SASMUAN, Pampanga — Rivers and their easements can do more than support water flow and environmental protection. When thoughtfully developed, they can also become spaces that bring communities together and improve everyday life.
This is the vision behind the Sasmuan Linear Park, a Department of Environment and Natural Resources-supported river easement rehabilitation project that has transformed a portion of Dalan Bapor in Barangay Sta. Lucia into a safe, accessible, and environmentally sustainable public space.
The project supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s goal of building more livable, sustainable, and climate-resilient communities under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda.
Built along the riverbank, the Sasmuan Linear Park features concrete pathways, pavilions, picnic areas, and comfort facilities that provide residents with spaces to walk, exercise, gather, and enjoy nature close to home. At the same time, the project helps restore and protect riverbanks while promoting environmental stewardship and responsible use of public spaces.
DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said the initiative demonstrates how river easements can be reclaimed for public benefit. “These easements are being reclaimed so as not to be occupied by informal settlers. In here, everybody should have access and enjoy the park.”
The cabinet official added that the area, which was once open and underutilized, now serves as a public space accessible to all. “Masaya kami na itong ginawa nating proyekto ay magiging plaza na ng bayan ng Sasmuan na open sa lahat ng tao, may access sa lahat ng tao kahit sino po kayo.”
A space for recreation and community
For Sasmuan Mayor Catalina Cabrera, the linear park has become an important part of community life. “Maraming bagay na naitutulong itong itinayong linear park. Maraming nagzu-zumba, yung mga naglalakad dito, yung nagjo-jogging sila. Saka yung mga bata pag nag-aaral ng lessons, nandito sila.”
The mayor said the facility has provided residents with a venue for recreation, leisure, and social interaction while enhancing the municipality’s riverside landscape.
The local government, she added, remains committed to maintaining the park and ensuring that it continues to serve residents and visitors alike.
Shared responsibility
The inauguration of the park also featured seedling distribution and tree-planting activities, highlighting the role of communities in environmental conservation.
Mayor Cabrera encouraged residents to take part in keeping public spaces clean and sustainable. “Ang bawat puno na ating tinatanim ay isang pamana ng pag-asa para sa kinabukasan.”
Meanwhile, Cuna emphasized that environmental protection requires the cooperation of government and communities. “Kami ang lead agency pagdating sa environmental protection pero hindi namin kaya kung wala ang tulong ng lahat ng sektor.”
As Sasmuan Linear Park continues to draw residents and visitors, it stands as an example of how rehabilitated river easements can create safer, healthier, and more vibrant communities while protecting the environment for future generations. Marie Joy S. Carbungco/PIA-3
