MANILA, Philippines — Senator Mark A. Villar has filed Senate Bill No. 1796, a landmark measure seeking to establish the Philippine National Public Parks System. The bill aims to protect the country’s natural resources, preserve cultural and historical landmarks, and significantly expand public access to green recreational spaces.
- Unified Management: The bill proposes the creation of a National and Local Public Parks Authority to oversee a coordinated network of parks nationwide, moving away from fragmented management.
- Urban Green Spaces: It mandates the creation of urban parks and open spaces within local government units (LGUs) to address the needs of rapidly growing and densifying cities.
- Conservation & Research: The measure would establish National Parks Institutes dedicated to research, education, and capacity-building for park rangers and conservationists.
- Tax Exemptions: To ensure financial sustainability, parks and related operations under this system would be exempt from certain taxes, fees, and charges.
Senator Villar highlighted that the bill is not just an environmental initiative but a public health necessity.
- Mental Health: Access to green spaces is scientifically linked to reduced rates of depression, anxiety, and chronic stress.
- Physical Well-being: Parks encourage physical activity, helping to combat sedentary lifestyles and associated health risks.
- Climate Resilience: Increasing the number of protected green spaces helps cities better manage heat and floods—critical challenges in the face of climate change.
The bill encourages multi-stakeholder participation, allowing community groups and private entities to contribute to the maintenance and protection of parks. Villar emphasized that natural landscapes are “irreplaceable treasures” that shape Filipino national identity.
“Investing in a national parks system is an investment in our environment, our cultural legacy, and the long-term health and happiness of our people,” Villar said as he urged his colleagues in the Senate and House to prioritize the measure.