First Lady Liza Marcos said efforts to improve the Pasig River Esplanade are steadily progressing following an inter-agency meeting on the planned turnover of kiosks for the river walkway.

In a recent social media post after the meeting held at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, Marcos expressed optimism about the project’s direction, citing continued coordination among government agencies to make the esplanade more welcoming to the public.

“Slowly but surely, things are coming together for the Pasig River Esplanade,” Marcos said.

She said the meeting focused on practical steps to improve the visitor experience, including better organization of kiosks, support for local merchants, and measures to ensure 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 said the goal is to create a public space that balances livelihood opportunities with accessibility and order, while remaining 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 forms part of the administration’s broader push to rehabilitate the historic waterway and turn it into a functional public and tourism space.

Earlier phases of the project focused on river cleanup, flood control, and the redevelopment of walkways and open areas along key sections of the Pasig River.

The esplanade is envisioned as a people-centered urban space that supports cultural activities, tourism, and small businesses, while contributing to the long-term restoration of the river.