BACOLOD City – Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez is considering moving the start time for the city’s “Car-Free Sunday” earlier to avoid the heat and minimize disruption to motorists on the Lacson Tourism Strip.
The initiative, launched on June 9, follows Executive Order No. 035 signed by Benitez on May 28, designating every Sunday from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. this month as car-free.
The 1.2-kilometer stretch of Lacson Street, from Cottage Road to Ramos Street (South Capitol Road to B.S. Aquino Drive), is closed to all motorized public and private vehicles during these hours.
Engineer Mae Cuaycong, special assistant to the Mayor, mentioned that they would recommend making the program permanent due to its positive reception.
“We are considering an earlier start time. Mayor Benitez suggested 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. to avoid the heat at 9 a.m. and reduce inconvenience for vehicles,” Cuaycong stated.
The launch event was led by local officials, including city council members and department heads. Participants included groups from the Philippine National Police, joggers, health enthusiasts, and bikers.
Last week, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) passed the first reading of a proposed ordinance for car-free Sundays in Bacolod City. The measure aims to protect the environment, promote good air quality, raise public awareness of sustainable travel modes, and encourage physical activity among residents.
Frank Carbon, CEO of the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), praised the program, highlighting its benefits for reducing pollution and creating opportunities for local businesses.
“Stores along the jogging stretch could set up coffee tables and earn money. We need more creativity and innovation from our officials,” Carbon said.
Executive Assistant Patrick Lacson, head of the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO), proposed shortening the car-free hours to 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. due to the heat.
“I suggested to Mayor Benitez to reduce the hours next week because it gets very hot at 9 a.m.,” Lacson explained./PN
