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Moving Filipinos Sustainably: A Suppressed Right to Public Transportation
Authored by:
Dominica Emanuelle Peña, Ezekiel Joshua Pante, and Geo Paulo Tambalo
In 2021, Jude Esguerra, an Economics Advisor for Senator Risa Hontiveros, noted in his publication, called 'Revert or readjust? Metro Manila,' that one of the most crowded road systems globally exists in the Philippines’ largest metropolitan area [1]. Almost a year later, the city of Manila, which constitutes a fraction of the greater Metro Manila, was ranked 9th most beset by traffic congestion out of 389 cities worldwide [2]. In a rather convenient manner, redemption from these critical reviews was seemingly found by successive administrations in the grandiose of lofty skyways and sweeping expressways. But, with prioritizing the implementation of more infrastructure projects for vehicles, the constant pressure from dissatisfied road users appears to have blinded the government to every scientific call for transforming the existing car-centric transport system into something more mass-oriented.
From a health and environmental perspective, a transport system designed to fit more engines burning gasoline and diesel is the last thing Filipinos need. In 2023, air quality monitoring data revealed that certain areas in Metro Manila had excessive pollutants, which the Department of Environment and Natural Resources primarily linked to emissions from heavy traffic [3]. As such, many road users, pedestrians, and nearby residents are at risk from increasing hazardous byproducts of vehicular combustion, like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, hydrocarbons, benzene, and formaldehyde, which are all associated with malignant health conditions. Not just that, vehicle emissions also reduce the quality of living conditions as they are significant sources of greenhouse gas—the main contributor to another damaging phenomenon called global warming [4]. As the government and their corporate partners push for more roads to be built, the worst scenario is yet to come since a growing number of people want to buy their own private vehicle [5].
Organizations, such as the Move As One Coalition, have been advocating for ecologically sound modes of transportation and changing the norm—the dependency on private cars [6]. Much like the food pyramid, which primarily models healthy eating habits, the Mobility Pyramid above illustrates who and what to prioritize in creating a healthier transport system and relatively more “breathable” community. Evidently from the top half, people and public transportation must be the primary considerations, assuring their utmost safety and accessibility. If the destination is only a short distance away, walking must be the first undisputed option of Filipinos, implying the need for convenient walkways, pedestrian lanes, and green spaces. Without hesitation, one must also be able to choose to safely ride a bicycle or commute using a readily available, systematic network of jeepneys, buses, and trains. The lower half of the reverse pyramid, which presents the predominant figures of the current transport system, encapsulates the small significance of cars, which carry less people, and planes, which have significant emissions [7].
Though all positive outcomes are rooted in a mass-oriented transport system, the deciding power remains to believe otherwise. In fact, the building, widening, and maintenance of roads accounted for 99% of the P2.8 trillion road-based infrastructure budget between 2010 and 2021, leaving only 1% or Php 40 billion for the improvement of public transportation. This choice of allocation can be argued as a misrepresentation of the majority since, according to the Move as One Coalition, 70% of Metro Manila residents depend on public transportation, which occupy only 22% of the available road space. Meanwhile, the remaining 30% of residents in Metro Manila who rely on private vehicles occupy approximately 78% of the road space [8].
The people constitute the success of a nation. With all this knowledge at the government’s disposal, any act of delaying or botching public transportation projects for self-vested interests can be construed as a willful disregard of the environment and the majority of Filipinos. No longer must commuters experience dealing with lengthy queue lines, crammed public transport vehicles, lack of proper walkways, difficult ramps, and polluted environmental conditions. May the deciding power heed the call of tired students, struggling workers, the physically disabled, and honorable senior citizens for a right and just transition to a mass-oriented transport system in the Philippines,
REFERENCES
[1] J. Esguerra, “MANILA Revert or readjust? Designing mobility for liveable and social cities.” Available: https://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/vietnam/18791.pdf
[3] G. K. Cabico, “Advocates urge prioritization of active mobility to combat air pollution,” Philstar.com, Sep. 26, 2023. https://www.philstar.com/.../advocates-urge... (accessed Jan. 21, 2024).
[4] Department of Ecology: State of Washington, “Reducing car pollution - Washington State Department of Ecology,” Wa.gov, 2019. https://ecology.wa.gov/.../what.../reducing-car-pollution.... (accessed Jan. 21, 2024).
[8] K. Dela Peña, “Sensible public transport: A post-pandemic dream,” INQUIRER.net, Oct. 28, 2021. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/.../sensible-public.... (accessed Jan. 21, 2024).
