First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on Tuesday joined the inspection of the ongoing Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) urban renewal and development project in the Intramuros area.

Joined by Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar and Intramuros administration head Joan Padilla, the First Lady walked through the PBBM project’s Phase 1C portion that connects Intramuros to the showcase area behind the Manila Central Post Office.

During the inspection, Acuzar provided the First Lady with updates on the project’s progress and highlighted key features of the area.

The phase includes a view deck atop proposed commercial shops. The design of these shops draws inspiration from the world-renowned and historic Intramuros wall. Walk paths and bike lanes have also been incorporated to enhance the picturesque view.

Acuzar expressed his appreciation for the First Couple’s staunch support in rehabilitating the Pasig River.

“Lubos po ang akong pasasalamat sa Unang Ginang Liza Araneta-Marcos at sa Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa kanilang buong suporta sa rehabilitasyon ng Pasig River. Ang pagbisita ng Unang Ginang ay matibay na patunay sa kanyang adbokasiya para sa Ilog Pasig (I am very grateful to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and President Bongbong Marcos for their full support in the rehabilitation of the Pasig River. The First Lady’s visit is strong proof of her advocacy for the Pasig River),” he said.

The First Lady is a well-known advocate for the rehabilitation of the Pasig River. Her vision is to transform it into a people-centered tourist destination akin to the Thames River in London, the Seine in Paris and the Chao Phraya in Thailand.

Earlier this year, the First Couple inaugurated the showcase area of the PBBM project. This public park features a pedestrian-friendly walkway on a concrete platform, complete with water fountains accented by lighting. The sitting areas within the park can also serve as an open-air venue for events. The area became an instant go-to place in Manila.

Acuzar said the PBBM Project goes beyond rehabilitation.

He said it aims to provide renewed hope to residents along the Pasig River and efforts are directed toward maximizing the economic potential of the river through tourism and improved transportation connectivity.

The rehabilitation, he said, will be people-centered and functional to promote sustainability and walkable urban areas for the citizens and tourists.

As the head of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development, Acuzar leads the team of the PBBM project.

He reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the cultural and heritage value of Intramuros.

“Kasama din sa bilin ni First Lady ay pangalagaan ang cultural and heritage value of Intramuros. Kaya naman patuloy na nakikipag-ugnayan ang IAC-PRUD sa Intramuros Administration at National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Tuluy-tuloy lamang po ang trabaho upang sama-sama nating abutin ang pangarap para buhayin muli ang Ilog Pasig (Also included in the order of the First Lady is to preserve the cultural and heritage value of Intramuros. That’s why IAC-PRUD [Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development] continues to communicate with the Intramuros Administration and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. The work is continuous so that together we can achieve the dream of reviving the Pasig River,” Acuzar said.

On July 25, 2023, President Marcos issued Executive Order 35, mandating the “rehabilitation of the Pasig River to its historically pristine condition conducive to transport, recreation, and tourism.”

The First Lady was the first to throw her full commitment to the project. (PNA)