In a metropolis abounding with skyscrapers and sprawling malls, it is very unusual to locate a breathing space, where everyone can relax and have a picnic with the family.

 Big cities in the western part of the world have vast and well-maintained parks like in Berlin, Germany wherein all parts of the city are green with trees and parks. Paris’ Bois de Bologne and Bois de Vincennes, shady and leafy enclaves, are two of the city’s major attractions.

 In the Philippines, a park had been developed amidst massive business and high-class residential expansions in the city of Pasig.

 The Rainforest and Water Park – a 2.5-hectare property was established to provide a pollution-free park where people can stroll and breathe in fresh air.

 Pasig Mayor Vicente Eusebio says the Rainforest and Water Park located in F. Legaspi Street, Barangay Maybunga, is a protected tropical eco-tourist destination in Metropolitan Manila, which resourcefully promotes the spiritual and physical well being of Pasigueños. The mayor added that he understands the need of a park in the city that is why his administration put up this space.

 “I want a place where residents can go to on weekends, where they can relax and have picnics,” says the mayor. “We already have commercial center, so I thought, why not a park? Every city needs a park. Besides, I think we need more parks in Metro Manila,” he adds.

 The park has several zones that cater to the needs of busy city folk, who hardly have time for out-of-town trips and rejuvenation. There is a huge water park, a lush botanical garden, a fitness area, a multipurpose pavilion/auditorium and manicured picnic grounds. The water park boasts of two swimming pools, one of which is an Olympic-size pool. For a bit more fun, two giant water slides have been installed in the area, including a spread of lounge chairs and beach umbrellas, and nearby children’s section. The Water Park also has two pavilions, 27 modern cottages, picnic tables, nine open showers, and a cluster of cafeterias for visitor’s meals.

 Just a stone’s throw away from the Water Park is the Rainforest Garden, which has a modest collection of flora and fauna, including local fruit-bearing trees.

 If you want to be physically fit, the Pasig City government further built the Rainforest Gym (also knows as the Eusebio Fitness Center) as a component of the Rainforest Park. The fitness center is exclusive to Pasig residents. It houses a basketball court, facilities for weight training and bodybuilding, as well as programs for dance and martial arts enthusiasts. And to complete the sportsman’s needs, there are massage and reflexology services to offer on a daily basis.

 The Rainforest Gym now has 9,000 members, who are charged a mere P10 per session for Pasig residents. Non-residents however can have an access but they have to pay P50 for use of the facilities. Eusebio says that prices for use of the pavilion/auditorium, convention area, Youth Training Center, and entrance fees are also kept to a minimum.

 The park has also a mini zoo, which houses a couple of ostriches, one or two boars and a mule, among others. There are also an aviary, a full-sized amphitheatre and a fountain. There are several basketball and tennis courts, and there are all for free. You can see at the entrance and mini-butterfly farm. There is a children playground and place for senior citizens.

 To ensure that the ecotourist destination will be duly protected, the Pasig City government wants to obtain a presidential fiat declaring Rainforest Park as a permanent forest park that should be preserved.

 “We’re doing this in the hope that future development inconsistent with its status as a forest park will be barred,” Mayor Eusebio said.

 An extreme sports area at the far end of the park is on the drawing board, with sport climbing and skateboarding as future main events. Eusebio said he has no intention of imposing an entrance fee for visitors. “The city has enough savings to sustain park operations. We don’t want to burden our residents any further.” He said.

 Pasig, considered the most “liquid” of Metro Manila cities with P2.2 billion in ready cash, saves around P1 billion a year. The park attracts hundreds of people every weekend. Many come to sit on wide benches and generally watch the day pass-a favourite form of relaxation.

 “We frequently come here on weekends. We’re glad the city has built a nice place like this. It’s nice, it’s a cool place and good venue for family to relax.”. DP