1960) referred to as the “image of the city.”. He proposed that this large collection of information is the perception of the community towards the city. As the community moves about the environment and gathers new information, the image is continuously revised - creating a two-way constant communication between the community and the environment (Lynch, 1960)

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