Here’s some good news for pedestrians and commuters: The newest section of the Pasig River Esplanade connecting Arroceros Forest Park to the Manila Central Post Office is now open.
On October 20, 2025, officials opened the fourth phase of the Pasig River Esplanade, spanning around 530 meters, to the public.
This newly completed section sits near cultural landmarks like the Metropolitan Theater and the Manila City Hall, as well as the LRT-1 Central Station Terminal and the MMDA Lawton Ferry Station, providing vital transport links for commuters to access the riverside esplanade network going to Intramuros.
I recently strolled around the newest section a few days after it opened to check it out. This new segment features a wide pedestrian promenade, bike lanes, viewing decks, benches for relaxation, public restrooms, and areas for future commercial spaces, all meant for the public’s enjoyment. Bright lights along the way and stationed security guards enhance the area’s safety.
The fourth phase connects with previous phases of the Pasig River Esplanade that now stretches from Fort Santiago through Intramuros, Plaza Mexico, Liwasang Bonifacio, and down to Arroceros. With the new 530-meter stretch, the walkable area is now 1.88km long.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
A guide to the EDSA Busway in 2025: Stops, fares, and commuter tips
Explainer: What is the proposed Dignity in Commuting Act?
If you’re coming from the LRT-1 Central Station, the main access to Phase 4 of the Esplanade is through Arroceros Forest Park under the LRT-1 Line. This 2.2-hectare urban forest is known as the ‘Last Lung of Manila.’ Located in Ermita on the south bank of the Pasig River, Arroceros serves as a much-needed peaceful and green oasis in the bustling city.
Follow the paved maze-like path through the trees leading out to the riverside, where the former viewing deck has been fitted with ramps and is now directly connected to the previously opened phases of the Pasig River Esplanade. The pedestrian walkway passes under the Manuel L. Quezon Memorial Bridge with Quinta Market across and under the MacArthur Bridge with FEATI University across.
You’ll pass the entrance of the Lawton Pasig River Ferry Station while walking, as well as the remains of the unfinished Pasig River pedestrian footbridge connecting Quinta Market in Quiapo to Lawton.
From here, you’ll emerge at the back of the Manila Central Post Office, from where you can cross over to Binondo via Jones Bridge or go straight toward the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge, Plaza Mexico, and all the way to Fort Santiago via the Riverwalk.
Comparing our recent stroll here to previous visits, this riverside route is a more direct and pleasant way to access the Intramuros area. Previously, crossing to Intramuros involved passing the Lawton Underpass beside the Metropolitan Theater to Liwasang Bonifacio and the front of Post Office or via the Manila City Hall Underpass/Lagusnilad going toward Victoria Street and Bayleaf Hotel.
The initiative is part of a broader program that aims to balance urban renewal, ecological sustainability, heritage conservation, and economic growth along the Pasig River. It also aims to improve transportation connectivity in Metro Manila and adjacent provinces.
The short stretch of the planned 25km Pasig River Development Project aims to “improve and rehabilitate these historically significant areas to enhance the cultural vibrancy within the Pasig River.”
According to the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Pasig River Rehabilitation, since its launch, the initiative has unified government and private-sector efforts to restore the river’s ecological balance and transform it into a sustainable urban corridor.
Earlier phases of the riverbanks have revitalized areas around Intramuros, Plaza Mexico, and the Post Office, improving connectivity, walkability, and accessibility for pedestrians and commuters.
During the launch ceremony held on Sunday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stressed that the esplanade project was not only meant for infrastructure but also as a space for culture, community, health, and business.
“This 530-meter stretch behind Manila Central Post Office all the way to Arroceros Park is being reborn into a vibrant riverside space, featuring walkways, bike lanes, and commercial areas,” said Marcos.
He also highlighted the government’s commitment to sustainable transport with the upcoming operation of M/V Dalaray, the Philippines’ first locally made electric ferry. The e-ferry designed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will augment the operations of the MMDA’s existing Pasig River Ferry Service starting in November 2025.
Plans are also in place to upgrade the Lawton Underpass, enhancing pedestrian access to the esplanade and adjacent areas, and further improving connectivity. Upcoming phases will reportedly incorporate green spaces, heritage sites, and commercial hubs along the riverbanks.
What do you think of the latest phase of the Pasig River Esplanade? Let us know in the comments.
