Today, we pause to remind ourselves of the value of parks or green spaces in our communities, and the benefits of taking a walk.
In the rapidly urbanizing landscape of the Philippines, parks and green spaces are not mere luxuries but essential components of sustainable city living. They offer a multitude of benefits, from enhancing public health to mitigating environmental challenges. However, the availability and accessibility of these green areas in major Philippine cities remain a pressing concern.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of nine square meters of green space per person within a 15-minute walking distance. Unfortunately, many urban areas in the Philippines fall short of this standard. For instance, Metro Manila has been reported to have only about five square meters of green space per person, which is below the WHO’s recommended minimum.
Quezon City, one of Metro Manila’s largest cities, has a total green space of 23 percent and a tree coverage of 20 percent. While this is a positive indicator, it still underscores the need for more accessible green areas across the metropolis.
The health benefits that parks and green spaces provide are well known facts. Activities like walking in parks or engaging in “forest bathing” (immersing oneself in a forest environment) have been shown to lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, and boost immune function.
Walking, the most basic form of physical activity, is an often underestimated yet incredibly powerful way to improve overall well-being. It requires no fancy equipment, no gym memberships, and no specialized training—just a comfortable pair of shoes and the willingness to take that first step.
Walking outdoors amplifies these effects. Spending time in nature, whether in a park, along a tree-lined street, or on a beach, helps soothe the mind and provide a sense of calm.
If there are no green spaces nearby, perhaps it is time for you to suggest to your barangay or local government unit to dedicate space for that. Parks also serve as communal areas where people from diverse backgrounds can interact, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
It is also important to remind our community and city officials of the environmental benefits of more green spaces in our communities. Green spaces act as the lungs of a city, improving air quality by filtering pollutants and providing shade, which helps regulate urban temperatures.
Despite the recognized benefits, the distribution and availability of parks across the Philippines are uneven. Rapid urbanization has often prioritized commercial and residential developments over the preservation of green spaces. This imbalance not only deprives residents of the associated health and environmental benefits but also exacerbates urban problems like poor air quality.
Both government entities and the private sector have important roles in integrating green spaces into urban planning. For example, the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity has set a target to increase green spaces in the five largest cities by five percent by 2028.
Parks and green spaces are indispensable assets in urban settings, offering extensive benefits that enhance the quality of life for residents. As the Philippines continues to urbanize, it is imperative for both government and private sectors to recognize the value of these green areas and ensure their integration into urban development plans. By doing so, we can create healthier, more sustainable cities that cater to the well-being of their inhabitants.