Iya Lorainne Baring

EcoBridges: Transforming Footbridges, Changing Lives

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In Metro Manila, walking has often been described as a survival challenge and a test of stamina rather than a pleasurable experience. Maneuvering through crowded roads, avoiding vehicles, and facing the tropical heat are all aspects of everyday life for numerous urban residents. Even an act as apparently straightforward as crossing the street can resemble an obstacle course due to the city’s often-overlooked pedestrian infrastructure. For many years, the vision of a pedestrian-friendly, commuter-accessible Metro Manila has appeared merely as a fantasy.Nonetheless, what appears to be an improbable dream is gradually taking shape through the joint efforts of private companies and local authorities. Leading this change is Ecobridges Ads Inc., a firm dedicated to changing the story of urban mobility by transforming Metro Manila’s neglected and rundown footbridges into safe, clean, and welcoming routes.Beyond merely being a company that offers billboard advertising space, Ecobridges has discovered a method to engage in the everyday experiences of commuters. Ecobridges goes beyond just rehabilitating and building footbridges—they make certain that each stage of the process aligns with their goal of creating accessible, walkable cities. Most importantly, these initiatives are fully financed by the company’s advertising income from the ads on the footbridge, ensuring that no taxpayer money is utilized for their building or upkeep.This unique approach allows local governments to prioritize other essential services without jeopardizing the provision of much-needed pedestrian infrastructure. Every footbridge is strategically planned based on areas of greatest need, ensuring maximum impact. Through this initiative, Ecobridges demonstrates that private companies can drive meaningful change without burdening taxpayers.“Every footbridge we donate and maintain is our way of giving back to the community,” said Atty. Aquino Ambray, Director of Ecobridges. “Our goal is to show that cities can be safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone, one footbridge at a time,” he added.  The outcomes are clear: more secure crossings, illuminated paths, shaded canopies, and continuous security. Ecobridges has transformed previously ignored, graffiti-adorned overpasses into lively, commuter-friendly areas that enhance everyday life.Currently, numerous upgraded footbridges provide an insight into what a pedestrian-friendly city might resemble—where walking is seen not as an option of last resort but as an enjoyable aspect of the travel experience. For daily commuters, these improvements are more than just aesthetic; they are functional and empowering. At last, someone is finally investing in the people’s commute, emphasizing safety, comfort, and respect rather than just the basic necessity of getting from point A to point B.“Ecobridges does not only look into fixing footbridges, but we also want to take part in fixing the larger system,” says Atty. Ambray. “We envision this project to be a starting point in the transformation of Metro Manila as a safe and walkable city,” he remarked.<div> </div><div>From Chaos to Convenience: The Story Behind the Quiapo Footbridge </div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1741160861234Footbridge donated by Ecobridges to the City Government of Manila located along Quezon Boulevard near Quiapo Church.jpg" style="width:800px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>A footbridge donated by Ecobridges to the City Government of Manila, located along Quezon Boulevard near Quiapo Church.</div> A notable illustration of Ecobridges&#x27; dedication to improving pedestrian facilities is the Quiapo footbridge, which was donated to the City of Manila in 2014 and continues to be in use, accommodating thousands of pedestrians frequenting Quiapo&#x27;s shops and the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, commonly referred to as the Quiapo church. Before the donation from Ecobridges, pedestrians needed to navigate the highly congested Quezon Boulevard, filled with jeepneys, cars, various modes of transport, and informal vendors, among other things. This causes the area to be susceptible to accidents. Ecobridges recognized this challenge and suggested building an overpass to alleviate the strain on pedestrians.Ecobridges also stepped up the service a notch and provided a CCTV system and security guards roving on the footbridge 24/7. Even in the busy streets of Manila, this footbridge eases the commuter experience with well-lit pathways. The footbridge provided a safe pathway for pedestrians and eased the road traffic.“We wanted to contribute to making Manila—our city’s center—more walkable and accessible for pedestrians, making it easier for them to get from point A to point B,” Atty. Ambray uttered. “Partnering with the city government was key to turning this vision into reality.” This partnership between the local government and the private sector represents a hopeful advancement toward a more pedestrian-friendly Metro Manila, demonstrating that even the most congested regions can prioritize safety, convenience, and accessibility for all.<div> </div><div>From Campus to Community: Ensuring Safe Footbridges for Students</div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1741164515901The Katipunan footbridge was rehabilitated by Ecobridges connecting Ateneo de Manila University and the Regis Center equipped with a round-the-clock security guard.jpg" style="width:800px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>The Katipunan footbridge was renovated by Ecobridges, linking Ateneo de Manila University to the Regis Center, which features a 24-hour security guard.</div>From the Ecobridge in Quiapo, the company has also partnered with other areas in Metro Manila. Recognizing the importance of pedestrian safety and security, Ecobridges has collaborated with the local government of Quezon City and Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) to guarantee the presence of security guards in addition to 24/7 CCTV monitoring. This arrangement offers an extra level of safety, especially for student pedestrians.