by: Jerome Paunan
MANILA, (PIA) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched the third phase of the “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” (PBBM) river restoration project Thursday, February 27, expanding public spaces and creating new pedestrian corridors in Manila’s historic Intramuros district.
The latest development adds 2,000 square meters of open space by closing the road that previously divided Plaza Mexico, creating what officials describe as a “pedestrian-friendly heritage corridor” connecting Intramuros to the Manila Central Post Office and Binondo district.
“This river has served Manila as a lifeblood long before our generation was conceived,” Marcos said during the ceremony at Plaza Mexico. “In its waters, we see reflections of our dreams and our history, and at times, we have to admit, our share of neglect. But we are changing that.”
The project’s third phase features a riverwalk at Fort Santiago, allowing visitors to enter the historic fortress through its Postigo Nuestra Señora de Soledad river gate as an alternative to the main entrance on Sta. Clara Street. The development also includes an esplanade with a gallery walk showcasing local art and historical narratives, along with dedicated bike lanes and walkways.
The initiative, which was postponed last week due to weather conditions, is led by the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).
DHSUD Secretary Jerry Acuzar reported that previous phases of the project have already attracted significant foot traffic, with an estimated 500,000 visitors during the recent Chinese New Year celebrations.
“Our mission is simple but it is difficult: to bring back the river to its pristine state and make it a vibrant waterway once again for life, for culture, and for mobility,” Marcos added.
The event was attended by Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, Cabinet members, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Don Artes, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna, and First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, whom the president credited as “the driving force” behind the restoration efforts.
Following the opening of the project’s first two phases last year, officials noted that various shops have been established along the esplanade, catering to students, tourists, and families. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Photos: Bongbong Marcos Facebook page)
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