Ecopark to rise at Manila Boy's Town

MANILA, Philippines - A 600-square meter ecological park will be put up on a the 23-hectare property of the Manila Boy’s Town (MBT) in Marikina City, an official said yesterday.

MBT officer-in-charge Reynaldo Sanchez, consultant to Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, said this is a welcome development to make life more enjoyable to the young wards and elderly residents of the facility.

The construction of the ecopark is in line with the government’s initiatives to create green areas with trees and vegetation in urban centers to promote public consciousness on the importance of environmental conservation and preservation.

The MBT is home to some 282 senior citizens and 280 youths. It is under the supervision of the Manila Social Welfare Department under Jay dela Fuente.

Sanchez revealed that most of the MBT’s residents are looking forward to the creation of the park for their leisurely walks while being close to nature.

Sanchez said the development of the surrounding area inside the MBT complex near the wall into a recreational walkway would benefit residents engaged in jogging and brisk walking.

Breaches on some parts of the MBT’s surrounding wall would also be repaired in order to discourage trespassers.

“Guards will also be posted at intervals to secure the area and give ample protection for those who would avail of the use of the promenade,” he added.  – Sandy Araneta