Mark Villar champions creation of child-friendly spaces in PH

Mark Villar

MANILA, Philippines – Sen. Mark Villar has underscored the urgent need for more child-friendly spaces in the Philippines, advocating for safe, inclusive, and accessible environments where children can play, learn, and thrive.

“As we build modern cities and communities, we must not forget the needs of our children,” said Senator Villar. “Every child deserves a safe space to grow, explore, and enjoy their childhood. Investing in child-friendly infrastructure is an investment in our nation’s future.”

With rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion, the availability of open, green, and secure spaces for children has significantly declined. Many communities lack designated play areas, while schools and public spaces remain vulnerable to traffic congestion, pollution, and safety risks. Studies have shown that access to safe play areas is crucial for a child’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Senator Villar is advocating for policies that require local governments and urban planners to integrate child-friendly spaces into community development plans. This includes expanding public parks, playgrounds, pedestrianized zones, and educational hubs where children can engage in safe and enriching activities.

“Our cities should be designed with families in mind. Playgrounds, parks, and recreational centers should not be afterthoughts—they should be essential components of urban planning,” Villar added.

As a former Secretary of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Villar played a key role in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects. Now, as a senator, he aims to ensure that national and local policies prioritize the well-being of children, including the development of safe routes to schools, traffic-calming measures near learning institutions, and community-led initiatives promoting child safety.

Villar is also calling for stronger collaboration between the government, private sector, and non-profit organizations to fund and maintain child-friendly public spaces. “By working together, we can create environments that nurture our children and provide them with opportunities to grow in safe, healthy, and supportive surroundings,” he said.

With a vision of a more inclusive and child-centric Philippines, Senator Villar urges policymakers, developers, and community leaders to put children at the heart of urban planning. “A nation that values its children is a nation that builds a brighter future. Let’s make our cities safer, greener, and more welcoming for the next generation.”