MANILA — The public can now enjoy the view of Pasig River  while embracing the cultural heritage of the historic walled city of Intramuros. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the inauguration of the Phase 3 of the Pasig River Urban Development Project or the “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” on Thursday, February 27.

In his speech, the president highlighted his administration’s mission to revive and bring back Pasig River’s glory.

“Because in its waters, we see reflections of our dreams and our history. And at times, we have to admit our share of neglect. But we are changing that,” Marcos Jr. said.

“With the opening of this new phase, we have created a pedestrian-friendly heritage corridor. One can jog, walk, or bike from Intramuros to Manila Central Post Office, across the historic and beautiful Jones Bridge, into the equally historic and cultural Binondo area,” he added.

The third phase of the project is a 600-meter walkway consisting the rehabilitated Plaza Mexico, Maestranza Esplanade, and Fort Santiago Riverwalk — all in Intramuros.

The said phase aims to “improve and rehabilitate these historically significant areas to enhance the cultural vibrancy within Pasig River”.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development said it will ensure accessibility for all across the stretch which features open areas and reinforced pathways for casual strolling, jogging and cycling.

It also offers open-air historical gallery with curated art installations which the agency said further enhances the site, “narrating Manila's rich heritage and providing an immersive cultural experience for visitors”.

The esplanade also opens easy access for pedestrians to the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge.

The riverwalk also leads to a new entry point to Fort Santiago.

The Intramuros Administration said its civil guards (guardia sibil) will be manning the esplanade round the clock.

The newly opened pathway connects to the first two phases of the project that were both inaugurated last year — the esplanade behind the Manila Central Post Office and its extension to Plaza Mexico and Intramuros.

DHSUD Assistant Secretary Mark Sambar said they are planning to connect the walkways of both the east and west sides of the project as part of the rehabilitation of the 25-kilometer river.

The west showcase area will feature a modernized esplanade along the riverbanks of Makati to Kalayaan Bridge of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.