Tropical Design

Presented by Mattheusmer Jethro N. Bancaso

Agenda
Introduction

Geographical Context

Climate Classification

Rainfall Patterns
Agenda
Factors Influencing Climate

Regional Climate Zones

Impact of Climate on Design

Adapting to Climate
INTRODUCTION
 Introdution
The Philippines is an archipelago
found in Southeast Asia, characterized
by a unique and complex climatic
system that affects the lives of its
people, their economy, and the very
ecology of its lands. patterns.
Introduction
Its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire and near the equator makes it
highly vulnerable to many meteorological processes, including monsoons,
typhoons, and seasonal changes. Grasping the climates of the Philippines is
critical for comprehending how these elements affect agriculture,
infrastructure, and everyday life within the nation. This presentation aims
to examine the different climate zones, seasonal variations, and
environmental issues encountered by the Philippines, starting with its
geographical context and the manner in which it shapes the country's
diverse climatic patterns.
GEOGRAPHICAL
CONTEXT
TROPICAL DESIGN
 Geographic
The Philippines is an archipelago that
comprises 7,641 islands, and with a
total land area of 300,000 square
kilometers (115,831 sq mi), it is the
world's fifth largest island country.
The eleven largest islands contain 95%
of the total land area. The largest of
these islands is Luzon at about 105,000
square kilometers (40,541 sq mi).
 Geographic
The next largest island is Mindanao at
about 95,000 square kilometers
(36,680 sq mi). The archipelago is
around 800 kilometers (500 mi) from
the Asian mainland and is located
between Taiwan and Borneo.
 Archipelago
The Philippine archipelago is divided into three
Island groups: Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.
The Luzon islands include Luzon itself,
Palawan, Mindoro, Marinduque, Masbate,
Romblon, Catanduanes, Batanes, and Polillo. The
Visayas is a group of islands in the central
Philippines, the largest of which are: Panay,
Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, Siquijor,
Biliran, and Guimaras. The Mindanao islands
include Mindanao itself, Dinagat, Siargao,
Camiguin, Samal, plus the Sulu Archipelago,
composed primarily of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-
Tawi.
 Location
The Philippines lies between 4°23' and
21° North (N) latitude and between 116°
and 127° East (E) longitude, located near
the equator, in the western Pacific
Ocean.
CLIMATE
CLASSIFICATION
TROPICAL DESIGN
Tropical Climate
The Climate of the Philippines is
tropical and maritime. It is
characterized by relatively high
temperature, high humidity and
abundant rainfall. It is similar in many
respects to the climate of the
countries of Central America.
 GENERAL CLIMATE CLASSIFICATION

TROPICAL TROPICAL TROPICAL

RAINFOREST MONSOON SAVANNA
Tropical
Rainforest (Af)
The tropical rainforest is a hot, moist
biome where it rains all year long. It is
known for its dense canopies of
vegetation that form three different
layers. The top layer or canopy
contains giant trees that grow to
heights of 75 m (about 250 ft) or more.
Tropical
Rainforest (Af)
The canopy of Philippine rainforests
is a kaleidoscope of colors, with a
diverse range of plant species
coexisting in an intricate dance of life.
Towering dipterocarp trees, ferns,
mosses, and orchids form layers of
foliage, adding to the stunning variety.
 Tropical Monsoon
An area of tropical monsoon climate
(occasionally known as a sub-equatorial,
tropical wet climate or a tropical monsoon and
trade-wind littoral climate) is a tropical climate
subtype that corresponds to the Köppen climate
classification category Am. Tropical monsoon
climates have monthly mean temperatures
above 18 °C (64 °F) in every month of the year
and a dry season. The tropical monsoon climate
is the intermediate climate between the wet Af
(or tropical rainforest climate) and the drier Aw
(or tropical savanna climate).
 Tropical Monsoon
The Philippine Tropical Monsoon (Am) climate
is characterized by distinct wet and dry
seasons, influenced by the country's exposure to
the seasonal wind patterns known as
monsoons. Regions like western Luzon,
Mindoro, Visayas, and parts of Mindanao
experience this climate. During the wet season,
these areas receive abundant rainfall, often
accompanied by typhoons, which significantly
impact agriculture, infrastructure, and daily
activities. In contrast, the dry season sees
minimal rainfall, which is ideal for tourism and
certain agricultural practices.
TYPE OF MONSOON IN THE PHILIPPINE

