Salcedo Park: A Multipurpose Urban Park in Makati

Salcedo Village is a popular business and residential address in Makati City. It houses high-rise residential towers where one can find a luxury condo in Makati and commercial towers, making it one of the more hectic districts in the progressive city. Despite the hustle and bustle of life in the village, there is a pocket garden where residents and those who work in the area or nearby frequent.

Jaime C. Velasquez Park, commonly referred to as Salcedo Park, is a 0.7-hectare urban park in Salcedo Village. Located between Tordesillas Street and Leviste Street to the north and south, and between Toledo Street and Velasquez Street to the east and west, its accessibility and size make it one of the most visited parks in Makati City. It features a playground for kids, a trellised pathway on one of its side, benches, and verdant lawn. No matter what time of day it is, joggers, people with kids or dogs, and those who just want to spend time leisurely are seen around the park.

The Salcedo Community Market is a popular outdoor market in Metro Manila and happens every Saturday from 7 AM to 2 PM in Salcedo Village. Even people who live outside the village and Makati City visit the park just to buy delectable Filipino cuisines, international gourmet foods, organic-produced fruits and vegetables and flowers, and desserts.

In addition, Salcedo Park is a venue of popular events including Art in the Park, a bi-annual art fair that offers affordable artworks, and Salcedo Nights Live, an annual concert sponsored by the Cultural Center of the Philippines that features performances from classical musicians, choirs, and orchestras. The park serves as a place where arts and culture are promoted and a sense of community is strengthened.

Salcedo Park is a breather in the concrete-heavy and busy Makati City. It is open from Mondays to Sundays at 6 AM to 10 PM; however, on Fridays, the park closes at 5 PM to let vendors prepare for the Saturday Market.