Butuan city: The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has approved a measure that institutionalizes a “Car-free Sunday” policy in this city. SP Ordinance No. 17-019-2025, approved during a regular session on Tuesday, designates sections of major thoroughfares that will be closed to vehicles every Sunday to promote sustainable mobility and green urbanism.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative aims to reclaim urban streets as safe, inclusive, and dynamic public spaces, promoting walking, cycling, running, and other forms of active recreation. The ordinance aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11, which seeks to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Authored by City Councilor Clint Dabalos, the measure also aims to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by increasing foot traffic and community patronage. The ordinance specifically indicates that the eastbound lane of J.C. Aquino Avenue from Robinsons Place to SM City shall be closed from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. The same lane from Robinsons Place to Bancasi Rotunda will be closed from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m.
Furthermore, the entire lane of the City Hall Rotunda along J. Rosales Avenue will be closed to vehicles, including Public Utility Jeepneys. The closure for routes 4 and 7 will be from 4 a.m. to 9 a.m., while the closure for route 8 will be from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Exempted vehicles include fire trucks, ambulances, police vehicles, and delivery trucks servicing establishments within the designated areas.
The City Transportation and Traffic Management Department will serve as the lead implementing agency.