NORTHEAST SOUTHWEST
MONSOON MONSOON
 Habagat
Habagat refers to the season dominated by the
trade winds, which are experienced in the
Philippines from the month of June until
September or October. The habagat season is
characterized by hot and humid weather,
frequent heavy rainfall, and a prevailing wind
from the western parts.
 Amihan
Amihan refers to the season dominated
by the trade winds, which are
experienced in the Philippines as a cool
northeast wind. It is characterized by
moderate temperatures, little or no
rainfall in the central and western part of
Luzon and Visayas, and a prevailing wind
from the east. On the east coast of Luzon it
brings drizzling rainfall and squalls. The
effect on Mindanao is relatively less than
in the northern part of the country.
Tropical
savanna
The Philippine Tropical Savanna (Aw)
climate is characterized by a
pronounced dry season and a shorter,
concentrated wet season. This climate
type is typically found in areas with
more distinct seasonal variations, such
as parts of Mindanao and some
interior or lowland regions of the
country.
RAINFALL
PATTERNS
TROPICAL DESIGN
Typhoon Season
The typhoon season in the Philippines typically spans from June to
November, peaking between July and October. During this period, the
country experiences numerous tropical cyclones, with an average of 20
typhoons entering its area of responsibility each year. Of these, about 5 to 7
make landfall, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and sometimes
devastating storm surges. The Philippines’ location in the Pacific Ocean,
along the Typhoon Belt, makes it highly susceptible to these storms, which
originate from the western Pacific. Typhoons can cause widespread
flooding, landslides, and significant damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and
homes, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas.
Typhoon Season
The eastern and northern parts of the country, such as the Bicol Region,
Samar, and Cagayan Valley, are most frequently hit. Government agencies,
such as PAGASA, monitor these weather disturbances closely to issue
warnings and help mitigate the impacts of these potentially catastrophic
events. Typhoon season also plays a vital role in replenishing water sources
but poses significant risks to the economy and human safety.
Regional Variations:

