Visitation and perception of college students in selected urban parks in the city of Manila, Philippines

Arthur Lagbas

Arthur J. Lagbas Construction Engineering and Management Department, Integrated Research and Training Center, Technological University of the Philippines, Ayala Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, Philippines; Chemistry Department, College of Science, Technological University of the Philippines, Ayala Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, Philippines; Faculty of Management and Development Studies, University of the Philippines Open University, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines

Keywords: cultural heritage, frequency of visits, perceived benefits, photo familiarity

Abstract

The districts of Ermita and Intramuros in Manila, Philippines are important for outdoor recreation and urban resilience because of their large public green spaces. Arroceros Forest Park, Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Paco Park, and Rizal Park are public parks with notable historical and cultural heritage significance and are strongly appreciated for their ecological and cultural services. Three hundred forty-one college students of the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), Manila campus answered an online questionnaire. The survey aimed to examine their park visitation activities before the COVID-19 pandemic, acquaintance with park photos, and perceptions of ecosystem services, disservices, urban environmental problems, and land use. Results showed that the open-access parks (Intramuros and Rizal Park) were the most frequently visited, while the gated parks (Arroceros Forest Park and Paco Park) were the least visited. In general, park visitation correlates significantly with allowance and familiarity with park photos and residences. Air pollutants removal and regulation of climate and stormwater were the most appreciated ecosystem services. The Arroceros Forest Park and Rizal Park were strongly appreciated for their air pollutants removal services. Loss of green spaces and increasing volume of vehicles were perceived as major urban environmental problems. A high proportion of respondents indicated that the city government should encourage the expansion of existing green spaces and permanently preserve tree-covered land. The high importance of regulating services as the students perceived represents the demand for and significance of urban parks for maintaining urban ecosystem quality. Findings could help park managers and decision-makers understand the influence of socio-demographic variables on park use, visit, and perceived demand for intangible ecosystem services. Integrating park use patterns and perceptions in park management and land use planning could potentially result in enhanced park services, improved quality of experience, and equitable access for all park visitors.