Marikina: A model LGU

Aside from the fact that last Dec. 31’s year-end concert and pyromusical was a blast, I am but amazed as to how the City Government of Marikina together with its citizens maintain that kind of environment. Yes it is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. But, the city is in itself unique which is why it is considered the country’s “model” city today.

Marikina is a good, if not perfect, example of a city where the government is working for and with the people. I have seen several times how disciplined and law-abiding these citizens are. Today, they have proven it once more.

While walking along Shoe Avenue alongside with hundreds of people who watched last Dec. 31’s event, I saw a big group of pedestrians waiting for the traffic light to turn green. They were even having a countdown, shouting the numbers displayed on the traffic light. With 5 seconds remaining, the traffic enforcer told them to already cross the street. The people insisted to wait for the go signal.

Such is the attitude that this country needs. Marikina is here to show to us how it is to live in a well-managed city: a government and a people working for and with each other. I hope other cities, officials, and citizens follow their lead. There is hope for this country. – Reiner Lorenzo Jarabe Tamayo, 3rd Year, College of Nursing, UP Manila