In the context of the Philippine typhoon season, the western and eastern regions of
the country experience different impacts due to their geographical location and
exposure to weather systems.:
Western regions (e.g., Ilocos, Palawan) have more distinct dry and wet seasons.
Eastern regions (e.g., Bicol, Eastern Visayas) experience more consistent rainfall.
 Eastern Region:
The eastern parts of the Philippines, particularly areas like Samar, Leyte, the Bicol Region,
and Eastern Visayas, are the first to feel the brunt of typhoons as they enter the Philippine
Area of Responsibility (PAR) from the Pacific Ocean. These regions are highly exposed
because typhoons generally approach the country from the east. As a result, the eastern
region experiences:
Frequent landfall: Most typhoons make landfall here, bringing torrential rains, storm
surges, and strong winds.
Prolonged rains: Continuous rains over these areas often cause flash floods and
landslides, especially in mountainous regions like the Bicol area.
Vulnerability to flooding: Coastal towns and low-lying areas in the east are highly
susceptible to storm surges and flooding, making them more vulnerable to natural
disasters during typhoon season.
 Western Region:
The western regions of the Philippines, including areas like Ilocos, Palawan, and parts of
Western Visayas, are somewhat shielded from the initial impact of typhoons by the
central mountain ranges and landmasses of Luzon and the Visayas. However, they still
experience significant weather effects, such as:
Heavy rainfall: As typhoons move westward across the archipelago, they often bring
heavy rains, though winds tend to weaken after crossing the central mountains.
Flooding risk: Although the western region is less exposed to storm surges compared
to the east, it is still at risk of flooding, especially in urban areas with poor drainage
systems.
Shorter duration of storms: Typhoons often weaken by the time they reach the
western areas, leading to shorter periods of strong winds and heavy rain, but the
regions can still suffer from secondary effects like landslides and river overflows.
FACTORS
INFLUENCING
CLIMATE
TROPICAL DESIGN
Factors Influencing Climate
The climate of the Philippines is shaped by a variety of natural factors that
interact to produce its distinct tropical patterns. These include the country’s
geographical location near the equator, which ensures warm temperatures
year-round, and its proximity to large bodies of water, like the Pacific
Ocean and South China Sea, which moderate temperatures and influence
rainfall, Which are:
Monsoons: Influence the seasonal changes.
Typhoons: Regular occurrences, with an average of 20 typhoons a year.
Topography: Mountain ranges like the Sierra Madre provide protection
against storms, while low-lying areas are more prone to flooding.
Global Phenomena.
 Typhoon
Typhoon is defined as a tropical cyclone with the
maximum wind of 34 knots or higher. A tropical
cyclone with the maximum wind of less than 34
knots is called a tropical depression. Difference
between two types of tropical cyclones are just if the
maximum wind is less than or above the threshold of
34 knots. A typhoon characterize with a giant, rotating
storm that brings wind, rain, and destruction.
Hurricanes and typhoons are both kinds of tropical
cyclones.
 Topography
Is a detailed description or representation on
a map of the natural and artificial features of
an area. The topography is highly diverse,
with most mountain ranges oriented roughly
north to south. Three ranges traverse Luzon,
and two cross Mindanao, along which Mt.
Apo, the country's highest peak, rises to a
height of 2954 m. The islands are generally
bounded by narrow coastal plains (Luna,
1965).
Global Phenomena
It is the process of amalgamation of
influences from economies, society,
and cultures from around the world.
This process of growing and
expanding exists throughout the
entire world. There were 2 classified
global phenomena that is recorded
from the philippine, which were:
El Niño (droughts)
La Niña (heavy rainfall and
flooding).
REGIONAL
CLIMATE ZONES
TROPICAL DESIGN
Regional Climate Zones
The Philippines, despite its relatively small land area,
exhibits a wide range of climate patterns due to its
complex geography and location within the tropics.
The country is divided into four distinct regional
climate zones, each characterized by unique patterns
of rainfall distribution and seasonal variation. These
zones are shaped by factors such as prevailing winds,
mountain ranges, and proximity to large bodies of
water. Understanding the differences between these
climate zones is essential for planning in agriculture,
infrastructure, and disaster management, as each
region faces varying weather conditions throughout
the year.
 Regional Climate Zones
There are four recognized climate types in the Philippines, and they are based
on the distribution of rainfall (See the Philippine Climate Map at the top). They
are described as follows:
Type I: Two pronounced seasons: dry from November to April and wet
during the rest of the year.
Type II: No dry season with a pronounced rainfall from November to
January.
Type III: Seasons are not very pronounced, relatively dry from November
to April, and wet during the rest of the year.
Type IV: Rainfall is more or less evenly distributed throughout the year.
IMPACT OF
CLIMATE ON
DESIGN
TROPICAL DESIGN
Impact of Climate on Design

