MANILA, Philippines — The Climate Change Commission has lauded the expanding number of cities holding car-free Sundays and hopes the move becomes a “nationwide norm.”
“As more local government units consider expanding car-free initiatives, the growing movement signals a cultural shift toward prioritizing people over vehicles in urban spaces,” the CCC said in a statement yesterday.
Marikina recently joined a growing number of Metro Manila cities dedicating a space every Sunday for biking, jogging, exercise and other community activities.
Meanwhile, Quezon City is closing the stretch of Tomas Morato Avenue every other Sunday morning and is encouraging residents to exercise at the University of the Philippines Diliman campus.
In the south, Makati transforms Ayala Avenue, the country’s financial district, into a weekend pedestrian-friendly zone, while neighboring Taguig allots 5th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City for recreation and fitness activities.
“The Philippines has the potential to become a cleaner, more resilient and more people-first region by prioritizing sustainable mobility. Establishing car-free zones lowers carbon emissions, improves air quality and encourages active, healthier lifestyles. Beyond reducing traffic congestion, these initiatives reimagine our cities as spaces designed for people,” noted CCC vice chairman Robert Borje.
