In the heart of Manila, where the city's pulse beats strongest, lies a historic waterway that has long been a symbol of both prosperity and neglect.
The Pasig River, once a vital artery of trade and transportation, fell into disrepair over the years, choked by pollution and encroached upon by urban development. However, a glimmer of hope now shines upon its waters with the inauguration of the Pasig River Esplanade, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate this iconic river.
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Pasig River Esplanade
The Pasig River Esplanade, unveiled on January 17, 2024 with much fanfare, represents the first tangible progress of the ambitious Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli project. Spanning 500 meters along the riverbank adjacent to the Central Post Office and the Jones Bridge in Manila, this initial phase serves as a showcase of what's to come for the entire 25-kilometer stretch of the Pasig River.
Designed in a Neo-Classical style to harmonize with the surrounding architecture, the Esplanade is more than just a beautification project—it's a symbol of renewal and revitalization. With boats gently cruising along the river, fireworks illuminating the night sky, and people strolling along the walkways, the inauguration ceremony captured the imagination of a city eager for positive change.
Behind this transformation lies the concerted efforts of various government agencies under the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PURD). Led by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), this council comprises 15 entities, including the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), among others.
Together with urban designer William Ti, Alcazaren envisions a series of interconnected segments along the riverbank, each offering a blend of recreational spaces, greenery, and commercial amenities.
Despite the optimism surrounding the Pasig River Esplanade, formidable challenges lie ahead. The lack of a clear easement along the riverbank and the presence of informal settlers pose significant obstacles to the project's completion. Moreover, the scale of the rehabilitation effort necessitates a long-term commitment from both government and private stakeholders.
Yet, history has shown that progress is possible. Over the years, various administrations have launched rehabilitation initiatives for the Pasig River, each leaving its mark on Manila's waterway. From free ferries to regular clean-up drives, these efforts, though incremental, have contributed to the gradual restoration of the river's health and vitality.
ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA
Klook.comAs the Pasig River Esplanade stands as a beacon of renewal, it serves as a reminder of the potential that lies within our urban waterways. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Esplanade embodies the collective vision of a city reclaiming its natural heritage and embracing a more sustainable future.
As the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli project unfolds, it will require continued collaboration, innovation, and perseverance. Yet, with each step forward, Manila moves closer to realizing the full potential of its historic river—a source of pride, prosperity, and inspiration for generations to come.
Some other attractions to see and things to do near Pasig River Esplanade:
- Walk around Intramuros (Day Tour)
- Food crawl in Binondo
- Visit the Dolomite Beach in Manila Bay
- Have fun at Star City
- Have a relaxing staycation at SMDC Blue Residences
- Go shopping in Divisoria
WHERE TO STAY NEAR PASIG RIVER ESPLANADE
Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book nearby Rizal Park:
- Octagon Mansion Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Bayview Park Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Go Hotels Ermita - Check Rates and Availability!
- City Garden Suites Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Pearl Manila Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Sunny Bay Suites - Check Rates and Availability!
ALSO IN MANILA
- MANILA TRAVEL GUIDE: Tourist Spots, Things To Do, Where To Eat and Where to Stay
- BINONDO FOOD CRAWL: DIY Food Trip Guide to Manila Chinatown, the oldest in the world (Map & Budget)
- RIZAL PARK: Guide to Luneta, the Largest Urban Park in Manila, Philippines (Attractions to See & Things to Do)
- MANILA OCEAN PARK: Attractions Map Guide, Activities & How to get Discounted Pass Online Tickets
- DOLOMITE BEACH: Everything you need to know about this new attraction at Manila Baywalk (Operating Hours, Directions & FAQs)
- INTRAMUROS GUIDE: Historic Walled City in Manila (What to See & to Do)
- ARROCEROS FOREST PARK: Guide to the Last Lung of Manila (Description, History and Schedule)
- The historical Jones Bridge in Manila got a new look
- LRT-1 Guide (Stations, Schedule, Fare Matrix)
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.
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