In the Heart of Aklan, a Park Blooms with Purpose

By: John Dela Cruz

Godofredo Ramos Park leads the way in wellness, culture, and community life

KALIBO, Aklan–In Kalibo, Aklan’s provincial capital, a quiet transformation is turning heads — not with towering buildings or concrete roads, but with green spaces, shaded walkways, open-air wellness centers, and a transport stop that welcomes locals and travelers alike.

At the center of this revival is Godofredo P. Ramos Park, nestled within the sprawling grounds of the Aklan Provincial Capitol. It is emerging as more than just a backdrop for government buildings. It is fast becoming Aklan’s new centerpiece for wellness, sports, and community life.

This movement comes in step with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call during the 2025 State of the Nation Address, urging local governments to invest in open spaces for health, sports, and public gatherings. In Aklan, that call has already taken root — quite literally — through a growing public park where children can run freely, seniors can walk safely, and families can gather in peace.

A Fresh Take on Everyday Travel

What was once a dusty roadside corner has been reimagined into a transport hub with a clean, well-maintained bus stop, shaded waiting areas, and newly opened comfort room facilities — a welcome improvement for commuters and tourists traveling through Aklan’s nautical highway. It’s a small touch, but one that speaks volumes of the province’s hospitality.

The stop links travelers to surrounding towns and even far-off islands, but its thoughtful design invites more than just transit. People linger. They stroll. They pause to breathe. Around the hub, a pocket park blooms — shaded by trees, lined with benches, and bordered by pedestrian paths. It’s the kind of space that makes waiting for a ride a bit more enjoyable.

Wellness, Sports, and a New Aklan Lifestyle

Just steps away is the ongoing renovation of the ABL Sports Complex, now being transformed into a P80-million modern facility for sports and entertainment — fully air-conditioned and capable of hosting provincial tournaments and large civic events. Beside it, a wellness center and fitness zone continues to attract joggers, health enthusiasts, and government employees looking to stretch their legs.

The park’s walkways, lit and landscaped, have become an early morning and late afternoon favorite. Whether for a light jog, a brisk walk, or a relaxing break, the space reflects a growing shift in how Aklanons value health, recreation, and public space.

A Governor’s Vision, A Community’s Support

This transformation is no accident. It is the result of Governor Joen Miraflores’ visionary leadership, which sees infrastructure not just as roads and buildings, but as tools for wellbeing and inclusive growth.

“Infrastructure must serve people — not just move them,” Governor Miraflores said during a recent Capitol event. “We’re building spaces where people can live healthier, connect more, and feel proud of their province.”

The effect is tangible. Around the park, restaurants, small cafés, review centers, and service shops have started to open. The once sleepy Capitol grounds now pulse with life, especially on weekends.

But as the park grows in popularity, so does the responsibility to keep it clean, safe, and welcoming for all. The Provincial Government calls on every citizen to take part in maintaining the park — respecting public spaces, disposing trash properly, and using facilities responsibly.

After all, this park belongs to everyone.

And in this corner of Aklan, it’s easy to believe that something as simple as a tree-lined path, a clean restroom, and a public bench could be the foundation of something greater: a community in motion, in wellness, and in harmony.