Melco Resorts (Philippines) Foundation Corporation (MRP Foundation), the corporate social responsibility arm of City of Dreams Manila, has funded the Php20 million (US$330,000) rehabilitation of Sunshine Park, described as a treasured public space in Baguio, the charity announced.
In what MRP Foundation says is a continuation of its advocacy to support community welfare, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and MRP Foundation Vice President Armin Antonio B. Raquel Santos, together with city government officials and stakeholders, led an inaugural ceremony in late May, marking the turnover of the enhanced Sunshine Park. Students from the University of the Cordilleras performed at the event, affirming the park’s longstanding connection to Baguio’s academic and creative communities.
The rehabilitation retained key elements of the park’s original design, including its stage, ramp and drop-off area, while introducing upgraded pathways, outdoor calisthenics equipment, picnic tables, enhanced landscaping and other amenities. A new public art installation, Language of Photography by Baguio artist Clinton Aniversario, enriches the site’s cultural character.
The project, fully funded by MRP Foundation’s donation, broke ground in March 2025 and was implemented by the Baguio City Government.
“Our support for the rehabilitation of Sunshine Park in collaboration with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation and other project partners reflects MRP Foundation’s commitment to creating lasting value through public spaces that strengthen communities and enhance quality of life. The enduring role of Sunshine Park in the city’s life makes it a meaningful initiative for MRP Foundation,” said Clarence Chung, President of MRP Foundation and Chairman and President of Melco Resorts and Entertainment (Philippines) Corporation.
“Through this rehabilitation, we hope to contribute to the continued evolution of a landmark that remains integral to the country’s Summer Capital. More than a public space, Sunshine Park fosters connection, well-being, and shared experiences while strengthening the sense of place and community that has long defined Baguio.”
Located beside the University of the Philippines Baguio campus and near the University of the Cordilleras and key commercial centers, government offices, and transportation hubs, the site serves as a common ground for students, residents, workers, artists and visitors, underscoring its role as one of the city’s most accessible gathering places.
According to Melco, the project was undertaken through the Baguio City Government’s Adopt-a-Park Program and reflects a shared commitment to creating environments that encourage active lifestyles, social interaction and civic engagement.
During the inauguration, Mayor Magalong said the redevelopment resulted from years of observing how residents use Sunshine Park and was shaped through consultations with stakeholders, educational institutions, artists and local organizations. The improvements were designed to address changing needs while preserving the welcoming character that has made the area a familiar part of everyday life in Baguio. He also highlighted the initiative as part of the city’s broader sustainability efforts, including the planned rehabilitation of the nearby Tree Park.
Baguio City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) Head Atty. Rhenan Diwas said the design evolved through months of consultations, observations and collaborative planning. Guided by the concept of “education beyond walls,” the site aims to support learning, cultural activities and creative expression.
Melco explained that the Sunshine Park rehabilitation forms part of MRP Foundation’s broader initiatives in environmental stewardship, education, culture and health, aligned with PAGCOR’s mandate of creating meaningful social impact in partnership with local governments and institutions.
Earlier this year, MRP Foundation funded the Php50 million (US$825,215) redevelopment of Caloocan City’s People’s Park, transforming it into a vibrant green destination featuring landscaped grounds, a children’s playground, fitness facilities, jogging paths, picnic areas, sports amenities and spaces that encourage outdoor activity.
In January, MRP Foundation also donated Php9.9 million (US$164,000) worth of security equipment and vehicles to the Philippine National Police National Capital Region Police Office (PNP-NCRPO), supporting efforts to strengthen public safety, law enforcement capabilities and emergency response operations.
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