Manila: First Lady Liza Marcos announced that efforts to enhance the Pasig River Esplanade are steadily advancing following an inter-agency meeting focused on the planned turnover of kiosks for the walkway.
According to Philippines News Agency, the First Lady shared her optimism in a recent social media update after the meeting held at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros. She highlighted the steady progress being made to make the esplanade more welcoming to the public. "Slowly but surely, things are coming together for the Pasig River Esplanade," Marcos stated.
Marcos mentioned that government agencies deliberated on practical measures to significantly improve the visitor experience. This includes better organization of kiosks, support for local merchants, and ensuring safety and cleanliness along the riverfront. "We met and discussed how the little things can make a big difference, how to make the esplanade more welcoming, more organized and more enjoyable for locals and tourists alike," she added.
The First Lady emphasized the importance of creating a public space that balances livelihood opportunities with accessibility and order, aiming to make the area attractive to both residents and visitors. "From supporting our local merchants to making sure the space feels safe and clean," she said.
The Pasig River Esplanade is part of the administration's broader efforts to rehabilitate the historic waterway and transform it into a viable public and tourism space. Previous phases of the project have concentrated on river cleanup, flood mitigation, and the redevelopment of walkways and open spaces along key sections of the river.
The esplanade is envisioned as a people-centered urban space that promotes cultural activities, tourism, and small businesses, while contributing to the long-term restoration of the Pasig River.
