Makati City, the center for business, lifestyle, culture, and arts, continues to complete its revitalization program by making art more accessible and enhancing the pedestrian experience. Following the recent inauguration of the Paseo-Villar Underpass, a vibrant mural at the Legazpi Underpass was unveiled, featuring various flora and fauna from various regions of the Philippines. The ceremony was led by Ayala Land, Inc. Marketing and Communications Head Chrissy Roa, ALI Project Development Manager for Makati Shiella Aguilar, MACEA General Manager Jonathan David, and Mural Artists Janica Rina and Jerson Samson.
“This mural shows the commitment of Ayala Land to build inclusive communities that promote art. This public art installation is located in an area frequented by pedestrians, making it accessible to people from all walks of life. The different elements in the mural also symbolize the diversity and vibrance of Makati—a melting pot where people from various parts of the country come together and converge” says Chrissy Roa of Ayala Land.
According to lead artists Janica Rina and Jerson Samson, “It also tells the story of how humans and nature can harmoniously thrive together and also reminds us to value the natural treasures in our homeland.” Lead artists Janica and Jerson were assisted by displaced artists in completing this mural.
The Legazpi Underpass stands parallel to Ayala Avenue at the heart of the MCBD and it connects the urban oasis of the city—Ayala Triangle Gardens and Ayala Center. The underpass is connected to Ayala Center’s retail area and towards the other side of it, pedestrians can enjoy and relax in the scenic garden of Ayala Triangle.
Other underpasses in Makati that don ceiling murals are the Salcedo Underpass and the Ayala Avenue Underpass, each featuring a unique concept. Pedestrians are invited to explore these art-infused walkways and enjoy a refreshing Art Walk in the city.
Makati continues to be a premier city and a place where people unite to live, work, and play. With the great number of people coming in and out of this bustling city by foot, car, or any other form of transport, the creation of infrastructures that cater to multi-faceted lifestyles carries on.
Pedestrian-driven development proceeds at Makati to promote a safer and more enhanced walking experience around MCBD. Known as a “15-minute city,” offices, malls, banks, schools, and other establishments are all accessible through a network of underpasses and walkways.
To watch and experience the unveiling of the Legazpi Underpass mural, check the Make It Makati Facebook page.