DHSUD vows intensified Pasig River revitalization

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) pledged Sunday to continue revitalizing the Pasig River, citing the positive response to the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) Project.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., during the inauguration of the PBBM Project’s Phase 3 on Thursday, acknowledged the popularity of the Pasig River esplanade in Manila and praised the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development, led by DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, for transforming the area.

“I was happy and a little surprised to know that the esplanade has become an instant hit among Gen Zs and some Gen Alphas who use it as a backdrop for IG stories and for TikTok,” the President said.

Beyond social media, the revitalized riverbanks have become spaces for recreation, community engagement, and economic activity, with small businesses catering to students, tourists, and families.

“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 said.

To recall, the national government launched Phase 3 of the rehabilitation initiative on Thursday, stressing the river’s role in culture, commerce and environmental preservation.

“This river has served Manila as a lifeblood long before our generation was conceived,” the President said, recalling its significance in Dr. Jose Rizal’s novels.

Phase 3 includes improvements to enhance public access. At Plaza Mexico, a closed roadway has been converted into a larger open space. The Maestranza Esplanade now features an outdoor gallery, bike lanes, and walkways. The moat view at Fort Santiago is illuminated with evening lights.

The project also improves connectivity between Intramuros, the Manila Central Post Office and Binondo.

Meantime, Acuzar reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the project, thanking the President and First Lady for their support.

The Pasig River Showcase Area Esplanade behind the Manila Central Post Office and its extension to Plaza Mexico were inaugurated in January and June last year.