OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Can one day a week truly transform a city? In the heart of Manila, Makati is daring to experiment with car-free Sundays, an initiative that challenges ingrained habits and asks a crucial question: is our reliance on cars inevitable, or can we envision a future where streets belong to people, not just vehicles?
The initiative's appeal lies in its simplicity. Encouraging car-free days in a densely populated city like Manila, where public transport infrastructure struggles to keep pace, sounds intuitive. Yet, the reality is more nuanced.
Germany’s success with public transport, often cited as a model, hinges on extensive, well-coordinated networks. Manila, with its 15 million daytime residents, boasts a similar density advantage. But fragmented systems and lack of integration leave car owners unconvinced.
Looking beyond symbolism, the initiative faces a crucial test: can it translate aspiration into action? This requires addressing Manila’s transportation woes head-on.
Beyond car-free Sundays. We need to do the following:
Invest in infrastructure: Dedicated bus lanes, improved pedestrian walkways, and interconnected networks are crucial. Building a seamless system that caters to different needs, from daily commutes to weekend leisure, is key.
Prioritize integration: Fare harmonization and convenient transfers between buses, trains, and other modes are essential. A single-ticketing system, similar to those in many developed cities, would incentivize public transport use.
Address affordability concerns: While public transport can be economical in dense cities, concerns about reliability and safety persist. Investing in service quality, cleanliness, and security will attract more users.
Cycling’s potential beyond Makati:
The Philippine climate is a double-edged sword for cyclists. Sunny days are perfect for leisurely rides, but the scorching heat and unpredictable downpours deter many. Makati’s car-free Sundays can be a testing ground for solutions. Imagine improved designated shaded lanes and bike-sharing programs with waterproof gear. Additionally, secure parking with shower facilities near offices, as mandated by the commendable Quezon City Safe Cycling ordinance and practiced by some business owners, can entice even corporate professionals to ditch their cars for a healthier commute. Cycling-friendly zones could transform into “palengke” on wheels, offering shade and hydration options, showcasing the ingenuity of Filipino vendors.
Fuelled by the pandemic’s emphasis on health and outdoor activities, a nationwide “bike boom” has ignited awareness of cycling’s sustainability as an alternative transport mode. This momentum extends far beyond Makati, as evidenced by the recent Mobility Awards, a collaborative effort showcasing innovative initiatives promoting sustainable transportation nationwide. Baguio City, Iloilo City, Marikina City and Quezon City were recognized as top bike-friendly cities. From grassroots initiatives to private sector partnerships, this cross-sector collaboration demonstrates a growing commitment to building a more bike-friendly Philippines. Going beyond traditional categories, the awards also applauded the efforts of bicycle-friendly workplaces, large and standalone establishments, and everyday heroes like the “Siklista ng Bayan,” showcasing the multifaceted nature of the movement.
Political will and public support:
The initiative’s success hinges on sustained political will and public buy-in. Public education, highlighting the benefits of sustainable transportation, is essential. Engaging stakeholders, from commuters to transport operators, in the planning process fosters ownership and commitment. Interestingly, the Climate Change Commission is seeking the revival of the Bicycle Act, citing the harmful impact of mechanized modes of travel on both the environment and public health. This, taken with other worthy initiatives, adds a promising layer to Makati’s efforts. Congress has stepped up, allocating a substantial P1 billion boost to the Active Transport and Safe Pathways Program (ATSPP). This critical funding prioritizes protected bike lanes with physical separation, creating a safer environment for cyclists across the country.
A stepping stone to global aspirations:
Car-free Makati is not simply an isolated experiment. It echoes a global movement with a rich history. The first car-free Sundays were held in the Netherlands and Belgium in 1956, sparking a worldwide effort culminating in World Car-Free Day, celebrated annually on Sept. 22nd. Makati’s initiative becomes a microcosm of this global aspiration, daring us to imagine a future where car-free days are not just symbolic gestures, but stepping stones towards a healthier, more sustainable world. Are we ready to break free from our dependence on cars and embrace a future where the streets also belong to people, not just vehicles? The answer, like the open road ahead, waits to be written.