To compensate for the lack of open spaces in the city, the Lopez Jaena Street in Barangay Sumilang, Pasig City will become a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly area every Sunday, starting on May 22.
The "People's Street" initiative was made through the efforts of the barangay council of Sumilang, and the Pasig City Transport Development and Management Office (CTDMO).
Recognizing Sunday as "car-less day", only pedestrians, bicycles, and light personal mobility devices may enter the street from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This will allow residents to have freedom and space to conduct their outdoor activities such as taking a stroll, bonding with friends and family, or even holding Zumba sessions.
It will also serve as a playground for children where they can roam safely without the dangers posed by incoming vehicles.
In a social media post, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto said there are barangays in the city that have no wide, open spaces fit for children to play in or adults to occupy for leisurely purposes without disruptive cars.
"Nakakatuwang makita na kahit once a week man lang ay may malaking free space para sa lahat, lalo na sa mga Bata (I'm glad to see that there's a free space reserved for people, especially children even if it's just once a week)," Sotto added.
The mayor said that three other barangays in the city have requested for similar arrangements with the Pasig CTDMO.
Other than Lopez Jaena Street, the Emerald Avenue in Barangay San Antonio, Pasig City is also a well-known People's Street that is open to the public.
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the street was closed off to vehicular traffic on both Saturdays and Sundays.
However, as it re-opened on Nov. 21, 2021 upon the loosening of Covid-19 restrictions, it was made available only every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for now.
Aside from helping to reduce the city's carbon footprint, the People's Street has become a venue for Sunday outdoor activities for residents and non-residents.
The CTDMO urged residents to continue following the Covid-19 health protocols such as wearing face masks, and observing physical distancing.