A river runs through it

Last Sunday, 19 October, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the inauguration of Phase IV of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) Project, marking another milestone in the ongoing transformation of Manila’s historic riverfront.

The Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD), chaired by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Pasig River Rehabilitation (OPAPRR), officially launched the Phase IV of the Pasig River Esplanade, which connects the Manila Central Post Office to Arroceros Forest Park along the riverbank. Despite the drizzle here and there (umbrellas were on standby), the well- attended event was graced by some of the country’s business leaders, politicians, government officials and members of the press.

The visionary project of the First Lady spotlights the administration’s commitment to transform the 25-kilometer stretch of the river into a vibrant public space integrating cultural preservation, pedestrian accessibility and economic revitalization — a notable effort that gives importance and value to Manila’s glorious past, bringing them back to life.

Phase IV further amplifies connectivity along the Pasig River, linking Arroceros Forest Park to Quiapo, Metropolitan Theater and Manila City Hall.

The new stretch is a sight to behold — featuring pedestrian promenades, bike lanes, viewing decks, kiosks and transition bridges, which were designed to enhance mobility, encourage public engagement and close the gap between earlier segments of the esplanade that extend toward Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Plaza Mexico, Liwasang Bonifacio and MacArthur Park.

The Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli project highlights Manila’s cultural and historical landmarks by offering spectacular views and attractions of Arroceros Forest Park, the Metropolitan Theater, MacArthur Bridge and Quezon Bridge. Insightfully, mapping our historical landmarks and linking them together signals a favorable and impactful change in the old Manila landscape.

Earlier phases revitalized areas around Intramuros, Plaza México and the Post Office. In addition, it hopefully opens more possibilities for economic opportunities, most especially for people in the area. In these trying times, it gives a sense of optimism for a potentially bright future that fortunately follows through.