It’s back-to-school season, and thousands of students have started to hunt for board and lodging space in the crowded National Capital Region.
Here in the Sta. Mesa district of old Manila, there is a complex of dormitories unlike any others seen in this part of the city: Metal container cargo vans that have been converted into compact dormitories — Condorms, or container van dormitories.
The container vans are stacked right next to each other, and one on top of another, in a way that suits the boarding requirements of students and workers who prefer to stay near their schools and places of work.
Jam Burce, the general manager of one such complex, Citihub, in Sta Mesa, explained that the recycled container vans are faster to assemble and quite safe and durable, built to standards and in compliance with the building code. They are conducive to retrofitting into liveable spaces. What’s more, there is no risk of walls or ceilings crashing down in the event of an earthquake, unlike concrete-based conventional structures.
Each 40-footer container van can house up to 22 boarders. And each unit is equipped with amenities like electricity, electric fans or air-conditioners, beds and windows. There are toilets and baths, of course. There is even wifi provision, round the clock security, and laundry area.
Reasonable house rules will be enforced, and most schools, colleges and universities are no more than one ride away.
The first condorm to be opened will be for male boarders. To follow is another one for females.