We are FAR and FREE from the traffic, here in Tomas Morato.
Poster created by Mark Flores as part of their immersion with 350 Pilipinas.
Metro Manila is a highly populated city which has long struggled with urban challenges.
The metro’s busy street contributes to environmental harm making it a hotspot for air pollution, which could affect the residents’ quality of life. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) launched a program to transform the public transport system, to complement that Metro Manila has established car-free zones in specific areas.
A photo of Tomas Morato Avenue street sign. Photo by: Mark Flores
In Quezon City, the local residents and neighboring citizens have gathered to welcome the first Sunday of February in a warm morning event known as “Car-Free, Carefree Sunday”, which allows the citizens to experience a traffic-free road, particularly in Tomas Morato Avenue— Where people were able to use the area to perform various activities such as jogging, walking, cycling; even other fitness programs namely Zumba, and Tai Chi.
The ‘Carless’ Sundays in Quezon City were first introduced to the public in August of 2024— Which was officially launched not later in December of the same year.
Additionally, these events are not only found in Quezon City. People can also experience non-vehicular sundays in other cities of Metro Manila, including Makati, Mandaluyong, Manila, Muntinlupa, and Taguig; as well as the car-free sundays in University of the Philippines, Diliman
A group of bikers organized a bike ride from Ayala, Makati going to Tomas Morato, Quezon City. Both cities conducted car-free sunday. Photo: Mark Flores
To further focus on the Car-Free Sunday in Tomas Morato, the section of the avenue between Alejandro Roces Avenue and Scout Rallos Street was enclosed from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM for the purposes of the event, where the public is observed to enjoy their personal activities.
Plenty of cyclists have also gathered with their pets to relax in the cool air as they glide down the road, they also received a complimentary Taho, a popular morning treat in the Philippines.
A selfie photo with the 350 Pilipinas bike squad, which composed of bike commuters and climate advocates. Photo from: Ara Alejo
Moreover, this challenge to more LGUs must adopt these positive initiatives on providing greener spaces and prioritizing public spaces that are inclusive and promote sustainable transport. Activities like the Car-free Sunday, put importance of the need on continuous development and integration of pedestrian-friendly roads in the city, not only it strengthens the safety of the people, but the accessibility and freedom to use the road as well.
Potential risks on the road are always present, but implementing policies that prioritize vulnerable road users and support environmental sustainability can help transform communities. By valuing accessibility, safety, and environmental responsibility, we can create roads that are truly designed for all.
The organization of 350 Pilipinas strongly believes that roads are meant to move people, not just vehicles— It should be accessible for the public to use.
References:
QC to continue car-free Sundays along Tomas Morato in 2025 Vince Angelo Ferreras, GMA Integrated News
QC launches car-free Sunday morning initiative on part of Tomas Morato Paige Javier, ABS-CBN News
Car-Free Sundays in NCR Lead the Way for Sustainable Cities Climate Change Commission
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19mS5e4yKd/ Quezon City Government official Facebook page
Malayo’t Malaya is an article written by Mark Flores and Carmela Rivera, the representatives from Trinity University of Asia – High School, who worked with 350 Pilipinas as part of their curricular requirements under the subject “Work Immersion and Career Advocacy”. This written documentary aims to cover the purpose of the car-free event held on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Why and how this is important for the people, and the environment along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City. This written piece will also be used as an introduction to those who are unfamiliar with the event, encouraging them to participate and engage as well.
Photos: Mark Flores | Written: Mark Flores & Carmela Rivera | Editor: Nadia Cruz