• CHERYL G. CRUZ
A proposed ordinance establishing the Bacolod Waterfront Park on the property of the city government at Bredco or other available area near the shoreline has hurdled first reading at the Sangguniang Panlungsod April 17.
The city government of Bacolod aims to establish a public park for the free use of its residents and an attraction for tourists to enjoy and relax during their free time or vacation, the proposed ordinance, authored by Councilor Em Ang, states.
Funding of P100 million shall be taken from any available funds of the City, national government agencies, or other sources.
The park may include amenities like green space for ball games and track and field activities, benches, gardens and open lawn spaces, wide bay walk, walkways and sandy beach area, fountain/s and waterfalls, tropical rock garden, monuments, children’s playground, and pet park.
There shall be a separate space with an area of at least 600 square meters within the Bacolod Waterfront Park with a playground and obstacle courses specifically for pets to enjoy, the proposed ordinance states.
“Public parks are a clear reflection of a community’s quality of life. They provide residents a space to socialize, building a cohesive neighborhood, and are an important factor in a community’s livability,” Ang said, adding that green spaces give community members a place to be active for free, whether it’s walking, playing sports, hiking, or other forms of exercise.
“Parks with landscape planting, cultural and heritage artifacts, and historical sites can attract visitors and promote tourism. Parks are also sites for special events, festivals, and sports tournaments, which can be major sources of tourism and economic benefits,” she added. | CGC
