MANILA, Philippines?Tagalog is the shortened form of taga-ilog (from the river). The name Pasig originated from dalampasigan (shore). Pampanga stems from pampang (banks) and Pangasinan from asinan (salt beds). Many more places in our country can trace their names from references to water.

This just goes to show that village life probably began and continues to thrive beside the water. It could be because water has always been the community?s source of food, livelihood and transportation. In other words, water is a central feature of village life from days past.

Some time ago, in the middle of a commercial district, I saw a deep excavation that was begun for the development of a high-rise project. Unfortunately, the project was put on hold. Water accumulated in the hole and, in spite of the water being stagnant, life sprung from it. Various life forms, from insects to fish to reptiles and amphibians, bred.

Within a few years, there was an ecosystem firmly in place. However, the development project eventually pushed through, displacing this sub-urban ecosystem; but for 10 years, an ecological balance existed, something akin to a small rainforest. Something, again, centered on the presence of water.

Major element

Since bodies of water are where communities naturally grow, it is only appropriate that it be integrated in a development. I am glad that now, the concept of using water as a major element in real estate development is being seriously considered. We have the Lakeshore development in Pampanga, Abrio and Eton in Canlubang, and Hacienda Escudero in Quezon as prime examples of this move.

In the near future, I envision more high-density communities, in the heart of the metropolis. Although these communities may be composed of medium- to high-rise buildings, a lagoon can be set in place in the middle, with its banks lush with greenery.

Such a setup can lower the temperature in the area to a very comfortable level. Trees can serve as canopies. Flowing streams can circulate around the other areas of the development. Buildings could be adorned with vegetation.

Technology

Although much effort and will have to be put in to achieve this ideal, technology and modern equipment are now available to make it into a reality. Pumping and filtration systems are already less costly than years before and have become more efficient.

There is more information available on bio-filtration techniques to treat the water organically to keep it crystal clear, odorless and ?dengue? free. Hydrophonics can also help keep the plants healthy, even with minimal or zero use of soil.

Our local weather supports this kind of environment, because we are blessed with both warmth and rainfall throughout the year. Countries that experience winter cannot readily avail of this benefit but we can. It is merely up to us to take advantage of our natural edge.

Our future villages do not have to remain stone- and steel-based alone. We can return to the water to recreate a more life-sustaining environment. We can return water as the focal point of future developments. I long to see water and nature play important elements in the community of the future.

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For your comments, please email to marcosdeguzman@yahoo.com.