By Tracy Cabrera
INTRAMUROS, Manila — In response to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s call for energy conservation amid rising fuel prices, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is urging Metro Manilans to support its “walk-to-work” strategy under the agency’s urban mobility program.
Speaking at a media forum held at Ristorante Roma at the historic Manila Hotel, MMDA General Manager Nicolas “Nick” Torre III said the strategy will not only help save fuel but also encourage a healthy and disciplined lifestyle among citizens.
“Kung malapit lang naman ang ating pupuntahan, mas makakabuti para sa atin na maglakad upang makapagtipid tayo at maging malakas ang ating katawan at kalusugan at the same time,” the former Philippine National Police chief pointed out.
Aside from this strategy being promoted by the MMDA, Torre also disclosed that the agency is initiating efforts to fast-track the use of waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies, which could help conserve energy while supporting efficient waste management.
“We are coordinating with the Department of Energy (DOE) for a partnership with Meralco (Manila Electric Company) to initiate WtE projects and install solar panels in strategic areas around Metro Manila, such as waiting areas and loading and unloading zones for public transportation,” he said.
He added that charging stations will also be installed in these areas so that users of electric vehicles or hybrid automobiles can recharge their batteries.
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