“Safety and security are at the core of what we do. By implementing these measures across all the footbridges we manage, we’re not only making pedestrian infrastructure safer but also fostering a sense of security within the communities we serve,” Atty. Ambray emphasized. This convenient route is a breakthrough for students, linking the university to the street across where dorms and eateries can be found. The ease of access provided by this secure, well-kept footbridge enables students to conserve valuable time during their everyday activities, whether going to class, getting a meal, or going back to their residences.By engaging in strategic partnerships like this, Ecobridges maintains a benchmark for pedestrian infrastructure that transcends basic functionality—emphasizing safety, accessibility, and the well-being of the community in Metro Manila.<div> </div><div>Crossing Made Easy: Ecobridges Advocates Accessibility for All</div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1741165651872One of the four elevators in the footbridge rehabilitated by Ecobridges in Masinag, Antipolo.jpg" style="width:800px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>One of the four elevators in the footbridge rehabilitated by Ecobridges in Masinag, Antipolo.</div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1741165712996All roads in the Marcos Highway and Sumulong Highway intersection are accessible for pedestrians via the footbridge.jpg" style="width:800px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>LOOK: All roads in the Marcos Highway and Sumulong Highway intersection are accessible through the footbridge.In addition to enhancing its security, Ecobridges is also improving these footbridges to make them more user-friendly. A notable instance is the Masinag footbridge, situated at the crossing of Sumulong Highway and Marcos Highway. The footbridge has four fully operational elevators, available from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., which enables elderly individuals, students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and anyone with heavy items to navigate the busy streets effortlessly.</div> For a period, the elevators were out of order due to the local government unit&#x27;s procurement process constraints, leading to annoyance among commuters who had no accessible alternative. In response to public demand, Ecobridges acted quickly and focused on repairs, making sure the elevators were now functional. This initiative has enhanced the everyday travel experience for numerous walkers while also strengthening Ecobridges’ commitment to upholding inclusive infrastructure.Currently, the Masinag footbridge is recognized as one of the most inclusive structures in Metro Manila, effortlessly combining safety with accessibility. Elderly individuals now have an easy method to access local health services and shops, while students utilize the footbridge to safely reach nearby schools and places. The Masinag footbridge has turned into a vital resource for the community, changing a previously intimidating intersection into an example of urban accessibility. Through its initiatives, Ecobridges showcases its steadfast dedication to building infrastructure that benefits all, enhancing safety and inclusivity in Metro Manila one footbridge at a time.<div> Pedestrian-Friendly Cities: A Vision Within Reach</div>By seamlessly merging innovative advertising platforms with essential pedestrian infrastructure, Ecobridges is establishing a new standard for making a safe, accessible, and walkable commuting experience.Indeed, every Ecobridge restored serves as a testament to the potential achieved when the public and private sectors work together for the common good. Senior citizens managing crowded crossings with ease, students crossing safely to reach schools and dorms, and people with disabilities moving freely are more than mere enhancements; they represent significant transformations that improve the quality of life for everyone.“Our hope is that this project can inspire other cities to embrace similar initiatives, making Metro Manila more walkable, pedestrian-friendly, and convenient for everyone,” said Atty. Ambray.Furthermore, by merging sustainability with practicality, their model demonstrates that infrastructure projects can achieve more than just functionality; they can foster community trust, enhance safety, and promote inclusivity. This goes beyond merely investing in infrastructure; it’s an investment in individuals, ensuring every pedestrian feels seen, valued, and protected.Local governments, private companies, and organizations throughout Metro Manila and the rest of the nation now have the chance to duplicate and enhance these initiatives. Through a partnership with Ecobridges, cities can guarantee that no Filipino needs to jeopardize their safety or comfort merely to cross the road.Every advertisement tells a tale of transformation, a move towards creating a future where cities are walkable, easily accessible, and safe, where cities are the norm rather than the rarity. As urbanization continues to transform the Philippine landscape, projects like Ecobridges act as a call to action—a reminder that we possess the means to create cities that benefit all. By working together with dedication and teamwork, we can create a future where pedestrian-friendly Filipino cities become a universal reality.<div></div><div></div><div></div>

Ecobridges goes beyond just rehabilitating and building footbridges—they make certain that each stage of the process aligns with their goal of creating accessible, walkable cities.

Ecobridges goes beyond just rehabilitating and building footbridges—they make certain that each stage of the process aligns with their goal of creating accessible, walkable cities.

EcoBridges: Transforming Footbridges, Changing Lives

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EcoBridges: Transforming Footbridges, Changing Lives

Published Mar 20, 2025 01:30 PM PHT

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Updated Mar 25, 2025 05:30 PM PHT

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Ecobridges

City of Manila

Quiapo Church

Sumulong Highway

Marcos Highway

Masinag Footbridge

Metro Manila

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