February 16, 2018, Manila  A unique assistance program that aims to make the country’s cities more livable and sustainable through the development of public open spaces is being initiated by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).            With a funding of P2.5 billion, the assistance program is a parallel endeavor to the government’s massive national infrastructure development program, “Build, Build, Build”, and in close collaboration with local government units.  The program will support city governments in creating a “breathing space” by enriching open spaces through the establishment of parks and gardens, upgrading streets and waterfronts, and revitalizing plazas. It will also improve the connectivity and accessibility of spaces by constructing eco-friendly bike lanes and walkways.   Urban population and the urgency of investing in public open space development  According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 54% of the 7.2 billion world population in 2014 resided in urban areas,...