Green EDSA movement launched

MANILA, Philippines — An initiative to transform EDSA into a tree-lined greenway and prioritize people’s mobility was launched yesterday, coinciding with the Earth Day celebration.

Speaking at the launching of the Green EDSA Movement, GEM chairman Eduardo Yap said the initiative was organized by civic-minded individuals to address climate change.

Yap said the goal is to transform EDSA, Metro Manila’s major thoroughfare, into a green highway.

He said they plan to restore the lost sidewalks by reducing car lanes with efficient mass transit and using reclaimed space to widen sidewalks and to plant trees on both sides of EDSA.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay, who was among those who joined the launch, committed to join efforts in making EDSA greener and friendly to pedestrians.

“I commit to work with the group to lead a calmer, tree-lined and landscaped thoroughfare with wide sidewalks conducive to walking,” Binay said.

She said they envision EDSA and Makati to have “green open spaces that encourage people to walk instead of drive.”

“We advocate for mobility with a clean, breathable and pollution-free space,” Binay said.

She said she would encourage property owners in Makati to support initiatives in transforming EDSA into an eco- and people-friendly greenway.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos also joined the launching of the EDSA Green Movement.