QCIM supports voluntary car-free day

MANILA, Philippines - The SMDC third Quezon City International Marathon (QCIM) set Dec. 4 is being pushed as a Car-Free Day along the major part of its route, Commonwealth Avenue and the UP Diliman campus, from 12 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“The growing popularity of this race is one great tool to emphasize that when it comes to basics, human energy is the best source of clean and renewable energy,” says Rudy Fernandez, chairman of the QCIM organizer, Executive Runners Club of the Philippines (Runnex).

“By simply keeping fit and healthy through running, walking, or biking, significant contribution can be made in reducing reliance on fossil fuels,” he added.

The organizers have enlisted the Alliance of Homeowners Association, Inc, through its president Jordan Tolentino to help promote the 12-hour Car-Free Day among the homeowners along the race route during the QCIM.

Through Mayor Herbert Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, the Quezon City government, the prime mover of the marathon, is likewise extending its assistance. Other race sponsors Hyundai Asia Resources Inc (HARI), Maxima Machineries, Accel, BPI, Meralco, Mizuno, SSS, Gatorade, Maynilad, Manila Water and media partners ABS-CBN, GMA, Aksyon Sports, NBN-Auto REVIEW, MBC, DZSR, Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin and Malaya Business Insight, are also pitching in their s-upport to this advocacy.

“With the combined efforts of the private and government sector, we are optimistic that the QCIM can help significantly in the city’s initiative to reduce its carbon footprint,” Fernandez said. One plan for the Car-Free Day information drive is to organize, prior to the QCIM, bike rides and runs/walks from City Hall to Fairview/Batasan and back.

The QCIM and its 5-K, 10-K, 21-K and 42-K events are likewise being utilized to help transform Commonwealth Avenue into one of the safest and most disciplined highways in the country.