Who Are We?

SMZOTO Incorporated is a federation of 646 urban poor local organizations in twenty eight (28) relocation sites in Metro Manila and nearby areas.

These relocation sites are Dasmarinas, Silang, Bulihan, General Trias, Tanza and GMA, Cavite; Bagong Silang, Tala, Dagat-Dagatan, Camarin, Caloocan City; Dagat-Dagatan Malabon City, Dagat-Dagatan Navotas City. Tondo, Manila; Sapang Palay, Muzon, Towerville, Citrus, Minuyan 5 Gaya-gaya, Grace ville of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, Pandacaqui in Pampanga.

The Organization was founded in 1970 at the Tondo Foreshore Land when residents were to be demolished in favour of an IMF/World Bank Funded project – an international port at the time, this area was the biggest colony of the slum dwellers of informal settlers in Asia.

Such that when it stirred into action, not even the Marcos government could stop the organization from educating, marching and negotiating on the issues of the urban poor on the issue of decent housing for the poor.

Warding off eviction after eviction and rebuilding lives and homes in the relocation sites, ZOTO continues to struggle for a community of economically and politically empowered citizens who are accorded their due dignity, who foster gender equality and democracy and live in a healthy and bountiful environment.

Leaders

Orly B. Gallano

Orly V. Gallano

President

He responsible for guiding its overall vision, mission, and strategic direction. He represents SM-ZOTO in partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders, especially in advocating for urban poor communities and housing rights.

He also oversees the implementation of programs and projects, ensures that community needs are addressed, and leads decision-making processes within the organization. In addition, the president strengthens member participation, coordinates with local leaders, and ensures that the organization remains aligned with its goals of community development, empowerment, and sustainable housing.

 

 

Rodelio S. Ablir

Rodelio S. Ablir

Executive Director

He oversees program implementation, coordinates with partner organizations and government agencies, and ensures that projects related to housing, community development, and urban poor advocacy are effectively carried out.

He also plays a key role in strategic planning, leadership, and community engagement, making sure that the organization’s mission of empowering urban poor communities is consistently achieved.

 

 

 

 

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Lerry Hiterosa

Regional Executive

He responsible for overseeing the organization’s programs and operations within a specific region. This role ensures that SM-ZOTO’s initiatives—such as housing advocacy, community organizing, and social development—are effectively implemented at the regional level.

They coordinate closely with local chapters, community leaders, and partner organizations to address the needs of urban poor communities. The Regional Executive also monitors project progress, provides guidance to field staff, and ensures alignment with the organization’s mission and policies.

 

 

 

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HOW IT ALL BEGAN?

SM-ZOTO Incorporated is a federation of 646 urban poor local organizations in twenty eight (28) relocation sites in Metro Manila and nearby areas.

These relocation sites are Dasmarinas, Silang, Bulihan, General Trias, Tanza and GMA, Cavite; Bagong Silang, Tala, Dagat-Dagatan, Camarin, Caloocan City; Dagat-Dagatan Malabon City, Dagat-Dagatan Navotas City. Tondo, Manila; Sapang Palay, Muzon, Towerville, Citrus, Minuyan 5 Gaya-gaya, Grace ville of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, Pandacaqui in Pampanga.

The Organization was founded in 1970 at the Tondo Foreshore Land when residents were to be demolished in favour of an IMF/World Bank Funded project – an international port. At the time, this area was the biggest colony of the slum dwellers of informal settlers in Asia.

SMZOTO on its third decade continues to carry on its mission of economically and politically empowering the urban poor in the relocation sites through the following:

  • Organizing and strengthening citizenship in the communities
  • Increasing awareness in gender equality
  • Conducting a continuing education and training of leaders, members of the organization and the community
  • Improving the economic condition of the membership and all the citizens
  • Providing health services
  • Providing early education to the children
  • Communicating with the different sectors, organizations, institutions and individuals locally and internationally
  • Forging alliances to advance the welfare of the urban poor.

There are nine (9) Regional Executive Committee Members (5 of them are women) and about 40 staff members for the organization’s programs and services, 28 of them are female.

Today, ZOTO has maintained more than 32,777 members in the 28 relocation sites inhabited.

OUR JOURNEY

Milestones Along the Way

1970
Founding of SM-ZOTO

On October 20, the Zone One Tondo Temporary Organization (ZOTTO) was established to fight mass evictions in Tondo, Manila, which was then the largest slum colony in Asia. The word “Temporary” was soon dropped to reflect the permanence of their struggle, becoming ZOTO.

1970–1975
Rapid Growth

ZOTO grew from 20 member organizations at its inception to 113 local associations by 1975. During this era, it gained fame for mobilizing thousands of residents to negotiate directly with the Marcos government and international funders like the World Bank.

1972–1981
Martial Law Years

Despite the declaration of Martial Law and the subsequent arrest and torture of many of its leaders, ZOTO continued to organize. Its members used human barricades and non-violent protests to resist demolitions.

Late 1970s–1980s
Relocation and Expansion

As members were forcibly relocated from Tondo to various sites outside Manila, the organization evolved into a federation. It established chapters in new relocation areas to continue advocating for land security and basic services.

1990s
Sustainable Development

ZOTO shifted its focus toward sustainable community development, addressing environmental issues and livelihood opportunities for relocatees.

2000s–Present
Regional Federation

ZOTO currently operates as a federation of over 180 urban poor organizations across 14 relocation sites. It has active chapters in Malabon, Caloocan, Cavite, Bulacan, and Pampanga.

Recent Years (2020s)
Present Events

The organization continues to focus on human rights, reproductive health education, and advocacy for decent housing. It remains a visible participant in national social movements and anti-corruption rallies in the Philippines.