In 2019, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued the Department Memorandum Circular (DMC) No. 2019-121 in response to the former president’s State of the Nation address to clear roads of illegal structures and constructions. This issuance led to significant public debate. The discussion focused on how it affected people who depended on Portland cement concrete pavement. These people relied on it for their homes and businesses. Despite the chaos it caused, the rules were implemented within the 60-day timeframe. This resulted in the immediate restoration of clean and orderly sidewalks.

For the first time in my lifetime, the city experienced a remarkable transformation, becoming truly walkable. However, this progress was short-lived, as Filipinos, known for their resilience and adaptability, embraced their unique identity as “ningas kugon.” Over time, the structures and obstructions that had been cleared were restored, and the city reverted to its previous state.

My experience living in Australia for 18 months provided me with a new perspective on the value of walking as a mode of transportation. Upon returning to the Philippines, I was deeply disappointed to discover that our city had regressed to a state where walking was not only inconvenient but also challenging. This issue is not limited to the City of Iloilo. It is prevalent throughout the country. Sidewalks are often littered with debris. They are obstructed by vehicles and cluttered with vendors. While every individual has the right to walk through public spaces, it seems that public domain has become an exclusive privilege.

Walking offers numerous benefits that may not be immediately apparent. It contributes to traffic decongestion and provides essential physical activity for our population. Health concerns have been a persistent issue in the country, with diabetes accounting for 37,265 deaths in 2020 and heart diseases for 99,680, as reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority. In an effort to combat these rising death tolls associated with lifestyle patterns, the government has actively promoted active travel, encouraged cycling and walking as viable modes of transportation. During the Christmas season, the Department of Health issued Department Circular No. 2024-0455, which emphasizes the importance of active lifestyles (Section 2.c) and recommends incorporating 30 minutes of physical activity into daily routines, including visits to nearby public open spaces to enhance physical activity and mental well-being through rest, relaxation, and social interaction.

From San Agustin to the commercial area in Delgado-Valeria Streets, there are several obstructions. These include vehicles undergoing repairs. Motorcycles are being displayed. Trucks are being loaded or unloaded. The DMC of the DILG has identified only illegal structures and constructions as problematic. Still, it is important to note that the city also strives to be bicycle-friendly. It holds the title of the most bicycle-friendly city in the country. But, the traffic situation continues to worsen. Despite the city’s pride in its bike lanes, esplanades, and Diversion Road, the city’s infrastructure is primarily made up of other structures. These assets represent barely 10 percent. Sidewalks persist as a significant challenge in making the city truly walkable. The cost of clearing sidewalks is relatively low compared to the large investments made in building these infrastructures. It is pertinent to question whether cycling and walking are truly possible in the city as advertised. The city is not meeting the expectations of visitors. It also fails to meet the expectations of its Ilonggo residents. This underscores the need for immediate action to tackle these challenges.

One consideration is that nearly all public markets are at the same time undergoing reconstruction. Thus, there is no choice but to use sidewalks and roads for temporary markets. This is a fair solution. But, what about the other road sections? We are compelled to walk along narrow (and somewhat inhumane) sidewalks, and sometimes, the sidewalks are non-existent due to obstructions.

While the government takes pride in its infrastructure, the citizenry should demand outcomes that are more beneficial. As we take pride in our city’s image, we should make sure that navigating this beautiful city is worthwhile. We should focus not only on the aesthetically pleasing privately developed sidewalks of the new business district in Mandurriao. Additionally, the leisurely walkways of Iloilo Esplanade sparsely give connections to key locations in the city. Road clearing can significantly improve the city’s traffic conditions. It’s a simple action but offers a big solution to the current issues.