QCU, QCHD, and DOH Lead Successful “Car-Free, Carefree Sunday” at Tomas Morato under PinaSigla-KalyeSugan Program
Tomas Morato Avenue once again transformed into a vibrant hub of health, wellness, and community engagement as the Quezon City Government, in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Quezon City Health Department, and Quezon City University (QCU), successfully conducted the PinaSigla KalyeSugan: Car-Free Sunday and Healthy Market on March 1, 2026.
The Car-Free, Carefree initiative is a regular program of the Quezon City Government held every Sunday from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM, temporarily turning Tomas Morato Avenue into a safe, car- less zone for walking, jogging, cycling, and community wellness activities. This week’s activity was further strengthened by DOH’s KalyeSugan campaign, which amplified the initiative’s public health component.
DOH’s KalyeSugan campaign was led by DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, in line with the national directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to expand preventive healthcare programs and encourage active lifestyles across local government units.
Zumba, Program Proper, and Community Celebration
The morning began with an energetic Zumba session from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM, drawing residents, students, families, and wellness advocates to exercise together in the open street.
Following the Zumba session, the program commenced with an opening prayer led by Tanghalang QCU Chorale. Mayor Joy Belmonte and DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa joined the community in dancing alongside fitness instructor Regine Tolentino.
Leaders highlight benefits of car-free initiative
Mayor Joy Belmonte reaffirmed that the weekly Car-Free initiative demonstrates Quezon City’s commitment to creating healthier urban spaces and strengthening community bonds. She also welcomed the positive response from QCitizens with the implementation of the car-free Sundays.
“Dati-rati po, marami pong ayaw sumuporta na isara ang kalsada. Natatakot ang mga negosyo na baka mawalan sila ng kita kapag sinara sa umaga. Pero the opposite happened. Dahil marami pong pumunta rito to take advantage of the opportunity to exercise, to breathe clean air, and to bond with their community, ay mas lalong lumakas po ang mga negosyo,” Mayor Joy said.
Meanwhile, Secretary Herbosa highlighted the importance of sustained physical activity, nutrition awareness, and community-based healthcare programs in building a resilient and healthier Philippines. He also underscored the health and environmental benefits of car-free spaces.
“Ang advantage ng open spaces, walang kotse. That means wala kang carbon monoxide, well, makaka-inhale kayo ng fresh air. Ang advantage ng open spaces, walang kotse. That means wala kang carbon monoxide, well, makaka-inhale kayo ng fresh air.”
Free Health Services for the Community
Participants also benefited from a range of free medical services, including:
- Diabetes, Hypertension, and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) screening
- HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) screening
- Dental check-up
- Breast and Cervical Cancer screening
A Healthy Market area was also established, featuring fresh vegetables and fruits, including participation from the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program, reinforcing the importance of nutritious food choices in promoting long-term health.
Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Urban Health
As the host institution, QCU expressed full support for the Car Free, Care Free program, aligning the initiative with its broader mission of promoting sustainability, community engagement, and public health education.
“Quezon City University is honored to serve as the host department for this important initiative. As a local university committed to sustainability-driven education and social impact, QCU proudly supports programs that promote wellness, strengthen community bonds, and transform public spaces into inclusive, health-promoting environments,” said Dr. Theresita V. Atienza, QCU President.
As one of the host departments, QCU mobilized students, faculty, staff, and community members to participate in group physical exercises, Zumba sessions, and wellness education activities. More than 150 QCians joined the affair.
#QCU
#1QCU
#QCURISE
#QCUWeRISEtogether
