The Manila local government successfully implemented the “Move Manila Carless Sunday” along Roxas Boulevard on Sunday, May 26.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan was joined by Vice Mayor John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto, city officials led by her husband Manila Health Department Chief Dr. Arnold “Poks” Pangan and city councilors led by Sixth District Councilor Philip Lacuna, who authored the ordinance.
The mayor led city officials and employees as well as groups of health and fitness enthusiasts in the activities held along the stretch of from Quirino Avenue to Padre Burgos Street.
The program launching was held at 5:30 a.m. at the corner of South Drive-Kalaw and Roxas Boulevard.
Both lanes of Roxas Boulevard covering the said stretch was closed to traffic from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Sunday to give way to physical activities in an effort to promote a healthy lifestyle among the residents.
The Car-less Sunday program was based on the ordinance introduced by Councilor Lacuna and was signed by Lacuna-Pangan.
Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB) Chief Dennis Viaje had been directed to put in effect a rerouting map and traffic personnel in total readiness for the Car-less Sundays.
The Manila Police District (MPD) headed by Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay was requested to ensure that road marshals will be present to ensure the orderly flow of people and activities with everyone's safety.
The mayor said that first-aid stations and water stations will be put in place for those who want their blood pressure checked, before venturing into any physical activities.
During the event, a Zumba Competition was also held with different school Parent-Teachers Associations (Manila SPTAs) and various sectors in Manila participating in activities like walking, jogging, running, biking, skateboarding and roller skating.
Meanwhile, the mayor thanked the food establishments located along the Roxas Boulevard service road which offered promotions in support of the program.