The use of satellite technologies of the earth's surface for mapping land use, such as remote sensing, offers a cost-effective means to acquire multitemporal and multispectral images. The method for remote sensing covers an extensive use and process of images, ground truthing, classification of land cover and land use, and qualitative visual assessment. Another technique in the spatial study of urban poverty is the use of geographic information system (GIS) which allows users to create multiple layers of information. These techniques were employed in studying urban poverty in Metro Manila and in assessing the relocation sites of informal settlers. Suitability of relocation was determined by looking at the impact of natural risks and hazards like floods and earthquakes, and proximity to industrial sites with the aid of geo-information techniques. In furthering the advancement of satellite techniques in development studies, the factors of standardization and operationalization of procedures, use of higher resolution sensors, and integration with geographic information system need to be considered.
