By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the morning, workers cleared weeds and soil along the Pasig River Esplanade as the city slowly woke up. What was once a gray riverside stretch is starting to show new life, with fresh plants taking root and open spaces being prepared for a greener future. This marks the start of a major beautification and environmental effort in one of Metro Manila’s most historic waterways.
The Pasig River Coordinating and Management Office (PRCMO), together with the Conservation and Development Division of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources National Capital Region (DENR-NCR), has begun a series of greening and beautification activities at the Pasig River Esplanade. The works run from January 12 to January 17, 2026, as part of ongoing site improvements along the river.
Before planting began, teams from the PRCMO Environmental Enforcement Division and DENR-NCR conducted a joint inspection of Esplanade Phases 1 to 3. The goal was to carefully assess the site conditions and identify plant species that can survive the riverside environment. Officials said the evaluation focused on choosing plants that are suitable for the area, resilient to climate conditions, and capable of improving the overall look and identity of the esplanade.
Authorities stressed that proper planning is key to ensuring high plant survival rates and long-term landscape quality. By using site-appropriate and climate-resilient species, the project aims to avoid past problems where plants failed to grow due to flooding, pollution, or lack of maintenance.
On January 12, River Warriors and DENR-NCR farm workers were deployed to carry out site preparation. This included weeding, cleaning, and clearing designated planting areas. These activities were done alongside regular clean-up operations along the Pasig River, such as the routine removal of solid waste and water hyacinth, which continue to clog parts of the river.
Actual planting started on January 13 at Plaza Mexico in Phase 3 of the esplanade. Various plant species were planted, including miagos, santan, maki, snake plant, schefflera, and eugenia. The newly planted greenery brought an immediate visual change to the area, adding color and shade to the riverside.
Technical personnel from DENR-NCR and the Intramuros Administration supervised the activity. They ensured that plants were placed correctly, matched to the site’s conditions, and followed approved landscape and greening standards. Officials said proper spacing and placement are important so plants can grow well without damaging walkways or other facilities.
In the following days, DENR-NCR and the Intramuros Administration will continue planting more species, such as kamuning, balitbitan, lourdes, and don manuel. Native plant species are being prioritized to support biodiversity and strengthen the ecological link between the Pasig River Esplanade and nearby green spaces like the Arroceros Forest Park.
These improvements form part of a broader rehabilitation effort guided by the Office of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos. The initiative highlights the importance of not only upgrading infrastructure, but also creating people-centered and environment-friendly spaces. The project is also aligned with preparations for ASEAN 2026, aiming to make the riverside more welcoming to both residents and visitors.
As a member of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development, the DENR continues to play a key role in ensuring that environmental protection remains central to riverfront development. Officials said sustained cooperation among agencies is vital to restore the Pasig River and turn it into a cleaner, greener public space for future generations.
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