QC to continue car-free Sundays along Tomas Morato in 2025

The Quezon City  local government announced on Monday that it will continue to implement car-less Sunday mornings at a portion of Tomas Morato Avenue this 2025 to encourage residents to have an active lifestyle and reduce carbon emissions.

The city government’s “Car-Free, Carefree Sundays” was first launched in December 8 last year wherein a segment of the avenue was closed from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. allowing the public to jog, run, bike, and do recreational activities.

The program stems from the ordinance proposed by QC 4th District Councilor Irene Belmonte.

“Layon ng ordinansa na isulong ang pagpapahalaga sa kalusugan sa pamamagitan ng pag-promote sa active mobility, maglaan ng mas ligtas na lugar para sa publiko, at makatulong sa paglago ng kabuhayan at mga negosyo sa paligid ng Tomas Morato,” she said in a statement.

(The ordinance aims to give importance to health through the promotion of active mobility, allocate a safer space for the public, and help in boosting businesses around Tomas Morato.)

The road closure covers the stretch along Tomas Morato Avenue from Timog Avenue to Don Alejandro Roces Avenue.

Starting this year, the initiative will be held every first Sunday of the month from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

But after a year, the program will be held every other Sunday of the month.

“Car-Free Sundays reflect our vision of a sustainable, people-first Quezon City. We want to encourage outdoor activities, promote healthy living, and support our commitment to environmental sustainability,” said Mayor Joy Belmonte in a statement.

Quezon City also earlier rolled out 41-seater electric buses, traveling from  Quezon City Hall to Cubao and vice versa, in a bid to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% in 2030.
—Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News