The climate plays a crucial role in shaping the built environment, especially
in tropical regions like the Philippines, where architects must account for
high temperatures, humidity, heavy rainfall, and seasonal typhoons.
Designing structures in such a climate goes beyond aesthetics—it involves
strategic planning to ensure comfort, durability, and sustainability. By
understanding the nuances of the local climate, architects can create
designs that respond effectively to environmental challenges, reduce
energy consumption, and enhance the well-being of occupants.
Impact of Climate on Design

in tropical design, key considerations include natural ventilation to promote

cooling, the selection of materials that can withstand humidity and moisture,
and the implementation of shading and insulation to protect against the sun’s
intense heat. Furthermore, building resilience against extreme weather
events, such as typhoons and flooding, is essential for safety and long-term
sustainability. Through these climate-responsive strategies, architecture in
tropical regions can harmonize with the environment while improving the
quality of life for the people it serves.
HIGH RAINFALL CONSIDERATIONS

ROOF DESIGN DRAINAGE

SYSTEMS
 Roof Design
In regions with high rainfall, such as the
Philippines, roof design plays a critical role
in ensuring the durability and functionality
of a building. Poorly designed roofs can
lead to several problems, particularly in
tropical areas where heavy rains are
frequent. Some common impacts and
challenges include:
Roof Design problem during High Rain fall
Water Accumulation and Leakage
Flat or improperly sloped roofs may cause water to pool, leading to
leaks and structural damage over time.
Insufficient drainage systems can exacerbate this problem, allowing
water to stagnate and eventually penetrate the roof's surface.

Roof Collapse
Heavy rainfall combined with poor roof materials or design can cause
significant stress on the roof structure. In extreme cases, water
accumulation may lead to the collapse of the roof if it's not strong
enough to bear the load.
Roof Design problem during High Rain fall
Mold, Mildew, and Rot
Constant exposure to moisture can cause mold and mildew to form,
especially in materials like wood. Over time, this can lead to the decay of
roof components, creating health risks and costly repairs.

Wind-Driven Rain Intrusion

During storms, high winds can drive rainwater into small cracks, gaps, or
improperly sealed joints, leading to moisture penetration inside the building,
particularly under the roof or through the walls.
Roof Design problem during High Rain fall
Poor Drainage
Inadequate or clogged gutter systems may lead to improper water runoff,
causing flooding near the foundation or structural damage to walls and
ceilings.
Eaves or gutters that are too small or improperly installed can overflow,
directing water into the building rather than away from it.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
The combination of heavy rainfall and fluctuating temperatures may cause
roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks or deterioration
over time, which can further allow water infiltration.
Drainage Systems
In the Philippines, poor drainage systems are
a significant issue, especially during the rainy
season and typhoons. Inadequate drainage
infrastructure leads to various problems that
affect public health, safety, and the
environment. Below are key problems
associated with poor drainage systems in the
country:
poor Drainage System during High Rain fall
Flooding
Urban Flooding: In cities like Metro Manila, poor drainage systems are a
leading cause of urban flooding. During heavy rainfall, water accumulates in
streets and low-lying areas due to blocked or insufficient drainage channels.
Waterlogged Communities: Inadequate drainage infrastructure in rural and
coastal areas can leave neighborhoods submerged for days, disrupting daily
activities and damaging homes and infrastructure.
Damage to Property and Infrastructure
Frequent flooding caused by poor drainage systems can lead to the
deterioration of roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure. Prolonged
water exposure weakens foundations, causing cracks and erosion.
poor Drainage System during High Rain fall
Health Hazards
Stagnant water resulting from poor drainage systems becomes breeding
grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, contributing to outbreaks of
diseases such as dengue, malaria, and leptospirosis.
Floodwaters often mix with sewage due to the inadequate separation of
drainage and sewage systems, leading to the contamination of water sources
and increased risk of waterborne diseases like cholera and diarrhea.
Erosion and Landslides
In mountainous and hilly areas, poor drainage can lead to erosion, which
destabilizes the soil and increases the risk of landslides, especially during
typhoons.
ADAPTING TO
CLIMATE
TROPICAL DESIGN
 Adapting to Climate
The Philippines is no stranger to extreme weather events, and adapting to its dynamic
climate is crucial for minimizing the risks posed by natural disasters. Disaster
preparedness plays a key role, with the government, through agencies like the Philippine
Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and the
National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), issuing early
warnings and coordinating evacuation efforts. Communities are trained in disaster
response and resilience-building strategies, such as the construction of typhoon-resistant
homes and the development of flood control systems.

