President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos led the inauguration of Phase III of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) project.

Situated along the Pasig River on the side of Intramuros, Phase III of the project stretches 600 meters of walkway from Plaza Mexico, passing through Maestranza Esplanade, and ending at Fort Santiago.

According to Marcos, this project symbolizes unity while honoring the past and embracing progress.

Like its previous phases, the PBBM project encourages physical activities while enjoying the scenery, such as running, biking, jogging, and other activities.

“We have created a pedestrian-friendly heritage corridor. One can jog, walk, or bike from Intramuros to Manila Central Post Office, across the historic and beautiful Jones Bridge, into the equally historic and cultural Binondo area,” he said.

He added that the new spaces along the Pasig River have also served as areas for creativity, commerce, and community.

“Following the opening of phases one and two last year, people have set up various shops along the esplanade to cater to students, to couples, to tourists, to friends, and families who have come to enjoy the beauty of Pasig River,” he noted.

The President also remarked that he had heard that the Pasig River Esplanade has served as a romantic venue for lovebirds in the country.

“I've been looking for that no one can tell me how many people have proposed in the walkway, and have become betrothed, or have eventually gotten married. I heard that many have proposed here because this venue is so romantic,” he said.

Marcos said he is looking forward to the stories that the Pasig River Esplanade will witness.

“I am thrilled to see the social and economic development of a fully revitalized Pasig River, and what it will mean for Metro Manila once again. Our mission is simple, but it is difficult,” he added.

He said the administration’s goal is to revitalize the Pasig River and return it to a pristine state, making it a vibrant waterway once again.

Earlier, in a walking briefing, Department of Human Settlements Director Mark Sambar said that the agency is looking into incorporating other designs to complement other parts of the Pasig River.

It is also in talks with other local government units that share the Pasig River, such as Makati City, Taguig City, and Pasig City.

According to Sambar, the project did not proceed without hitches, as the Intramuros part of the project was impassable and filled with Informal Settler Families (ISF) who have relocated under the DHSUD's 4PH or Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing program.

Meanwhile, Marcos also lauded the First Lady for her invaluable contributions to the project. He added that he has promised his support for it.

“The First Lady Liza and I are keeping an eye on the progress of this vital project. I am certain that her interest in history and culture has enriched this initiative, ensuring that the Pasig River becomes integral to our collective identity,” he said.