The transformation of leftover spaces in the residential zones of Dasmariñas City into pocket parks represents a practical and sustainable urban intervention. Despite often appearing neglected, these parks still attract visitors; hence, this study’s objective was to explore why these pocket parks continue to be visited, despite their current condition. This study explored and analyzed the specific environmental, psychological, and social factors that play crucial roles in influencing place attachment among low-income families who visit the pocket parks. Understanding these factors within a localized context will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of place attachment. The method of this study employed a convergent mixed-method process of direct and naturalistic observation as well as a 5-point Likert scale survey of 75 adult respondents. The findings, analyzed using an ANOVA test, revealed significant differences in place attachment among the three pocket parks. Notably, factors such as a sense of pride, environmental quality, and community engagement received the highest ratings from respondents. Thus, the combined findings show that the pocket parks play a significant role in fostering socialization and facilitating community-oriented activities. Individuals from different age groups visit pocket parks for various reasons, demonstrating that the community’s use of these spaces is not necessarily dependent on their physical condition. Instead, the level of attachment formed is influenced by the activities for which the park is designed.
Author Contributions
Conceptualization, Z.A.N. and G.F.; methodology, Z.A.N.; software, Z.A.N.; validation, Z.A.N., G.F.; formal analysis, G.F.; investigation, Z.A.N.; resources, Z.A.N.; data curation, Z.A.N.; writing—original draft preparation, Z.A.N.; writing—review and editing, G.F.; visualization, Z.A.N.; supervision, G.F.; project administration, Z.A.N.; funding acquisition, Z.A.N. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding
This research received no external funding.
Institutional Review Board Statement
Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement
Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.
Data Availability Statement
The original contributions presented in this study are included in the article. Further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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