Walkable cities give people the freedom to move freely and safely because it is designed to encourage physical activities such as jogging and biking.
In a country where urban sprawl thrives, creating walkable cities in the Philippines has become a necessity more than a luxury. It promises a space that extends beyond convenience, improved quality of life, and fosters positive social change.
Walkable cities give people the freedom to move freely and safely because it is designed to encourage physical activities such as jogging and biking. Principal architect-urban planner and founder of Palafox Associates Felino “Jun” Palafox, Jr. highlighted that these spaces encourage cardiovascular health, mental well-being and overall quality life.
On an economical aspect, walkable cities can boost local commerce through foot traffic that leads to business establishments. They also attract tourists who appreciate the accessibility of pedestrian-friendly areas.
As green zones, these spaces reduce the community’s reliance on motorized vehicles, thereby cutting air pollution, and traffic.
This was also pointed out by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), where shifting to environment-friendlt zones promote sustainable urban living.
Sensing its benefits to the society, some cities in the Philippines have already embraced walkability. For one, Pasig City has eight People’s Street, and a “car-free Sunday” initiative where major streets are closed to private and public vehicles.
Makati boasts of tree-lined streets, wide walkways, and urban patios along its business districts, while Vigan, a well-known UNESCO Wold Heritage City, lures visitors with its car-less Calle Crisologo.
Iloilo, on the other hand, boasts its beautiful Esplanade and dedicated bike lanes, much like Marikina that pioneered organized bike lanes.
