6 Green Pockets in Makati (That Aren’t Just for Lunch Breaks)

Reclaim your me-time.
by Edgardo Toledo | January 16, 2026

Once you’ve reached adulthood, having accessible, well-maintained third spaces becomes a dire need. Think of parks, libraries, and cafés. These places are where people can go to relax, interact, and feel a sense of belonging. 

Metro Manila may be short on third spaces, given that malls are at every turn, but there are still a few gems to be found. Here’s your anti-burnout guide to the city: Makati Edition.

 

Legazpi Active Park

Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for your morning stroll or a breezy path for your pets, Legazpi Active Park is the ultimate place to find your zen. This urban oasis is the perfect backdrop to make every minute feel like a retreat—surrounded by trees and manicured lawns. Once you’ve hit your steps, take a seat on one of the concrete benches to simply unwind and recharge amidst the greenery.

 

Washington SyCip Park

Just a few steps away lies Legazpi Active Park’s quieter sibling, Washington SyCip Park. Lately, people are all about embracing the analog life, and Washington SyCip Park is the perfect place to get started. Sculptures by renowned Filipino artists, a tranquil koi pond, a hidden gazebo—what’s not to love? I’ll tell you: not going.

 

Jaime Velasquez Park

Speaking of going analog, kids need a digital detox as much as adults do. Aside from hosting community events like Art in the Park and the Salcedo Weekend Market, Jaime Velasquez Park features a mini playground where kids can go berserk (respectfully). For kids at heart like you, people-watching or getting lost in a good book under the shade of decades-old trees is a great way to spend a slow, peaceful day.

 

Greenbelt Park

This pocket garden is how I imagine Metro Manila would look if green spaces weren’t an afterthought. Greenbelt Park strikes a perfect balance between commercial establishments and a sanctuary for much-needed me-time. 

Once you’re done contemplating your life choices by the pond, grab a coffee at the nearest cafe, or better yet, indulge in a little retail therapy. Don’t worry, it’s still part of the relaxation experience at Greenbelt Park.

 

Ayala Triangle Gardens

Some say that picnics are a thing of the past. Well, they’re wrong. Picnics are always a ‘yes’ as long as green spaces like the Ayala Triangle Gardens exist. The 2-hectare landscaped urban park has numerous spots to lay out a mat, munch on home-cooked meals, and breathe in a bit of fresh air while the rest of the city blurs by.

 

Makati Poblacion Park

Parks aren’t usually top of mind when Poblacion gets mentioned—eherm, nightlife galore—but Makati Poblacion Park would still welcome you with its stone benches and lush greenery. If you’re lucky, it might also be the backdrop for that organic encounter straight out of a cheesy rom-com.

 

Which of these parks are you heading to this weekend? Tell us in the comments!

Header photos from Salcedo Village, Make It Makati/Facebook