(Photo source: Bagong Pilipinas)

MANILA (PIA) -- Filipinos can expect a revitalized Pasig River, teeming with economic opportunities, recreational avenues, and improved transportation links, as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially inaugurated the project's showcase area in Manila, Wednesday. 

Dubbed "Pasig Bigyan Buhay Muli (Renewed Life for Pasig)," the ambitious Pasig River Urban Development project promises to breathe new life into the once-polluted waterway, transforming it into a vibrant artery for the Manila metropolis.

More than just beautification, the project focuses on tangible benefits for residents:

• Safe and accessible walkways and bikeways -- Encouraging healthy commutes and leisure activities along the riverbanks.

• Green corridors and public parks -- Providing much-needed green spaces for communities, improving air quality and fostering a sense of well-being.

• String of parks and recreational amenities -- Offering family-friendly spaces for relaxation, exercise, and community gatherings.

• Revitalized river transportation -- Deploying additional ferryboats and stations to create a convenient and scenic public transit option.

• Economic hubs and commercial spaces -- Spurring job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities for Filipinos, drawing inspiration from successful riverside developments in cities like London, Bangkok, and Paris.

• Relocation of informal settlers -- The Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD), overseeing the project, has plans for safe and dignified relocation of families currently residing along the riverbanks.

• Funding and transparency -- The P18 billion project will be funded through donations, eliminating the burden on taxpayers. Clear communication and community engagement will be crucial to ensure transparency and address concerns throughout the development process.

President Marcos' vision

"We are here to consecrate ourselves to the mission of transforming the Pasig River to what it is supposed to be—a living river of multiple benefits for the multitude," said Marcos, emphasizing the project's focus on improving the lives of ordinary Filipinos. He envisions the revitalized Pasig River as a catalyst for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and a renewed sense of community pride for Metro Manila residents.

Looking ahead

The initial phase of the project, spanning almost 500 meters behind the Manila Central Post Office, serves as a glimpse into the ambitious vision for the entire 25-kilometer stretch of the Pasig River. With a projected completion date within three years, Filipinos can look forward to enjoying the benefits of this transformative project soon.

By prioritizing public spaces, economic opportunities, and sustainable development, the Pasig River Urban Development project promises to be more than just a facelift. It's an investment in the future of Metro Manila, one that empowers Filipinos to reclaim their beloved waterway and reap the benefits of a thriving, connected, and healthy urban environment. (PIA-NCR)