BACOLOD City – The city government is deliberating on two approaches to continue its “car-free Sunday” initiative during the MassKara Festival in October, following an extension ordered by Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez.
On September 10, Mayor Benitez signed Executive Order (EO) No. 149, extending the “car-free Sunday” program for two additional months, covering every Sunday from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m., from September to October 2024.
The order includes a temporary vehicular traffic ban on Lacson Street from B.S. Aquino Drive to South Capitol Road, known as the Lacson Tourism Strip, which will also host part of the Masskara Festival activities on October 25, 26, and 27.
According to the Secretary to the Mayor, Karol Joseph Chiu, adjustments may be necessary if the usual venue for “car-free Sunday” becomes obstructed by festival setups like tents, stages, and kiosks.
“We are looking at either suspending it or relocating the activity during the festival if the space is already occupied,” Chiu explained.
The initiative, previously ratified through multiple executive orders, seeks to promote sustainable transportation, enhance public health, and boost community engagement. It had been in effect every Sunday from June through August 2024.
Chiu also mentioned that the continuation of the “Car-Free Sunday” program is pending approval from the Sangguniang Panlungsod of a proposed ordinance. If approved, it would ensure the program extends for another two months, underscoring the city’s commitment to fostering a greener and more engaged community environment./PN
