Manila declares Arroceros land a permanent forest park

A man takes refuge under the tree canopy of Arroceros Park amid the searing heat in Manila. The 2.2-hectare park on the bank of the Pasig River is considered the city’s “last lung” as it helps to counter the effects of congestion and pollution in the capital city. The forest is home to 61 tree varieties and 10 bird species. —Inquirer file

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has signed an ordinance declaring the Arroceros Forest Park, dubbed as the capital city’s “last lung,” as a permanent forest park.

Moreno signed Ordinance No. 8607, which declares a parcel of land on Antonio Villegas Street in Ermita as a permanent forest park. The portion of the land was previously known as “Decs Property.”

The 2.2-hectare park hosts more than 3,000 trees of 61 varieties and 8,000 ornamental plants and is home to 10 bird species.

Around P1 million will be allocated by the Manila City government for the operations of the park.

According to the mayor, this is pursuant to Republic Act No. 5752 which mandates cities to establish and maintain a permanent forest, tree parks, or watersheds in public lands.

“The use and enjoyment of the Arroceros Forest Park must be consistent with the principles of sustainable development and the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology,” read the ordinance, which was signed on February 27 but released to the media on Tuesday.

Under the ordinance, cutting trees, dumping waste, and any form of excavation within the forest park will not be allowed.

Violators of the order will have to pay P2,500 fine for the first offense, P3,500 for the second offense, and P5,000 and/or imprisonment not exceeding one year for the third offense.

Moreno said the local government will designate peace officers who will be tasked to issue citations against violators.

The local government will likewise create an Arroceros Forest Park Governing Committee which will be tasked to formulate a management plan for the maintenance and operations of the forest park.