Senator Mark Villar pushes for green parks in every city, town

Senator Mark Villar has filed a bill requiring all cities and municipalities to establish at least one public green park, citing the rapid loss of open spaces due to urbanization.

Under Senate Bill No. 2049, or the proposed BERDE (Building Eco-Friendly Recreational Destinations for Every) City and Municipal Act, local government units (LGUs) would be mandated to identify suitable public land and allocate resources for the development and maintenance of eco-friendly recreational areas.

The proposal comes as urban expansion continues to accelerate, particularly in highly urbanized areas such as Metro Manila. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows 54 percent of Filipinos, or about 58.93 million people, now live in urban areas, contributing to the steady decline of green spaces.

Villar warned that the reduction of natural environments in cities has led to rising temperatures, increased pollution, and reduced access to spaces that promote well-being.

The bill also requires schools and universities, in coordination with LGUs, to conduct regular tree-planting activities to encourage youth participation in environmental conservation.

“This is no longer a choice, it is a necessity,” Villar said, stressing that the continued loss of green spaces poses risks to public health, the environment, and future generations.

He called on fellow lawmakers, local officials, and the public to support the measure, urging its swift passage in Congress to help create more livable and sustainable communities nationwide.