Author: Geo Paulo Tambalo and Joshua Ezekiel Pante
Graphic Designer: Astrid Apellado
Pasig River In Retrospect
The Pasig River is a rightful Filipino treasure for its countless contributions to the nation’s history and success. Without its strong currents, natural interconnectedness, and formerly pristine waters, Manila would not have had the Tagalogs establish early civilization and the rest of the world subsequently rushing in for economic activity, development, and cultural and religious exchange. Even the very appearance of the capital city can be attributed to the river itself, as it allowed the lucrative Manila-Acapulco galleon trade to continue from 1565 to 1815 and eventually influence the infrastructures being built. Despite its utility in Filipino triumph and everyday life, the Pasig River was neglected and left to become a dumping ground of polluting waste, thus obtaining the "biologically dead" status [1].
A Looming Threat to Pasig River’s Potentials
With the Philippine government giving the green light to the Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) project, the two decades' worth of multisectoral rehabilitation efforts put into the Pasig River may all come to waste. At 19.37 kilometers long and six lanes wide, the proposed infrastructure by San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is elevated to traverse the entirety of the Pasig River and, more importantly, create more traffic space between the eastern and western sections of Metro Manila. SMC has control measures, as indicated in their Environmental Impact Statement, that address some emerging ecological concerns associated with the PAREX, like dredging to prevent flooding and waste removal to counter existing solid waste pollution [2]. However, an elevated expressway constructed on the riverbanks, partially covering the entire river, is nothing short of a structural limitation to the many potentials of Pasig River.
Potential to Support Diverse Forms of Life
Though SMC believes otherwise [3], the Pasig River is not dead. The river, including its banks, has now become home to 118 species of trees and vegetation, 39 species of birds, eight species of fish, and several aquatic plants, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) [4]. Life is especially evident for the groups of Filipino fisherfolks who have even shared their daily catches from the river, like "tilapia" and "hito," on social media platforms. Aside from sustenance, the Pasig River supports Filipino lives by providing space for recreation and a reliable route for humanitarian aid during earthquakes and other natural calamities [5].
But, should PAREX be built, the maximum potential of the Pasig River to support life may remain unfulfilled. Among the many possible ecological impacts of riverine highway development noted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency are the immediate destruction, fragmentation, and degradation of natural habitats, pollution from vehicular and construction processes, and disruption of soil and river processes, including the increased risk of flood, erosion, and chemical contamination in the long run [6]. Meanwhile, science advocates slam the elevated expressway for partially blocking the natural sunlight needed for making oxygen available to the recovering food chains in Pasig River [7].
Potential to Become a Natural Transportation Route
A perfect example of utilizing the water transportation capacity is the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS). Unbeknownst to many Filipinos, despite being free of charge, this alternative mode of transport also links Metro Manila's eastern and western sections, from Escolta to Pinagbuhatan, while taking its passengers on a tour of several cultural landmarks along Pasig River, like the Manila Post Office. However, PRFS remains limited in services, with only 11 boats, each capable of carrying 36 to 55 passengers, and 12 stations [8].
SMC claims that PAREX, a project devoid of taxpayers' money, may complement the PRFS during its operational phase [9]. Though this ultimately suggests that Filipinos may fully maximize their monetary contributions, researchers suggest such an outcome is unlikely. The internationally recognized Braess Paradox states that new roads result in further traffic congestion in congested urban transportation networks [10], like the one in Metro Manila. Poor traffic flow is still the most likely case in the future since PAREX is designed to accommodate—and inevitably encourage—more private than public vehicles.
Potential to Protect Communities from Extreme Natural Events
Since time immemorial, the Pasig river has been protecting its vicinity from heat waves and flooding. Its natural ability to prevent the sun’s heat from being emitted back to ambient air keeps surrounding cities relatively cool [11]. With its constant currents, the Pasig River also keeps erratic rainwater from flooding communities [12].
PAREX presents the people near Pasig River with assurance and uncertainty. More heat-absorbing concrete structures from PAREX–and less sunlight reflected by the river–could only mean extreme heat incidents that threaten the lives of vulnerable Filipinos and other organisms. As the DENR still probes for the possible environmental impacts of the project, Filipinos are left with uncertainty over the effectiveness of dredging against floods [13].
Pasig River vs PAREX: The Final Verdict
Prioritizing the mobility of cars over the mobility of people, PAREX is just another life-depleting structure, a primary source of pollutants, and a structural symbol of non-inclusivity and environmental imprudence. Given that only about 12% of Metro Manila households own at least one car [14], the government must instead divert its political will from band-aid traffic solutions to long-term improvements on public transportation, waste management, and green spaces for the majority. Investments must not be made in such environmental risk that is ultimately incapable of addressing the increasing volume of private road vehicles—the underlying reason behind Metro Manila's traffic woes.
References
1.
Gilles SN. Revitalization of the Pasig River Through the Years: Bringing a Dying Ecosystem Back to Life [Internet]. Muhon Journal for UP College of Architecture (draft for review)2019 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.academia.edu/5765195/Revitalization_of_the_Pasig_River_Through_the_Years_Bringing_a_Dying_Ecosystem_Back_to_Life
2.
