The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Pasig City government inaugurated the redeveloped Ilaya Buting Linear Park, the third linear park constructed in the city.

During Thursday’s simple rites in Barangay Buting, MMDA chairperson Romando Artes said the project was made possible through coordination between the national government and the Pasig local government unit.

Artes appealed to residents to treat the redeveloped park as their own and maintain its cleanliness, promising that the agency would add more plants and construct a vertical garden or greenhouse for the community.

Pasig City Mayor Victor Ma. Regis Sotto thanked the MMDA for the project, saying it will help improve the city’s lack of open and green spaces.

“We lack playgrounds and parks, and we are always grateful for projects like these where the children and the elderly can play and gather together safely,” Sotto said.

He agreed with Artes that the park should not be viewed as belonging to the government, the MMDA, or the local government unit, and similarly urged Barangay Buting residents to take active care of the new facility.

The park is equipped with playground and exercise equipment, a basketball court, public comfort rooms, and lighting elements, making it a community green space for relaxing, fellowship, and rest.

The project was built under the MMDA’s Green Green Green Program, funded through the Local Government Support Fund, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide more green and open spaces for Filipinos, especially in Metro Manila. (PNA)