Pasig River rehab project recognized by UN body

Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM), a project of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., wasnamed one of the recipients of the 2025 Asian Townscape Award presented by the United Nations (UN), following deliberations in Japan last September 17.

In a letter to the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD), the UN-Habitat Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific confirmed the award that will be formally conferred on Nov. 27 in Hong Kong, according to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

“The project was designed to transform the Pasig River and its banks into recreational, cultural and commercial hubs,” the DHSUD said in a statement.

“It promotes transportation connectivity by establishing bike lanes and jogging paths with pocket commercial shops along the 26-kilometer stretch of the river — maximizing its economic potential,” it added.

The Asian Townscape Award recognizes outstanding achievements in urban design and sustainable development.

The PBBM Project, spearheaded by the DHSUD serving as the previous lead agency of IAC-PRUD, has a strong supporter in First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.

The rehabilitation initiative is now overseen by the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Urban Development, headed by Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar.

The project aims to revitalize the Pasig River and supports transport connectivity.

To date, more than two kilometers of developed riverfront — from the back of the historic Manila Central Post Office to Fort Santiago in Intramuros — have been opened to the public.

The area has fast gained popularity among local and foreign tourists.

Construction of additional phases is now underway in other parts of Manila as part of the continuing rollout of the PBBM project.