Dr. Willie Ong. INQUIRER.net file photo / CATHRINE GONZALES
MANILA, Philippines — Vice presidential bet Dr. Willie Ong wants the government to invest in green spaces to nurture the public’s mental health.
Citing various studies, Ong noted that open green spaces will enhance life satisfaction and improve mental health.
“Kailangang-kailangan natin ng open green open spaces para sa mental health ng mga kababayan natin,” he said in a statement.
(We really need open green spaces for the mental health of our fellow Filipinos.)
“May 2018 study na nagpakitang sa Philadelphia, nag-improve ang mental health ng mga residente noong inayos at ginawang green spaces ‘yung mga bakanteng lote doon,” explained Mayor Isko Moreno’s running mate in the 2022 elections.
(There is a 2018 study that shows in Philadelphia, residents’ mental health improved when vacant lots were transformed into green spaces.)
He noted that open spaces such as parks and running tracks will encourage safe modes of relaxation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Kaya kahit nitong pandemic nag-suggest pa rin ang doctors na buksan ang parks,” said Ong.
(That’s why even amid this pandemic, doctors suggested opening parks.)
The doctor pushed for the country’s urban centers to meet the ideal ratio of green space per person.
“Tayo sa (Us, in) Metro Manila, meron lang tayong (we only have) approximately 5 square meters of green open space per inhabitant. ‘Yung (The) World Health Organization 9 square meters ang (was) recommended,” he pointed out.
Aside from mental health advantages, open green spaces will enable better movement among individuals, said Ong.
“Kailangan din itong open green spaces para maging mas maaliwalas ang urban areas, magkaroon ng kaluwagan ang ang mga tao habang naglalakad, at mahikayat silang mag-engage sa social activities,” he furthered.
(These open green spaces are needed to freshen urban areas, there will be more spaces for people to walk on, and they will be engaged in social activities.)