The local government of Manila started the redevelopment of the Arroceros Forest Park in Lawton with a groundbreaking at the site on Wednesday (Sept. 8).

The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and Vice Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan.
In his speech, Domagoso said the redeveloped forest park will serve not only as a place for enjoyment but also a place where citizens of Manila can breathe fresh air.
“Alay natin ‘to sa mga batang Maynila, lalo na hirap na hirap makapamasyal ang mga nanay at tatay natin, ang mga lolo’t lola natin ngayon. Darating ang ilang panahon simula ngayon, magkakaroon sila ng isang maaliwalas, malinis, at masariwang hangin sa gitna ng Lawton (This is our gift to the children of Manila, especially now that it is difficult for our parents and grandparents to stroll around. Soon, they will have clean and fresh air in the middle of Lawton),” the mayor said.
The redeveloped 2.2-hectare park will have an elevated path walk, children's play area, and adult's recreation area.
Over 3,500 trees can be found in the park including Acacia, Anahaw, Kamagong, and Mahogany. None of the trees will be cut in the process of redeveloping the park, Domagoso assured.
He said the city government will continue to work on its different projects amid the challenges it is facing due to the pandemic.