Emerald Avenue in Pasig City brings back Open Street Sundays

Do you live in the Pasig City area and need a break from the hustle and bustle of the urban sprawl? As we slowly embrace post-pandemic life, some of us may have trouble going back to the busy lifestyle. Well, the city government has you covered.

Pasig City and Barangay San Antonio (BSA) have relaunched Open Street Sundays along Emerald Avenue, barring cars every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The closure is effective from November 21 and allows residents from the area and nearby areas to have space for jogging, cycling, and other recreational activities.

While this is certainly good news for most people, some motorists may not be aware of car-free Sundays on Emerald Avenue. We advise drivers to take alternate routes if passing by the area. Traffic volume could increase considerably in the coming weeks, especially as the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) seeks to reimpose the number coding scheme. Expressways like the Skyway Stage 3 could also experience heavier traffic.

As the 500-meter thoroughfare is exclusive to pedestrians during the covered hours, scooters and motorcycles may not be allowed in addition to cars. However, light personal mobility devices like electric kick scooters are permitted.

There's also a weekend market available for visitors, but car-owners are advised to park their vehicles elsewhere. The area has plenty of parking spaces in the area, so motorists should have no problem finding an appropriate spot. 

According to BSA, the initiative was relaunched to promote free and open public spaces in Pasig City. As Metro Manila is currently under Alert Level 2, the local government advises visitors to observe basic health and safety protocols for a safer outdoor experience. BSA will also deploy designated safety officers to monitor safety standards each week as part of the Open Street Sundays program.