San Miguel Corporation Infrastructure. Project Description for Scoping: Pasig River Expressway Project [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023 Sep 24]. Available from: https://eia.emb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/PDS-Pasig-River-Expressway-Project.pdf
3.
Mangubat L. Pushback against the 19.4km PAREX, explained [Internet]. Spin.ph2021 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.spin.ph/life/cars-and-tech/the-parex-protests-explained-a1017-20210929-lfrm
4.
The Philippine Star. The Pasig River: Our nation’s lifeline [Internet]. Philstar.com2019 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.philstar.com/business/science-and-environment/2019/07/28/1938828/pasig-river-our-nations-lifeline#:~:text=More%20than%2030%20million%20kilograms,fish%2C%20and%20several%20aquatic%20plants
5.
GMA Public Affairs. “Trip to Pasig,” dokumentaryo ni Howie Severino | I-Witness [Internet]. YouTube2023 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiWqL1uq9f8&ab_channel=GMAPublicAffairs
6.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. Evaluation of Ecological Impacts from Highway Development [Internet]. 1994 [cited 2023 Sep 24]. Available from: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-08/documents/ecological-impacts-highway-development-pg_0.pdf
7.
Mangaluz J. DENR still probing possible environmental impact of PAREx [Internet]. INQUIRER.net2023 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1793793/denr-still-probing-possible-environmental-impact-of-parex
8.
Naguna JL. Looking for a better commuting experience? The Pasig River Ferry Service might be for you [Internet]. PIA2023 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://pia.gov.ph/features/2023/03/31/looking-for-a-better-commuting-experience-the-pasig-river-ferry-service-might-be-for-you
9.
San Miguel Corporation. SMC reaffirms commitment to build PAREX sustainably, reports gains in Pasig River cleanup initiative [Internet]. Sanmiguel.com.ph2022 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.sanmiguel.com.ph/news/smc-reaffirms-commitment-to-build-parex-sustainably
10.
Nagurney A, Nagurney L. The Braess Paradox [Internet]. 2020. Available from: https://supernet.isenberg.umass.edu/articles/braess-encyc.pdf
11.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. Learn About Heat Islands | US EPA [Internet]. US EPA2014 [cited 2023 Sep 25];Available from: https://www.epa.gov/heatislands/learn-about-heat-islands
12.
Pedrajas J. PAREX would bring more heat, more flooding in NCR, various groups warn [Internet]. Manila Bulletin2021 [cited 2023 Sep 25];Available from: https://mb.com.ph/2021/09/29/parex-would-bring-more-heat-more-flooding-in-ncr-various-groups-warn/
13.
Mangaluz J. DENR still probing possible environmental impact of PAREx [Internet]. INQUIRER.net2023 [cited 2023 Sep 25];Available from: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1793793/denr-still-probing-possible-environmental-impact-of-parex
14.
Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities. “Liberate the 88%!”: Rep. Legarda echoes experts’ calls to prioritize Metro Manila majority of non-car owners [Internet]. ICSC | Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities2020 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://icsc.ngo/liberate-the-88/
Bernarditas De Castro-Muller was a former Filipina diplomat and climate change negotiator. She was a special and environmental adviser for South Centre and the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines respectively. She had represented the Philippines in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) since its inauguration in 1994 and the chief player in representing and negotiating for her country and for developing countries in the negotiations for the Kyoto Protocol in 1997.
She led negotiations for the G77 and China negotiating bloc, where the Philippines is affiliated, championing ever so passionately the interests of the poorest countries in climate talks especially in the provision of climate finance, paving the way for the eventual creation of the green climate fund.
In a written statement of Senator Loren Legarda during Ms. Bernadita’s passing last December 14, 2018, she says “her fierce negotiating style had earned her the name "dragon woman"--a character feared by industrialized countries but adored by poor countries. She would however always insist that she was not working for the developing countries, rather for their children's children and what we will leave the world." The Philippines will always pay tribute to Ms. De Castro-Muller’s imprint to the present and future advocates in the Philippines
Anna Rosario Oposa
Anna Rosario Oposa, dubbed the Chief Mermaid, has been protecting and conserving the Philippine seas and coasts as a marine conservationist and co- founder of the Save Philippine Seas by mobilizing seatizen-led initiatives for collective action and behavior change.
Anna graduated with the Bachelor of Arts in English Studies from the University of the Philippines-Diliman in 2011, and earned her MSc in Conservation Science (Merit) from Imperial College London in 2015 through the Chevening scholarship. In 2017, she was one of the three Global Fellows in Marine Conservation at the Duke University Marine Laboratory. She also received The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service (TOWNS) award for marine ecology, an accolade recognizing women “who have shown outstanding dedication, exceptional talent, and a history of contributing positively to society.”
