Entayo magna

THE pedestrianization of roads, which is encouraged in many developed countries, is said to be a sign of ‘people-oriented’ cities. Unfortunately in our place, the idea has always met opposition, obviously due to barriers that include; merchants’ and transpor t convenience, and those who care less about the benefits of a ‘ balanced and healthful ecology’.

In an overseas training we had in Japan three years ago, we had the opportunity to be immersed in many cities from Osaka, to Kobe, to Matsuyama and its neighboring Omishima Islands. All of the cities and towns there encourage people to walk, or ride a bike, despite their efficient public transportation. While at the Ehime town hall for a courtesy call, we saw the town’s mayor walking towards us from a kilometer a way. The Mayor, who is wearing an ID like a kindergarten, told us how most people walk 3 -5 kilometers to get to their work and school. “In our country, people there do not want to walk!” my friend humorously replied. The official, who was not laughing, looked rather amused.

My friends from Manila dissected the whole experience during that day’s dinner. “How can we have a culture of walking when there is no side walk to speak of? Even if there is, it is used as a parking lot?” said the one from Pasay. “Is it even safe to walk at night in there?” added the one from Quezon City. “Iba kasi talaga sa atin no?” said the Mindanaoan. They asked me about Baguio City and Benguet, and I said, “…still the safest in the country!”. “Hindi nga? Di ba every night may balita na may bugbugan sa inyo?” the Manilena teased. “Hindi… nagprapractice lang sila ng MMA. Mahilig kasi kami sa Martial Arts doon eh” I grinned.

An urban planner I met in Singapore lectured that, “Pedestrianization reduces obvious social inequalities…why would a private car owner have more rights to public spaces than the ordi-