Pasig River Esplanade draws holiday crowd

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December 27, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Pasig River Esplanade has become a sought-after tourist destination, especially during the Christmas season.

With walkways, open spaces, viewing decks and stalls selling food and other items, it attracts the most visitors at nighttime, according to a report from ABS-CBN News, citing information from security officers in the area.

According to earlier reports, the Pasig River Esplanade underwent three phases, starting in January 2024 when 500 meters of riverbank behind the gutted Manila Central Post Office were developed in two sub-phases 1A and 1B.

The second phase in June 2024 covered the Pasig River Urban Development Showcase Area Phase 1C in Plaza Mexico, Magallanes Drive in Intramuros.

The third phase of the project was opened to the public in February 2025, covering the 305-meter Fort Santiago Riverwalk that connects Fort Santiago and the Pasig River Esplanade.

President Marcos, who inaugurated all phases of the project, said the effort to restore the old glory of Pasig River was “simple yet difficult.”

“This will create a safer, more beautiful and expansive area for public events, for gatherings and for leisurely walks. More than a development project, it symbolizes unity, honoring our past while embracing progress,” he said in a speech during the opening of the third phase.

The project is managed by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development under the “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” program.