Anna protects the country’s coastal marine resources through a unique arrangement of conservation approaches that flow and feed into each other as it reinforces the core objective of empowering young scientists, activists, and leaders as change-makers for the environment. The TOWNES awardee, through education and community-based projects, inspired many youth to value our oceans.
Regina Paz “Gina” La’o Lopez
Regina Paz “Gina” La’o Lopez was a former environment Secretary of the Philippines, philanthropist, eco-warrior, and fervent activist against destructive mining practices.
In both the business and public sectors, Lopez was most recognized for her campaign against mining practices in her nation. In 2010, she teamed up with the Palawan NGO Network Inc. (PNNI) to organize the Save Palawan Movement, a confederation that pushed for a complete mining ban on the island of Palawan, which is home to an underground river and cave system that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. She started a petition against mining, which attracted a historic 10 million signatures. By 2012, then-President Benigno Aquino Jr. signed an executive order prohibiting the issuance of new mining licenses.
Afterwards, Ms. Lopez landed the job of acting environment secretary when President Rodrigo Duterte came to power in 2016. She wasted no time in going after major mining companies that she said had flagrantly violated environmental laws. She ordered 23 mines to shut down and several others to suspend operations, and canceled 75 lucrative contracts for mines that she said threatened watersheds.
Salvador Panelo, a spokesman for Mr. Duterte, called her one of the country’s “most passionate cabinet members” and said her “environmental advocacy and legacy remains unparalleled to this day.”
“She fiercely fought powerful interests in the mining sector, as well as in industries having negative effects on our ecology,” he added.
Ms. Lopez passed away last August 19, 2019 at the age of 65 years old after multiple organ failure related to her brain cancer; however, she remains as a leader to look up to and an inspiration to many for her courage and kindness.
UsKa offers its highest respect to these said leaders for their engagement towards environmental protection and advocacy. They pioneered a sense of responsibility to many Filipinos out there and received towering respect across national borders. As Earth Hour is just right around the corner, the organization takes time to bring into the spotlight their background and success towards the environmental community.
The Climate Crisis: A Call to Action for Governments and Citizens Alike
Author: Joshua Ezekiel Pante
Graphic Designer: Miguel Teodoro
On April 22, 2023, we commemorated Earth Day 43 years after its establishment. Earth Day is an important day that brings millions of people together worldwide to demand action and accountability for the ongoing climate crisis. It raises awareness, encourages cooperation, and catalyzes governments to take action to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. Earth Day started in the U.S.A. in the 1970s, and now it has reached globally - this shows the increasing importance of the environment for our survival and well-being of people around the world.
Climate Change threatens the very foundations of our planet - the ecosystem, environment, and society as we speak. An increase in temperature, even if it’s just 1°C, poses an extreme danger, such as rising sea levels, an increase in severe weather events, and unbearable temperatures. The Philippines is one of the most vulnerable and affected countries, even though it is one of the countries that have the least annual carbon emission production [1].
The Philippines has experienced and continues to experience extreme environmental disasters, such as building the Kaliwa Dam, which may be detrimental to the environment and impact indigenous people's rights. The Mindoro Oil Spill had 270,000 liters of diesel fuel spilled into the waters surrounding Mindoro Island. This greatly damaged the local ecosystem, affecting the livelihoods of many fishermen in the area. Similarly, disrupting nature— as in the case of the Kaliwa Dam may cause lessening our natural barrier against typhoons - increases the possibility of flooding and landslides. Not to mention, the gross violation of the rights of the indigenous people, Dumagat Remontados. The national and local government has done nothing to support the livelihoods of the Filipinos affected by these disasters; instead, they continue to support the perpetrators of these disasters at the expense of their people and the environment [2].
Despite the challenges, Filipinos across the country continue to be proactive in fighting for their community and the environment. This Earth Day, the symbolic gesture reminds us that our environment is essential to survival and well-being. People worldwide are protesting, campaigning, and making speeches to make their voices heard because we only have one planet, and we need to take action now to make a difference. Earth Day serves as an impetus for change and a call to unite in working towards a sustainable future.
We at UsKa, stand with everyone who continues to fight for the environment and the people. We, as the youth, know the gravity of climate change and the urgent need to address its consequences. We express our solidarity with all those working to make a positive impact towards creating a sustainable future for our world and the generations to come.
References:
[1] Ritchie, H., Rosado P., Roser, M. (2022). CO₂ and Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Our World in Data. 'https://ourworldindata.org/co2-and-greenhouse-gas-emissions'
[2] Gascon, M. (2023, March 15). Gov’t failures bared in Mindoro oil spill. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/…/govt-failures-bared-in…
[3] Cabico, G. (2023, April 22). Oil spill-hit communities demand swift action, justice on Earth Day. Philstar. https://www.philstar.com/…/oil-spill-hit-communities.
