Uploaded on 2017-02-18 by Jay Aragon

A) Which re your top livability criteria? 1) Economy 2) Environment 3) Infrastructure 4) Transportation 5) Safety B) Why do we live here? I'm a Filipino currently living in Singapore for 4 years. 5 reasons why I live here: 1) Job Opportunity - The main reason I live here. 4 years ago I left Philippines to look for work here in Singapore. Eventually, I got lucky and was hired in an Architectural Firm. 2) Infrastructure - Although limited by land area, it never stop Singapore from developing its infrastructure. When I had a vacation here in Singapore last 2010, I enjoyed seeing the City Skyline, Parks and Recreation, Transport System and others. When I started working, I thought I'll just do designs & models, and implement at construction site. But there is more to it, I've learned particularly during authority submissions, how important and strict they are in following the regulation and codes. The government takes a crucial part in checking the plans and buildings so everyone can benefit especially people with disability/ visually impaired. Even there is a massive infrastructure growth in the past years they ensure that it always be PWD, pedestrian and bicycle friendly environment. Everyday I discover new things, and surely add up to my experience and knowledge as an architect in the years to come. 3)Transportation - Back in the Philippines, going to works daily is a hard time for everyone due to a lack of good transportation. The first time I visited Singapore, one of the things I notice was how convenient to travel from point A to point B. The transportation system is so good, that you can leave your car at home when you need to get to work or go somewhere. They make sure that no matter where you are in Singapore, you have a decent access to the system. It is accessible to everyone even for the people with disability. Until now, I'm still amazed on their public transportation system, and they are still upgrading for the comfort of everyone. 4) Safety - Singapore has a low crime rate compared to other Asian cities. The government implements the law properly and citizens/ foreign workers abide these laws. Me and my wife feel safe even going home late at night. 5) Recreation Possibilities - A city with diverse culture, hence, ranges of sports to choose from. There are a lot of parks, open space and recreation areas around. Basketball courts within HDB blocks, parks with jog paths, bicycle lanes, community centres and swimming pools and many more. There is is a variety of indoor and outdoor activities I enjoyed doing to keep me relax and healthy. C) TO what extend your own place of residence fulfill your ideal livability area? 1) Economy - 93 2) Environment - 88 3) Infrastructure - 91 4) Transportation - 90 5) Safety - 88 D) What would you change? Singapore is one of the expensive city to live in. If I was a mayor I'll try to make the Housing rentals and Healthcare less expensive and affordable particularly to the foreign work force. Locals and Permanent Residence definitely has an edge due to the government subsidy for their needs. But for us regular workers, we rely on our salary and insurance to cover the needs especially Healthcare. E) Why do we move? As a foreign worker, I rely on my work permit to stay in Singapore. And there is no assurance until when I can have a job or renew work permit. If I'll be given a chance I would like to move in these Cities. 1) Aukland, New Zealand a) Job Opportunity for Immigrants b) Health Care. Work visa holders benefit from public health system which is low cost or free. c) Environment. As a nature lover who loves to hike. It has beautiful sceneries and amazing landscape. d) Safety. Considered as one of the safest places in the world. e) Culture. Since its very multi-cultural and has number of immigrants, it doesn't seem to be as racist as other places. 2) Adelaide, Australia a) Job Opportunity for Immigrants b) Good Quality Health Care. c) Good Public Transport System. d) Stable Economy. e) One of the affordable big city in Australia. 3) Toronto Canada a) Job Opportunity for Immigrants b) Good Quality Health Care. c) Stable Economy. d) Considered as one of the Safest Cities. e) Diversity in People and Culture