The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Tuesday inaugurated and turned over to San Juan City government the El Polvorin Linear Park in San Juan Elementary School in line with the agency’s Adopt-A-Park project.
The park was built in memory of the martyrs of the Himagsikan sa San Juan del Monte, who valiantly fought with their bolos and machetes against the better armed Spaniards on August 30, 1896, igniting the Philippine revolution that led to the country’s Independence on June 12, 1898.
MMDA acting chair Carlo Dimayuga III and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora led the inauguration of the park.
“We hope to develop or rehabilitate existing open spaces into functional green parks and recreation areas in partnership with each LGU (local government unit) of Metro Manila to further strengthen initiatives on urban renewal,” said Dimayuga.
Zamora expressed his gratitude to the MMDA for the rehabilitation of the El Polvorin Linear Park.
“I thank MMDA for funding the linear park. I want San Juan to be known for its historical significance,” Zamora said.
The El Polvorin Linear Park has fountains, koi ponds, greenwalls, and landscaped-sitting areas such as benches and potted plants.
Under the Adopt-A-Park project, which started last year under former MMDA chair and now Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos, Jr., the LGU would propose the location, design, and cost estimate, while the MMDA sets the criteria for site selection, provides funding, and implements the construction of the project.
Dimayuga also attended the 126th anniversary of the Battle of San Juan del Monte, otherwise known as the Battle of Pinaglabanan, held at Pinaglabanan Shrine.
Flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies were held to commemorate the 126th Battle of Pinaglabanan, highlighted by a 21-gun salute.
Other officials present during the event were Congresswoman Bel Zamora, San Juan Vice Mayor Warren Villa, and National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairman Rene Escalante.