First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the ceremonial turnover of newly built vendor kiosks at the Pasig River Esplanade on Tuesday, Jan. 27, a move aimed at expanding livelihood opportunities for small businesses and advancing the government’s river rehabilitation push.

The kiosks form part of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) Project, a flagship initiative of President Marcos’ administration to revive the historic Pasig River and transform its 25-kilometer stretch into a center for culture, leisure, and tourism.

During the turnover, 47 kiosks and 18 chambers housing 22 businesses were formally handed over to vendors, providing new income opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Authorities said a total of 80 kiosks will eventually rise along the riverwalk, accommodating food stalls, grooming and salon services, novelty and flower shops, and outlets selling local crafts.

Constructed using wood and steel, the kiosks come in 2x2-foot and 2x3-foot sizes and replace the temporary pop-up tents previously installed along the riverbank.

The permanent structures are meant to give vendors safer, more durable, and more organized commercial spaces along the esplanade.

Located along the Intramuros stretch of the Pasig River Esplanade, the kiosks complement the completed riverbank walkway from Fort Santiago to Jones Bridge.

Officials said the area is expected to serve thousands of visitors daily as foot traffic increases.

The kiosk project is being implemented by the Office of the First Lady in coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Rehabilitation, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and the Intramuros Administration.

Megaworld Corporation provided technical assistance during the initial phase of commercial operations.

Beyond livelihood and tourism, the initiative also supports the administration’s efforts to protect and preserve the Pasig River through improved waste management.

The esplanade enforces a “clean-as-you-go” policy, including proper waste segregation and disposal systems.

The Pasig River Esplanade is open to the public daily, with commercial operations running from 4 p.m. to 12 midnight.