Sen. Mark Villar calls for more child-friendly spaces in Philippine cities
Senator Mark Villar has called for more child-friendly spaces across the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces where children can learn, play, and thrive.

“As our cities and communities continue to expand, we must ensure that children have safe places to explore their surroundings and enjoy their youth,” said Villar. “Investing in children’s infrastructure is an investment in the future of our country.”

Due to rapid urbanization, many communities lack adequate space for playgrounds, parks, and recreational areas. Schools and public spaces are often located near busy roads, posing a risk to children. Research shows that having a safe place to play is essential for a child’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Senator Villar is pushing for policies that will allow local governments and city planners to include child-friendly spaces in their development plans. Among his proposals are expanding parks and playgrounds, building pedestrian-friendly areas, and creating community learning hubs where children can participate in safe and meaningful activities.

Our cities must be designed with families in mind. Playgrounds, parks, and recreational areas should not be sidelined—they should be made a priority,” Villar stressed. As a former Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Villar spearheaded major infrastructure projects that improved connectivity and mobility in the country. Now as a senator, he is pushing for policies that will ensure that cities are not just designed for cars and businesses but also for children and families. These include implementing safe routes to schools, pedestrian walkways, and stricter traffic regulations in areas frequented by children. Villar also called for stronger collaboration between the government, the private sector, and non-profit organizations to fund and maintain public child-friendly spaces. “By working together, we can build communities where children are safe and have access to the places they need to grow and thrive,” she added.

With a strong commitment to a more inclusive and child-centric Philippines, Senator Villar encouraged policymakers, developers, and local leaders to incorporate child-friendly urban planning into their long-term strategies.

“A nation that prioritizes the well-being of children is a nation with a secure future. Let us work together to make our cities safer, greener, and more inclusive for the next generation,” she said.