FIRST lady Liza Araneta-Marcos said efforts to improve the Pasig River Esplanade are gradually coming together following an inter-agency meeting on the planned turnover of kiosks for the walkway. In a recent social media post after the meeting at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, the first lady expressed optimism over the direction of the project, describing steady progress in making the esplanade more welcoming to the public. “Slowly but surely, things are coming together for the Pasig River Esplanade,” Marcos said. She said government agencies discussed practical measures that could significantly improve the visitor experience, including better organization of kiosks, support for local merchants, and ensuring safety and cleanliness along the riverfront. “We met and discussed how the little things can make a big difference, how to make the esplanade more welcoming, more organized and more enjoyable for locals and tourists alike,” she added. Marcos emphasized that the goal is to create a public space that balances livelihood opportunities with accessibility and order, while making the area attractive to both residents and visitors. “From supporting our local merchants to making sure the space feels safe and clean,” she said. The Pasig River Esplanade is part of the administration’s broader efforts to rehabilitate the historic waterway and transform it into a viable public and tourism space. Previous phases of the project focused on river cleanup, flood mitigation, and the redevelopment of walkways and open spaces along key sections of the river. The esplanade is envisioned as a people-centered urban space that promotes cultural activities, tourism and small businesses, while contributing to the long-term restoration of the Pasig River.