The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the San Juan City government inaugurated Tuesday the El Polvorin Linear Park, built around the site of a historic Spanish-era gunpowder depot.

During the event, MMDA acting chair Carlo Dimayuga III said the project was part of the agency’s Adopt-a-Park project that aims to bring “urban renewal.”

“We hope to develop or rehabilitate existing open spaces into functional green parks and recreation areas in partnership with each LGU of Metro Manila,” Dimayuga said.

The park has been landscaped with fountains, koi ponds, green walls, potted plants, other greeneries, and sitting areas.

The park, located at the San Juan Elementary School, was built to commemorate the heroes of the Himagsikan sa (Revolution at) San Juan del Monte, also known as the Battle of Pinaglabanan on August 30, 1896.

During the Spanish era, the Katipuneros led by Andres Bonifacio attacked “El Polvorin”, a gunpowder depot used by the Spanish to store gunpowder for their firearms and artillery.

The battle is considered the first major battle of the Philippine Revolution which led to Philippine independence from Spanish colonizers on June 12, 1898.

Under the Adopt-a-Park project, started by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., the local government is encouraged by the MMDA to propose the location, design, and cost estimate of a park project.

The MMDA, on the other hand, sets the criteria for site selection, provides funding, and implements the project’s construction. (PNA)