Finding solace in nature can be a challenge when you’re in the bustling cities of Metro Manila. With only 5 square meters per person amount of green space in Manila, it is well below the index average of at least 9 square meters of green space per person recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
However, a growing number of eco-friendly parks just around the Metro are offering urban dwellers a refreshing escape.
Data from the National Parks Development Committee (NPDC) revealed that urban park visitors have already reached over 3 million from January to November 2022, an increase of over 50 percent compared to the over 1.5 million visitors in 2021.
Step into the heart of urban sustainability as we explore a green sanctuary within city limits.
1. La Mesa Eco Park
Located in Quezon City, La Mesa Eco Park is a 33-hectare public park that stretches along the La Mesa Watershed Reservation.
With its lush greenery, well-maintained trails, and a man-made reservoir, the park provides a peaceful escape from urban life. Beyond recreation, it serves a crucial role in watershed management, ensuring sustainable water resources for the city.
What sets La Mesa Eco Park apart is its commitment to environmental preservation.
The park actively manages watersheds, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the metropolitan area. Whether you’re into nature or outdoor activities such as jogging, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and picnics, this park offers a simple and enjoyable way to connect with nature while supporting sustainable practices.
La Mesa Eco Park is open to the public Monday-Friday from 6 AM to 12NN, and during weekends from 6 AM to 3 PM, with an entrance fee of Php40 for students and Quezon City residents, and Php50 for non-QC residents.
2. Arroceros Forest Park
Dubbed the “Last Lung of Manila,” Arroceros Forest Park is a 2.2-hectare green space located in Ermita, Manila.
Originally designated for a government building, it was saved by local environmental advocates in the 1990s, evolving into a home to over 60 types of trees, more than 8,000 plant species, and 10 species of birds.
Popular among locals and tourists alike, the park provides a serene escape near historical and cultural landmarks. Its existence highlights the positive outcomes achievable when a community comes together to preserve green spaces within urban environments, contributing to both environmental health and the well-being of the people.
Arroceros Forest Park maintained a commendable policy of providing free entrance to visitors, allowing all to experience the natural beauty it beholds. It is open to the public every day from 8 AM to 5 PM.
3. Ninoy Aquino Parks And Wildlife Center
With its 22.7-hectare land area, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife (NAPWC) is a protected area located in Quezon City. NAPWC, also called “Nature Park in the City’s Heart,” offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The park also houses a wildlife rescue and conservation center. It serves as a sanctuary for rescued animals, providing them with a protected environment where they can thrive. Visitors have the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, contributing to both educational experiences and the promotion of biodiversity awareness.
Additionally, NAPWC offers recreational activities, such as boat rides on the lagoon and designated picnic areas. Families and friends often gather here to enjoy a day outdoors, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing environment.
4. Paco Park
With an area of approximately 10,000 square meters, Paco Cemetery is now known as Paco Park. It is a recreational garden and was once built during the Spanish colonial period in 1820 and served as a municipal cemetery for victims of the cholera epidemic. This was also the final resting place of the three martyred priests – Fathers Mariano Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora.
Today, Paco Park stands as a serene oasis amid the bustling city, providing a peaceful escape for visitors. Over the years, it has also become a popular venue for weddings and cultural events, drawing both locals and tourists seeking a scenic setting for various occasions.
5. Ayala Triangle Gardens
Ayala Triangle Gardens is a well-known green space found in the heart of Makati, Philippines. Developed by Ayala Land, the park spans 20,000 square meters and serves as a refreshing escape amidst the urban landscape. The park is designed to provide residents and visitors with a serene environment, featuring rich landscapes, mature trees, and open grassy areas.
With its well-maintained grounds and accessibility, this park shows the city’s commitment to urban green spaces, providing a harmonious blend of nature and modern living in the heart of Makati business district.
Open to the public, Ayala Triangle Gardens is a favorite spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation.
These eco-friendly parks are not just a breath of fresh air—they are a breath of hope, reminding us that sustainable living can be seamlessly integrated into our daily lives.
