Sen. Mark Villar advocates for green spaces, pedestrian infra PH-wide
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Mark Villar is championing a nationwide initiative to integrate green spaces and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in every province, emphasizing their vital role in sustainability, public health, and economic resilience.
Citing successful models such as the Boracay Circumferential Road and Tondaligan Beach Walkway in Pangasinan, Villar believes these developments should be replicated across the country to promote safer, greener, and more accessible public spaces.
“As we continue to build and modernize our infrastructure, we must prioritize green spaces and pedestrian-friendly developments,” Villar said.
“Projects like the Boracay Circumferential Road and Tondaligan Beach Walkway have shown how well-designed public infrastructure can enhance mobility, boost tourism, and improve quality of life. We need to replicate these across all provinces.”
Villar emphasized that incorporating parks, urban forests, and well-planned pedestrian pathways into national infrastructure projects will help combat urban congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and encourage healthier lifestyles.
Article continues after this advertisementGreen spaces are proven to mitigate urban heat, improve air quality, and promote mental well-being, while pedestrian infrastructure fosters community engagement and local economic growth.
Article continues after this advertisementThe senator’s advocacy aligns with global urban planning trends that integrate sustainability into cityscapes without compromising economic development.
His proposal urges local governments, private stakeholders, and environmental organizations to collaborate on designing and implementing eco-friendly urban projects that prioritize walkability, accessibility, and environmental conservation.
“Every Filipino deserves a community where they can walk safely, breathe fresh air, and enjoy nature,” Villar added.
“By expanding pedestrian infrastructure and green spaces nationwide, we are investing in a healthier, more livable, and more resilient future for all.
Villar’s push for sustainable infrastructure builds on his track record of promoting green and inclusive development.
As former secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), he spearheaded projects that integrated environmental considerations into national infrastructure, ensuring a balance between modernization and sustainability.
The senator also expressed his support for legislative measures that promote urban greening, reforestation, and pedestrian-friendly city planning, underscoring the need for policies that prioritize people and the planet alongside economic growth.
With increasing concerns over climate change, traffic congestion, and deteriorating urban environments, Villar’s call for nationwide green spaces and pedestrian infrastructure is seen as a crucial step toward a more sustainable and inclusive future for the Philippines.
