The local government of Cainta has launched a riverside esplanade project along the Manggahan River, a move designed to provide public recreational space while preventing the growth of informal settlements.
Mayor Keith Nieto said the initiative was prompted by the rapid increase of houses appearing on the dry portions of the riverbank during the summer months. By constructing a dike and a permanent promenade, the city is establishing a clear boundary where structures are prohibited.
“The idea really is to prevent the proliferation of the informal settlers,” Nieto said in a statement. “We put Japanese bamboos so that they cannot move further.”
The current phase of the esplanade spans three kilometers along East Bank Road. Nieto said a similar project is planned for the West Bank, which would create a continuous seven-kilometer walking zone. The finished park will feature jogging paths, bike lanes, a five-meter easement, and playgrounds.
Nieto stressed that the project is funded entirely by the local government unit without the use of national funds. To enhance the area, the city is installing recycled benches and plans to add balusters and lighting across the entire stretch for nighttime safety.
He also cited that the project was inspired by promenades he visited in Taiwan that successfully integrated riverside parks with nearby residential communities.
While the park is primarily for recreation, Nieto said the city may allow strictly regulated food kiosks in the future. “The first beneficiary, maybe, will be the people living there as an added livelihood,” he said.
A local police outpost has already been established in the area to maintain peace and order. Currently, residents are using the completed sections for jogging, physical activities for senior citizens, and family gatherings.