Baguio City, the country’s renowned summer capital, is undertaking a noble mission to safeguard its remaining “urban green spaces.” This movement, although prevalent in other countries, has not been as prominent in the Philippines. In developing nations like ours, development is typically equated with the construction of buildings and infrastructure to signify economic growth. Undeniably, construction activities generate employment opportunities, and the resulting urban landscape, with its modern cities, skyscrapers, and advanced technology, attracts investors who could inject much-needed capital for new businesses and job creation. However, unregulated development poses environmental risks and long-term consequences for public health. In 2019, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported that only approximately 12 percent of the land area in the National Capital Region (NCR) consists of green spaces. La Mesa Ecopark accounts for nearly half of that area, while the open space within the Ninoy Aquino International Airport occupies about a quarter. Other considerable green spaces include Rizal Park in Manila, Quezon City Memorial Circle, and Rainforest Park in Pasig. The remaining green spaces are predominantly found in golf courses or cemeteries. Arroceros Forest Park, dubbed as Manila’s “last lung,” has continuously faced threats due to various city government administrations’ “redevelopment” plans. Even areas outside NCR have not been immune to development activities, with many places witnessing the displacement of indigenous communities and the destruction of natural habitats due to infrastructure development. This leaves fewer and fewer areas available for green spaces. The lack of green spaces became glaringly apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, when there was a scarcity of multifunctional, well-ventilated areas where people, particularly those in cities, could escape the monotony of staying indoors without jeopardizing their health. This is perhaps why the controversial dolomite beach gained popularity, serving as a refuge for many people whose mobility was limited during the strict lockdowns. Unfortunately, the previous administration exploited this situation to promote a politically favorable but environmentally unsustainable open public space. However, this type of green space is not what the country truly needs. The government should focus on conserving and protecting genuine green spaces. Fortunately, several local governments are advocating for sustainable development, such as Iloilo, whose zoning ordinance integrates biodiversity, cultural heritage, urban design, and green growth. Baguio, as previously mentioned, is also making strides in this direction, with its city council recently passing an ordinance on first reading to designate and preserve the city’s remaining urban green spaces. This measure is commendable, considering that Baguio, despite experiencing the negative impacts of tourism and development, still retains pockets of green spaces in its mountains, forests, and parks. These green spaces are not only integral to the city’s allure but also crucial for its survival. The ordinance is intended to complement an ongoing scientific study on the city’s animal and plant life. A group of biologists from the University of the Philippines Baguio discovered that biodiversity persists within urban areas after identifying 18 bird, nine rodent, and 31 plant species in the Buyog watershed, a forest patch situated amidst densely populated areas in Quirino Hill and Pinget. Baguio officials acknowledge that urban green spaces not only enhance the city’s livability and environmental quality but also contribute to the overall well-being of its residents and aid in climate change mitigation. The World Health Organization recommends 9 square meters of open spaces per person, yet based on the Green City Index research, Filipinos currently have an average of only 5 square meters. It is worth noting that in Singapore, a smaller country, green spaces make up 47 percent of its total land area. If Iloilo’s and Baguio’s initiatives are replicated by other local governments, the Philippines, with its vast land and natural resources, can certainly surpass Singapore in allocating more green spaces while pursuing its industrialization goals. Development should not solely revolve around the construction of buildings and infrastructure that transform cities into concrete jungles. True development is about creating a livable world for everyone, which includes allocating essential green spaces for public health. Research has shown that green spaces can help reduce premature mortality, increase life expectancy, aid in mental well-being, and decrease cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, in the face of global warming, green spaces can mitigate air pollution, heat, and noise levels. Isn’t it time for the country’s policymakers to shift their mindset from gray to green and reconsider their approach to development?
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