Carmona: The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has transformed a former sanitary landfill in Carmona, Cavite into a nature park and disaster preparedness training facility that will serve Metro Manila and nearby communities. The transformation marks a significant step toward sustainable urban development and enhanced public service.

According to Philippines News Agency, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, along with MMDA Chairman Don Artes and other government officials, led the inauguration of the MMDA Nature Park and other development projects in Sitio Paligawan Matanda, Barangay Lantic. The initiative was conceptualized by Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos during his tenure as MMDA chair, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s policy direction to provide more green and open spaces for public use.

In his message at the inauguration ceremony, Recto emphasized the importance of collaboration between the MMDA and local government units, highlighting the project as a replicable model for other regions. He commended the initiative as a convergence of government programs, emphasizing its alignment with the vision of 'Bagong Pilipinas.'

Artes noted that the development not only serves as a recreational space but also as a facility for disaster preparedness and emergency response training. The facility welcomes volunteers, partner agencies, local government units, and community groups interested in enhancing their emergency response skills.

In addition to the MMDA Nature Park, the inauguration included other projects such as the Bamboo Pavilion, Livestock Farm, and Seedling Nursery. Cavite 5th District Representative Roy Loyola expressed gratitude for the successful transformation, recognizing the site as a new local tourist destination.

The event featured disaster response exercises by the MMDA Public Safety Division and Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management officers. The training facility includes various structures and simulators for comprehensive emergency preparedness training.

Other notable attendees included MMDA deputy chairperson Undersecretary Frisco San Juan Jr., Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Kristian Ablan, Para±aque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez, and representatives from the Department of Agriculture.