It’s car-free day for Victorias City in Negros Occidental starting last October 2 and will continue every first Monday of the succeeding month as part of its campaign to reduce air pollution and promote a healthier environment for its residents.
The ordinance, which was approved by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez last month, designates three streets as car-free zones: Montinola Street, from the City Health Office to Victorias City Police Station; Yap Quiña Street, from Victorias Police City Station to the corner of Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center; and Jover Street, from Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center to 7-Eleven convenience store.
On car-free days, these areas will be exclusively accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized means of transportation. The goal is to promote sustainable mobility, reduce air pollution, and foster a greener environment.
Exemptions from the car-free day policy include residents living within the car-free zones, persons with disabilities (PWDs), elderly passengers, private and government vehicles transporting essential or significant goods or materials, and individuals who rely on motor vehicles for mobility.
The northern Negros city first implemented car-free zones last June 26 in line with the observance of Environment Week 2023. The initiative was well-received by residents, who expressed their support for the city government’s efforts to reduce air pollution and promote a healthier environment.
