First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has teased a “new look” for the Pasig River Esplanade set to debut in January, saying the redesign aims to create cleaner, more welcoming riverside spaces where families can gather and take pride in Manila’s heritage corridor.

In an Instagram post after a planning meeting with the Intramuros Administration and private partners on Dec. 3, the First Lady said the upgrades — including new kiosks, improved waste management, and dedicated rest areas — may appear simple but are meant to transform the esplanade into a vibrant public space.

“These may seem like simple improvements, but they create spaces where families can gather, relax, and feel proud of our heritage,” she wrote.

“Can’t wait to see the ‘new look’ this January 20!” she added, expressing gratitude to partners working with the government “to bring more life, color, and care to our beloved Intramuros.”

During the presentation, Intramuros officials reported that more than 10,900 volunteers have joined the ongoing Cleantramurous campaign, which promotes “clean as you go” practices and community-driven cleanup drives within the historic district.

Proposed improvements for the Pasig River Esplanade include standardized booth designs, concealed electrical works, stricter food-safety protocols, and uniform operating hours to maintain a “curated and premium” look across the fair zone.

A zoning plan was also presented, mapping out areas for quick snacks, anchor merchants, regional cuisines, desserts and coffee, and a dedicated live entertainment section for busking and performances.

So far, 115 vendors are operating along the Pasig River Esplanade, including 20 sellers accredited by the Intramuros Administration and 95 under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

The upcoming redesign seeks to better organize merchant clusters, upgrade kiosks, and ensure that electrical and food-handling standards comply with safety guidelines proposed by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, the project’s design partner.

A calendar of monthly themes — from Chinese New Year and Valentine’s festivities from January to February to Noche Buena and Simbang Gabi favorites from November to December — was also unveiled to guide programming throughout the year.

These curated themes aim to make the esplanade a year-round cultural and gastronomic destination.