The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in partnership with Media Puzzle Holdings Corp and in collaboration with Kamaymanos Art & Design, has launched the San Juan EcoBridge Retrofit Project. This initiative is groundbreaking as it marks the first footbridge in Metro Manila to be beautified using sustainable recycled materials, setting a new standard for urban beautification and environmental sustainability.
The San Juan EcoBridge, located along Ortigas Avenue Extension corner Club Filipino Avenue in San Juan City, has been transformed using recycled plastic waste, primarily sachet plastics. This project not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the footbridge but also addresses pressing environmental concerns by repurposing materials that are typically seen as non-recyclable.
The unveiling event was graced in the presence of Atty. Romando Artes – MMDA Acting Chairman, and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora. Both dignitaries expressed their support for the project, highlighting its potential to set a precedent for future urban beautification and sustainability efforts.
Gio Orbos, co-founder of Kamaymanos Art & Design, emphasized the project’s innovative focus on upcycling sachet plastics. These plastics, often regarded as disposable and non-recyclable, have been given new life through this initiative. Orbos elaborated on the environmental impact of plastic production and disposal, aiming to demonstrate that such materials can possess both longevity and visual appeal when creatively repurposed.
Orbos also highlighted the Philippines’ substantial impact on ocean plastic waste, citing Metro Manila’s heavily polluted rivers. Through the San Juan EcoBridge Retrofit Project, he aims to catalyze a global movement towards environmental sustainability and proudly demonstrate that Filipinos are not just part of the problem, but also the solution.
Ms. Cherry Carrera, president of Media Puzzle Holdings Corp, expressed her gratitude to the MMDA for their collaboration and support in using the footbridge for this groundbreaking project. She highlighted that this initiative aligns perfectly with MMDA’s advocacies and represents a pioneering effort within Media Puzzle Holdings Corp.’s ongoing footbridge beautification program. Carrera also mentioned that this project is just the beginning, and hopefully with this initial effort, the future will look bright for the environment.
Carrera also extended her gratitude to San Juan City LGU specially to Mayor Francis Zamora for their unwavering support in this project. She emphasized that their commitment to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and environment has been instrumental in ensuring the project’s success.
The San Juan EcoBridge Retrofit Project will serve as a paradigm for sustainable waste management and urban beautification. It promotes a creative approach to addressing environmental issues, demonstrating the potential for recycled materials to enhance urban spaces. This initiative not only improves the visual landscape of San Juan City but also encourages a shift towards more sustainable practices, setting a powerful example for other communities to follow.
