The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in collaboration with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Manila City government, launched the groundbreaking ceremony for the Plaza Azul Redevelopment Project in Pandacan.
The project, proposed by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna, aims to convert idle land into a park for city residents of Manila.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes presented the redevelopment project to be part of DBM’s “Green Green Green” program.
The MMDA initiated the Adopt-a-Park Project two years ago, aiming to reduce urban decay and provide public events and wellness activities. The agency has already inaugurated over 27 parks across Metro Manila.
“The agency shall continue to enhance public open spaces and foster more green infrastructures in Metro Manila with funding from DBM and MMDA,” Artes said.
Once completed, the redeveloped park will be turned over to the local government of Manila.
“The government is making every effort to transition to a green economy. This approach aligns with the principles of Bagong Pilipinas, striving for a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for the benefit of all Filipinos,” Budget Undersecretary Wilford Will Wong said.
With an area of 8,000 square meters, the Plaza Azul Redevelopment Park will house various facilities such as an al fresco space, children’s playground, activity lawn, park pavilion, basketball court, multi-purpose court, outdoor fitness equipment area, jogging path, and senior citizen pavilion.
Lacuna thanked the MMDA and DBM for selecting the Plaza Azul to undergo redevelopment as part of the Green Green Green initiative.
“In collaboration with the national government and local government units, expect that there will be more projects that will convert open spaces into parks. The local government of Manila commits its participation and support to the government’s projects and programs,” Lacuna said.
