Lacson Street turned into a haven for runners and bikers this morning as Bacolod City’s Car-Free Sunday was launched from 5 am to 9 am. The program kicked off with a fun Zumba warm-up led by Coach Marky Crianza, setting a lively tone for participants as they started their active morning with happy endorphins kicking in.

Car-Free Sunday was initiated by Mayor Albee Benitez and adopted by our Sangguniang Panlungsod to encourage all Bacolodnons to engage in a healthier lifestyle that involves walking, running, or riding a bicycle. The stretch from 5th Street Lacson all the way to Ramos was closed to all motorized vehicles, providing an air pollution-free environment.

At the event, Mayor Albee was joined by Councilors Em Ang and Danna Barzo, along with City Administrator Lucille Gelvolea, LEDIPO Head Dr. Mae Llamas, Assistant City Vet Dr. Jec Cabuguason and BTAO head Patrick Lacson, while BacCHP Focal Person and Special Assistant to the Mayor Engr. Mae Cuaycong and City Engineer Loben Ceballos rode their bikes in support of a greener environment.

Barangay Captains Jing Banguanga of Brgy 2, Narda Pascua of Brgy 29, Hercy Sibug of Brgy 7, Johnny Esmil of Brgy 23, and Karl Magno of Brgy 14, walked the whole Lacson stretch with Mayor Albee and gave their full support to the program.

Numerous groups took this opportunity to exercise and stay active. The Bacolod PNP group, headed by CD Noel Aliño, kept the area safe as they actively participated in the activities.

Runner groups such as Bacolod Road Stallions, LCF Events, iRun Bacolod, and Team Halong were also happy to run freely on the streets. Energetic Zumba dancers came all the way from Granada to show their support. Lin-ay Sang Negros Kyla Romarate and 1st Runner-up Zoe Limson, both fitness and animal advocates, came to walk their dogs.

Artfull Gallery opened their shop to give free coffee to all the runners and Car-Free Sunday personnel.

The event was made possible with the help of different Bacolod LGU offices such as the City Mayor’s Office, BTAO, BacCHP, PIO, City Engineer’s Office, Office of the Building Administrator, CHO, and DRRMO.

Car-Free Sundays will continue its test run for the whole month of June.
(Source: Bacolod City Public Information Office)