On the agricultural front, farmers are adopting climate-smart practices like crop rotation,
water-efficient irrigation systems, and the use of drought- and flood-resistant crops to
cope with the varying weather conditions. In urban areas, cities are turning to sustainable
urban planning, which includes the development of green infrastructure (parks, urban
forests, rain gardens) to manage stormwater and reduce the urban heat island effect.
 Adapting to Climate

The country's coastal management efforts are also critical in combating sea-level rise and
protecting coastal communities from storm surges. Programs like mangrove reforestation
and the construction of sea walls help buffer the impacts of typhoons and flooding.
Furthermore, the Philippines has been proactive in advocating for global climate action,
participating in international agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and
mitigating the long-term effects of climate change.
Disaster Preparedness
In the Philippines, disaster preparedness is a top
priority due to the country’s vulnerability to
typhoons, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic
activity. The government, led by agencies such
as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Council (NDRRMC), implements a
multi-level approach to disaster preparedness
that includes early warning systems, risk
mapping, and community training.
Early Warning Systems
Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction
(CBDRR)
Evacuation Plans and Infrastructure
Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is critical to adapting to the
Philippines' variable climate and protecting
communities from the adverse effects of
climate change. Various sectors are
integrating sustainable practices into
agriculture, urban planning, and coastal
management to ensure resilience.
 Agriculture Adaptations
Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA): Farmers are adopting techniques that make crops
more resilient to extreme weather. These include planting drought- and flood-
resistant crop varieties, improving water management systems through drip irrigation
and rainwater harvesting, and rotating crops to preserve soil health.
Agroforestry: Combining agriculture with tree planting, agroforestry helps reduce soil
erosion and increases biodiversity, providing better protection against floods and
landslides. Trees also provide shade and help retain moisture in the soil during dry
spells.
Sustainable Livelihood Programs: In areas prone to disasters, farmers are encouraged
to diversify their livelihoods, such as engaging in aquaculture or livestock rearing, to
reduce their dependence on single crops that may be wiped out by typhoons or
droughts.
 Urban Planning Adaptations
Green Infrastructure: Urban areas are incorporating green spaces like parks, urban
forests, and green roofs that help absorb rainwater and reduce flooding. Cities are also
building rain gardens and bioswales to manage stormwater naturally, preventing
runoff and reducing the burden on drainage systems.
Resilient Building Codes: Building standards are evolving to withstand natural disasters,
with newer structures designed to be more resistant to typhoons, floods, and
earthquakes. This includes the use of stronger materials, elevated structures in flood-
prone areas, and improved drainage systems in urban developments.
Smart City Designs: Some cities are integrating smart technologies to monitor weather
conditions, control flooding, and manage traffic during emergencies. These urban
designs aim to reduce the environmental impact and increase the city's ability to
withstand extreme weather.
 Coastal Management Adaptations
Mangrove Reforestation: Mangroves act as natural buffers against storm surges and
coastal erosion. Coastal communities have been involved in mangrove replanting
projects, which help protect shorelines and provide habitats for marine life. Mangroves
are particularly effective in absorbing wave energy during typhoons.
Artificial Reefs and Coastal Barriers: In areas prone to erosion and flooding, artificial
reefs and sea walls are constructed to protect against rising sea levels and storm
surges. Reefs slow down waves, while barriers provide a physical block to flooding.
Sustainable Fishing Practices: Coastal communities are encouraged to adopt sustainable
fishing methods, like seasonal fishing bans and marine protected areas, to prevent
overfishing and ensure long-term food security. This helps maintain the health of
marine ecosystems, which are crucial for supporting coastal biodiversity and
livelihoods.
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