First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos recently led the ceremonial turnover of newly constructed vendor kiosks at the Pasig River Esplanade, providing additional commercial spaces for small businesses along the historic waterway.

The project is part of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) initiative, a government program aimed at transforming the 25-kilometer riverfront into a hub for culture, leisure, and tourism.

During the ceremony, 47 kiosks and 18 chambers hosting 22 businesses were formally handed over to vendors. Once completed, the 80 kiosks along the riverwalk will accommodate food stalls, grooming and salon services, novelty and flower shops, and outlets for local crafts.

Constructed from wood and steel, the kiosks measure 2x2 feet and 2x3 feet, replacing temporary pop-up tents. The new structures provide vendors with safer, more durable, and organized commercial spaces.

The kiosks are located along the Intramuros stretch of the esplanade, complementing the completed riverbank walkway from Fort Santiago to Jones Bridge. They are expected to serve thousands of visitors daily.

The project is led by the Office of the First Lady, in coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Rehabilitation, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Intramuros Administration, with technical support from Megaworld Corporation during the initial phase of operations.

To maintain cleanliness, the esplanade enforces a “clean-as-you-go” policy with proper waste segregation and disposal. 

The Pasig River Esplanade is open daily, with commercial operations from 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight.