President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed excitement as he led the inauguration of Phase 3 of the Pasig River Esplanade project on Thursday in Intramuros, highlighting its impact on Metro Manila’s social and economic landscape.
Joined by First Lady Liza Marcos and government officials, Marcos unveiled the latest phase of the “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM)” initiative, which aims to restore the historic river by developing an esplanade for public use. The project seeks to transform the 25-km waterway into a vibrant space for culture, mobility, and economic growth.
In a PNA report, Marcos noted the growing popularity of the esplanade, especially among younger generations who use it as a scenic backdrop for social media. He emphasized that the ongoing revitalization will not only preserve heritage sites but also foster community engagement.
Phase 3 includes the rehabilitation of Plaza Mexico, Maestranza, and Fort Santiago, adding 2,000 square meters of open space for public gatherings and events. The President described the initiative as more than just an infrastructure project, calling it a symbol of unity between history and progress.
Previous phases of the project have already encouraged businesses to set up along the esplanade, with Phase 1 and 2 attracting visitors since their launch in 2023 and mid-2024. Marcos reaffirmed his commitment to fully restoring Pasig River, calling it a challenging but essential mission for Metro Manila’s future.
