As Pasig City gradually expands its tourist destinations through the improvement of its historical landmarks, the local government inaugurated on Tuesday, Jan. 17., the "Bitukang Manok" Linear Park at Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue in Barangay Kapasigan, Pasig City.

"Bitukang Manok," one of the city's historical sites, refers to a long, winding stream, known as the Parian or "Parancillo" Creek.

In the past, when Pasig City was still a densely forested area, Bitukang Manok was used as a gathering place or meeting point by the Katipuneros as they prepared for the revolution. Notably, the Asamblea Magna of the Katipunan was held there in May 1896.

It was also used as an escape route by the revolutionaries during the colonial eras.

The area also brought economic prosperity to the city of Pasig in the past as residents used the Parian or "Parancillo" Creek for irrigation of their farms and crop fields.

It is one of the eight landmarks included in the city's Talking Walls project.

The renovations were made not only to beautify and improve the area for tourism but also to help resolve the city's waste water management issues, ensuring the waterways are regularly cleaned and maintained.

The 3.4 kilometer linear park features white and blue railings by the creek, cemented ground, bike racks, and green walls or vertical gardens with potted plants, in each of the park's six points or intersections.

Walking and biking tours are expected to be organized to complement the area and draw more visitors.

The park will also help generate livelihood and boost the local economy.

The park project is 50 percent funded by the local government and 50 percent by the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) from the national government.

Mayor Vico Sotto, Congressman Roman Romulo, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Pasig Field Office Director Visitacion Martinez, as well as members of the city council and barangay council attended the park's inauguration.

More than beautification, Sotto said they pursued initiatives such as these for three reasons: "Una, para sa kalikasan. Ang kalikasan nakatali po 'yan sa ating kalusugan. Pangalawa, Para sa mas maganda ng mobilidad (First of all, for the environment. The environment is tied to our health. Second, for the improvement of mobility)," he said.

The park spans the city's various barangays which makes it ideal as a shortcut or alternate route for pedestrians, cyclists, and other small electric vehicles, the mayor explained.

The third reason is to reconnect Pasigueños to the park's links to history.

"Dahil ang Bitukang Manok ay nakatali sa ating kasaysayan at kultura. Tungo sa pagunlad sa hinaharap, hindi po natin kakalimutan ang nakaraan. Lilingon po tayo sa ating pinanggalingan (Because Bitukang Manok is tied to our history and culture. Towards a progressive future, we will not forget our past. We will look back and return to our roots)," Sotto added.

The mayor stressed the need for a "single cohesive unit or team" to maintain the linear park.