Marikina’s Green Mandate: Mayor Maan Demands Tree Protection in New Bridge Project

Published: July 20, 2026

In a decisive move that underscores the growing tension between urban development and environmental conservation, Marikina City Mayor Maan Teodoro has issued a clear directive: the proposed bridge project connecting key areas of the city must proceed without harming its treasured trees. The announcement, made public on Monday, signals a firm stance from the local government as infrastructure plans move forward.

The Core Demand

Mayor Teodoro emphasized that any construction plan for the new bridge must include a comprehensive environmental impact assessment, with a specific focus on preserving the city’s mature trees. “We cannot sacrifice our green heritage for concrete progress,” the mayor stated, according to the Manila Bulletin report. “Marikina is known as the ‘River City,’ but our trees are equally part of our identity.”

The bridge, intended to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity, has been in the planning stages for months. However, environmental advocates raised concerns after preliminary surveys indicated that several century-old acacia and narra trees along the proposed route could be at risk.

Background and Context

Marikina City has long prided itself on its environmental initiatives. Under previous administrations, the city implemented strict tree preservation ordinances, including a ban on cutting down trees without special permits. The city’s river park system, lined with lush vegetation, is a hallmark of its urban planning.

The new bridge project is part of a broader infrastructure push by the national government to address Metro Manila’s chronic traffic woes. Yet, local officials are wary of repeating mistakes seen in other cities, where development projects led to the loss of green spaces and sparked public outcry.

Key Facts and Figures

• Marikina City has over 12,000 documented trees along its major roads and parks.
• The proposed bridge spans approximately 1.5 kilometers, connecting Barangays Calumpang and Marikina Heights.
• Environmental groups estimate that at least 30 mature trees could be affected if the original route is followed.
• The city’s tree preservation law imposes fines of up to PHP 50,000 per tree illegally cut.

Implications for Development

Mayor Teodoro’s demand sets a precedent for how local governments can balance infrastructure needs with environmental stewardship. By insisting on tree protection, the mayor is not only upholding local laws but also responding to a growing public demand for sustainable urban development.

“This is more than just a bridge,” said Dr. Lina Santos, an urban planner at the University of the Philippines. “It’s a test case for whether we can build without destroying. If Marikina succeeds, it could become a model for other cities.”

The challenge, however, lies in engineering. Rerouting the bridge or elevating sections to avoid tree removal could increase costs and delay completion. City engineers are now exploring alternative designs, including curved alignments and elevated walkways that weave through the canopy.

Community and Environmental Response

Local environmental groups have praised the mayor’s stance. The Marikina Green Coalition, a grassroots organization, issued a statement saying, “We stand with Mayor Maan. Trees are not obstacles; they are assets. A bridge that respects them will be a bridge that respects our future.”

Residents have also voiced support, with many recalling past projects where trees were removed without consultation. “We lost a lot of shade along the riverbank years ago,” said Manuel Reyes, a long-time resident. “We don’t want that to happen again.”

Looking Ahead

The bridge project is still in the feasibility study phase, with construction not expected to begin until early 2027. Mayor Teodoro has directed the city planning office to submit a revised proposal within 60 days that includes a detailed tree inventory and mitigation plan.

As Marikina moves forward, the world will be watching. If the city can deliver a bridge that both connects communities and protects its natural heritage, it will offer a powerful lesson: progress and preservation are not mutually exclusive. They can, and must, go hand in hand.

For ongoing updates on this story, follow local news outlets and the Marikina City government’s official announcements.