Pasig City, a h
ighly urbanized municipality in the eastern part of Metro Manila is bent on proving that pursuing progress and caring for the environment are no strange bedfellows. Its official website has it that since it launched its Green City Program in 2006, Pasig City has surpassed its target of planting 20,000 trees by 2010 and has reduced its solid waste by 29% through the implementation of waste segregation and recycling programs. Its ‘green’ initiatives also include a Smoke-Free Campus Campaign and a Bike Loan Program that allows city government employees to purchase bicycles through installment terms. In cooperation with market vendors and food establishments, it likewise regulates the use of plastic as food containers in the city.
Last Sunday, June 3, 2012, the city government in cooperation with civil society groups launched its “Bike Day, Health Day, Carless Day Program” in line with the Pasig Green City vision. Both lanes of Emerald Avenue (now F. Ortigas Jr. Road) were closed to motor vehicles from 6:00 am to 12:00 noon. The area will be car-free on Sunday mornings thereafter.
So what’s there to do on a Carless Sunday?
1. Bike to your heart’s content.
There are also recumbent bikes and segways out there for rent…
2. Play games, like these guys enjoying sepak takraw.
3. Watch talented performers on stage. Didn’t hear the name of this group, but their shirts say ‘Sandugo Drummers.’
4. Kick up your heels.
5. Warm the benches at Ortigas Park.
6. Indulge your cravings.
7. Meet up with like-minded groups.
8. Walk the doggie, with the whole family in tow.
9. Support local livelihood programs, buy eco-friendly goods.
10. Catch an infectious smile on cam.
Conquering the streets is so much fun! Do something new next Sunday. Go carless. Go green.
Salt & Pepper 