First Lady turns over new Pasig River kiosks to boost MSMEs

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on Tuesday led the ceremonial handover of newly built vendor kiosks along the Pasig River Esplanade, which seeks to expand livelihood opportunities for small entrepreneurs and support the government’s river rehabilitation drive.

The kiosks form part of the Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli (PBBM) Project, a flagship program of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that is aimed to give new life into the 25-kilometer Pasig River by developing it into a center for recreation, culture, and tourism.

A total of 47 kiosks and 18 chambers accommodating 22 businesses were officially turned over during the event, giving micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) permanent spaces to operate along the riverwalk.

Once fully completed, 80 kiosks will line the esplanade, featuring a mix of food stalls, grooming and salon services, novelty and flower shops, and outlets selling locally made products and crafts.

Constructed using wood and steel, the kiosks come in 2x2-foot and 2x3-foot configurations and replace the temporary pop-up tents previously used by vendors.

The new structures are designed to provide safer, more durable, and more orderly commercial spaces.

Situated along the Intramuros section of the Pasig River Esplanade, the kiosks complement the completed riverbank walkway stretching from Fort Santiago to Jones Bridge, an area expected to draw thousands of visitors each day.

The kiosk project is being implemented by the Office of the First Lady, in coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Rehabilitation, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Intramuros Administration, with Megaworld Corp. providing technical support during the initial phase of commercial operations.

Aside from promoting local commerce and tourism, the initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to environmental protection, particularly through enhanced waste management practices along the river.

The esplanade enforces a “clean-as-you-go” policy, supported by waste segregation and proper disposal systems to help maintain cleanliness in the area.

The Pasig River Esplanade is open to the public daily, with commercial activities operating from 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight.—MCG, GMA Integrated News