It’s about time the country’s policy makers put laser focus on radically improving the lives of everyday pedestrians. An airtight plan to improve infrastructure and systems for pedestrians will surely guarantee a significant impact in the country’s economy. It’s baffling that there still isn’t a strong initiative to set things in motion nationwide (or, at the very least, in the capital city).

Equally busy cities like Bangkok, Thailand, have prioritized convenience, and therefore Bangkok ranked number one in the most visited cities in 2024. Majority of the area is not just walkable, it’s safe and scenic. Tourists most especially benefit from this. It grants them the chance to explore the city, see new places, and spend their cash, all while on foot safely and pleasantly. High foot traffic, security, money to spend, and good vibes all around—the perfect combination to boost businesses and industries.

The Thai city has mastered the integration of orderly foot paths, and various choices for public transportation including riverboats. There are also walkable zones linking corporate buildings to commercial centers. These are totally accessible to all pedestrians allowing such convenience when traveling on foot. Escalators and lifts for seniors and the disabled are fully functional and generously situated, connecting pedestrians to the city’s progressive mass transit system.

Looking inward, the Philippines need not fall so far behind. Like Bangkok, Metro Manila is a riverine city. However, there seems to have been a misfocus in direction. One indicator is the common complaint from both locals and tourists alike that sidewalks are not passable, and commuting even to short distances is very confusing if you are not from the particular area. The level of inconvenience to the point of agitation and rage should not be the norm.

Our capital city is bursting with busy pedestrians every day walking to and from work or running errands. The daily environment should provide the ability to move freely without unnecessary setbacks. Inconveniences kill motivation and drain energy each day, taking a toll on work output, which leaves a negative impact on both personal and economic growth. Convenience and safety should be prioritized. But attractiveness comfort, continuity, and quality should go hand-in-hand.

Metro Manila is a city built for cars. Are the sidewalks built for those who can’t afford cars? Given the current state, the low standards reveal the answer. However, the worsening traffic in both rural and urban areas weakens the argument that owning a car is the exclusive solution for convenient mobility.

For a country to actually prosper, the most basic and affordable mode of transportation should never be overlooked. Walking plays an important role in the growth of a country and its people. It provides exercise and general well-being. It allows for a sense of inclusion being in the presence of fellow citizens, combating ‘out-of-touchness’ and the lack of awareness toward others.

A seamless pedestrian system should be world-class. It will invite tourists to explore more confidently on foot and enjoy their experience. More important, it will dramatically improve the lives of the everyday Filipino workforce—the backbone of the country—to exert themselves where they should, instead of wallowing in despair and exhaustion during the daily commute. Boosting the country’s economy to further heights is a certainty with efficient pedestrian mobility in place. When we get more, we give more.