Marikina City Mayor Marcelino ‘Marcy’ Teodoro and Marikina First District Representative Marjorie Ann ‘Maan’ Teodoro lead the launching of the ‘Marikina Together: Car-Free Sundays’ on Gil Fernando Avenue. The city government also unveiled a mural that showcases the city’s culture. (MARIKINA LGU PHOTOS)
Marikina LGU launches car-free Sundays
THE city government of Marikina officially launched its “Marikina Together: Car-Free Sundays” which started yesterday to promote an active and healthier lifestyle.
From 6 to 10 a.m., the city transformed the stretch of Gil Fernando Avenue, which is about 700 meters, into a pedestrian- and bike-friendly space, to encourage residents to engage in outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, Zumba, and other recreational exercises.
Marikina City Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro and Marikina First District Representative Marjorie Ann “Maan” Teodoro led the launching as she emphasized the importance of open spaces for community well-being.
The mayor also said that Zumba will be regularly held every Sunday.
The initiative was part of the city’s ongoing efforts to promote eco-friendly and healthy urban living.
Mayor Teodoro also highlighted the environmental benefits of reducing vehicle emissions, even for a few hours every Sunday.
“Bukod sa kalusugan, malaking tulong ito sa ating kalikasan. Ang pagbawas ng sasakyan sa kalsada ay nangangahulugan ng mas malinis na hangin at mas tahimik na kapaligiran. Isa itong simpleng paraan upang ipakita natin ang ating malasakit sa kalikasan at sa isa’t isa,” he said.
The road closure covers Gil Fernando Avenue, from the corner of Guerilla Street (Xeland Marikina) to Comedor Restaurant.
Mayor Teodoro encouraged residents and visitors to participate weekly and enjoy the city’s car-free, stress-free environment.
Mayor Teodoro said that the Car-Free Sunday was suggested to the local government by the cyclists’ group Happy Pedal Project.
During the event, Mayor Teodoro and Cong. Teodoro also unveiled a new mural that celebrates the city’s commitment to sustainability, community, and culture.
The vibrant artwork along Gil Fernando Avenue would serve as a visual representation of Marikina’s dedication to providing green spaces, promoting an active lifestyle, and fostering unity among its residents.
They emphasized the importance of public art in shaping a city’s identity and strengthening community pride.
“Ito po ay pag-promote ng sining at kultura ng Marikina kung saan ang sentro ay pamilya. Para po tayong lahat ay nagkakasama-sama; masaya lang dito sa Marikina,” Cong Teodoro said.
Rene Salonga, one of the artists behind the mural, said that it took a total of 30 artists to finish painting the wall along Gil Fernando Avenue.
