President Marcos was certain that the Pasig River Esplanade is bound to witness more stories and core memories, following its development.
"Now, with the launching of Phase 3 of the Pasig River Urban Development Project, I am certain more stories and core memories will be witnessed by this place," Marcos said in his speech.
As he inaugurated the roughly 600-meter stretch of the newly-developed portion of the Pasig River Esplanade in Intramuros, Manila on Thursday night, Feb. 27, Marcos said it has become a hit to the people, especially among Gen Zs and Gen Alpha.
He also candidly mentioned how the scenic esplanade became a favorite venue for marriage proposals that he expected Secretary of Human Settlements and Urban Development Jerry Acuzar to report such statistics.
"Daily, so many people come and they enjoy the palisade, they enjoy the walkway. The only statistic that I’ve been looking for that no one can tell me, how many people have proposed in the walkway and have become betrothed or have eventually gotten married," Marcos said in his speech.
"Balitang-balita na ang dami talagang nagpo-propose dahil napaka-romantic daw ng venue (It is the talk of the town that many are proposing here because the venue is very romantic)," Marcos added.
"I was happy and a little surprised to know that the Esplanade has become an instant hit among Gen Zs and some Gen Alphas who use it as a backdrop for IG stories and for TikTok," the President went on.
The Chief Executive also expressed excitement over the social and economic gains the development of the Pasig River Esplanade would provide.
"I am thrilled to see the social and economic development of a fully revitalized Pasig River and what it will mean for Metro Manila once again," he said.
The Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) project's Phase 3 spans roughly 600-meter long, featuring three components—Plaza Mexico, Maestranza Esplanade, Fort Santiago Riverwalk.
Plaza Mexico redevelopment integrates historical significance with modern urban design, featuring an open activity area and ornamental landscaping that serve as focal points for cultural performances, tourism activities, and community engagement. This transformation reinforces the plaza's commemoration of the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade and its historical ties between the Philippines and Mexico.
The Maestranza area, a 240-meter-long pedestrian and cycling corridor, establishes an unobstructed riverside passage with a 6-meter-wide walkway supported by reinforced concrete pile caps and beams. This segment includes recreational amenities such as jogging paths, bike lanes, kiosks, and green spaces.
The Fort Santiago Riverwalk features a wider pedestrian-friendly pathway with designated areas for leisurely strolls and cycling, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. It provides a link of the Pasig River Esplanade and Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila, providing visitors another access to Fort Santiago.
According to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the entire developed Pasig River Esplanade now spans 1.1 kilometer.
Marcos told agencies involved in the development of the Pasig River Esplanade to continue their initiatives to expedite the development of the other segments of this project.
"My fellow countrymen, as we return to the vitality and vitality of the Pasig River, we will not only be able to post Instagrammable photos, we will also be able to care for our history, our culture, and our future. In the midst of change, is the new Filipinos, who have discipline, wisdom, and love for their country. May you continue to accompany me on this journey," he said.