Senator Mark Villar is calling for the development of more child-friendly spaces across the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of safe, inclusive, and accessible environments where children can learn, play, and grow.

“As we expand our cities and communities, we must ensure that children have safe spaces to explore and enjoy their childhood,” said Villar. “Investing in child-friendly infrastructure is investing in the future of our country.”

With rapid urbanization, many neighborhoods lack dedicated play areas, parks, and recreational spaces. Schools and public areas are often located near high-traffic roads, increasing the risk of accidents. Research indicates that access to safe play environments plays a crucial role in a child’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Senator Villar is pushing for policies that require local governments and city planners to incorporate child-friendly spaces into development plans. His proposal includes expanding parks and playgrounds, introducing pedestrian-friendly zones, and creating community learning hubs that provide safe and enriching activities for children.

“Our urban spaces should be designed with families in mind. Playgrounds, parks, and recreational centers must be prioritized, not treated as afterthoughts,” Villar stressed.

As the former Secretary of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Villar led major infrastructure projects that improved connectivity and mobility. Now, as a senator, he is advocating for policies that ensure cities are designed not just for cars and businesses but for children and families. This includes the implementation of safe routes to schools, pedestrian walkways, and stricter traffic regulations in areas frequented by children.

Villar is also calling for a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and non-profit organizations to fund and maintain child-friendly public spaces. “By working together, we can build communities where children feel safe and supported, with access to the spaces they need to grow and thrive,” he added.

With a strong commitment to creating a child-centric Philippines, Senator Villar urges policymakers, developers, and local leaders to integrate child-friendly urban planning into their long-term strategies. “A country that prioritizes its children is a country that secures its future. Let’s work together to make our cities safer, greener, and more inclusive for the next generation.”