A greening and revitalization project has improved Jaime Velasquez Park in Salcedo Village, Makati, now reopened to the public.
Makati Central Estate Association (MACEA) reopened the refreshed Jaime Velasquez Park, together with Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI), Barangay Bel-Air, and the Makati LGU,
The venue for wellness and community features a large grassy lawn, wide-open spaces, visual artworks by Impy Pilapil, a children’s playground, a pet park, and a trellised walkway. It also has a community center, a barangay office, and a satellite clinic with public restrooms.
Located in the midst of Makati Central Business District, Jaime Velasquez Park is a quick getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. It stands as a primary convergence point by bringing people together for exercise, children’s playtime, weekend strolls with furry pets, and other fun activities including event gatherings.
The park is named after the late Colonel Jamie C. Velasquez, who was the chief executor of the Makati Master Plan. This was the first open development plan in the Philippines and has since paved the way to what is now known as the dynamic 21st century Makati Central Business District.
“It is fitting, therefore, that MACEA now acknowledges the depth of gratitude we all owe to Colonel Velasquez for his dedication to the principles that MACEA holds dear and we have aimed to embody in the Jaime Velasquez Park: inclusivity and accessibility, safety and the creation of spaces that are both flexible, environmentally responsible, and enduring,” says Jonathan David, General Manager of MACEA.
A refreshing destination in the city
Now, more than ever, Makatizens are looking for open spaces to enjoy fresh air and sunlight. As restrictions ease up this Christmas season, MACEA meets this need by providing a sanctuary for residents, employees, and even children to immerse in nature through a multi-use outdoor space surrounded by lush greenery and lawns where groups can gather for picnics, playtime, workouts, and more. A vital landmark in the city, it is a destination that encourages individuals to reconnect with the community and open up more comfortably in the new normal landscape.
At 7,600 sq.m, Jaime Velasquez Park will be the home for many community events and lifestyle activities. Starting November 26, park visitors will be transported to a melodic experience as live buskers fill the open air with serenades every Friday to Saturday from 4 pm to 7 pm.
With Christmas coming soon, the park will also host Anticipated Simbang Gabi on December 15 to 23 from 7 pm to 8pm. Art enthusiasts can also expect the Jaime Velasquez Park to host the coming bi-annual contemporary art fair called Art in the Park.
“This is something we really need during this time of the pandemic: Open area, fresh air, [and a place where] people can walk in since everybody has been cooped up in our homes for the past how many months,” says Makati Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo. “We continue to partner and we value the partnership with MACEA and Ayala Land Estates because we know [that] together we are able to do many more things that will be of value as well to more of the Makatizens, whether residents or the people who actually do business here.”
An ongoing revitalization in Makati
MACEA and ALI continue to develop livable spaces and green open areas in the city. Jaime Velasquez Park is one of four pockets of green located in the Makati Central Business District and is the most important landmark in Salcedo Village as it serves to be the node’s primary civic space. The redevelopment of the neighborhood park was initiated to upgrade its facilities and improve its look for a more inviting venue that people can enjoy.
These initiatives are all part of Makati’s revitalization efforts, which were planned as early as 2012 to ensure that the city continues to serve the ever-evolving needs of its residents, office workers, locators, and other stakeholders. With more initiatives set to launch before the year’s end, Makatizens can expect more facilities and activities that elevate life in the city.
A Responsible Biking Program was recently pioneered in the Ayala community.
Check out this list of Christmas Festival of Lights and Ayala Makati holiday treats
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