Green groups call for ‘car-free day’

MANILA, Philippines - Various environmental groups will join forces on Nov. 25 to call for cleaner air and better health by observing at least one “car-free day” each year.

The participants will gather at Ayala Triangle in Makati City, and from there proceed to Ortigas Avenue in Pasig City.

Environment Secretary Ramon Paje said the event dubbed “Clean Air? Pwede!!!” seeks the implementation of at least one “car-free day” in Metro Manila’s roads every November in observance of the National Clean Air Month, and to lessen air pollution.

“Motor vehicles remain the country’s major source of air pollution in urban areas, and there is a need to consider the use of non-motorized transport,” Paje said.

He said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources supports the call of local government units like Makati and Pasig for a car-free day.