Urban Poverty in the Philippines

In 2008, the global population shifted from rural to urban. Now, more than 1 billion people live in urban slums. In the Philippines, these are often overcrowded, polluted, and dangerous with little access to water and sanitation. As numbers increase, the government tries to evict people to redevelop or 'clean up' the city. However, relocation sites often have few services and little income earning opportunities. So people try to stay within the cities where they can earn a living and support their families. Christian Aid, through its partners, works in Manila's slums to help these communities make a living, and campaign for secure housing. Whilst life remains tough, poor communities increasingly have a voice to bring about change.