THE government mulls enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Pasig River Esplanade as part of a rehabilitation project initiated by President Marcos.
This developed as members of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD) convened on Tuesday to discuss updates on the implementation of the rehabilitation plan.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chariman Romando Artes, concurrent vice chairman of the IAC-PRUD, noted that significant progress has been made, but there was still much to be done to further improve the Pasig River.
He thanked the President and First Lady Liza Marcos for their leadership in the IAC PRUD and the Pasig “Bigyang Buhay Muli” project.
The council meeting, led by IAC PRUD Alternate chairman Mark Aeron Sambar, was attended by representatives from various partner-agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and the Philippine Coast Guard.
The Pasig River Esplanade is projected to be 25 kilometers long, spanning the cities of Manila, Mandaluyong, Makati, Pasig, and Taguig, following the total stretch of the river. The first phase of the project, located behind the Manila Post Office, opened to the public in February.
The open section, stretching from Jones Bridge to the Post Office, featured benches for visitors to rest after a long walk. The project is expected to cover all five cities and will include jogging paths, bike lanes, and areas for commercial activities, such as retail stores and cafes. The section featuring fountains and lights is open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., while visitors can explore the area at any time.
President Marcos signed Executive Order 35, establishing the IAC-PRUD, which is primarily tasked with facilitating and ensuring the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system. This initiative aims to provide alternative transportation, create economic opportunities, and enhance tourism activities.
Historically, the Pasig River has been an important transportation route and water source in Metro Manila, but has been declared severely polluted.
