Former MLQES principal, Ligaya Annawi, along with concerned citizens, the school administration, and the Parent-Teacher Association, joined forces to oppose the city’s plan to construct a parking building on the city-owned lot beside Manuel L. Quezon Elementary School (MLQES) in Barangay Military Cut-off. This opposition was voiced during the public consultation held on April 17, 2024, at the PFVR gymnasium.
Annawi emphasized the necessity of open spaces for children’s games and outdoor learning activities, as well as the area’s function as an evacuation site during calamities. She expressed concerns that building a parking facility in this location would contribute to air pollution and traffic noise. Annawi proposed instead that the area be developed with benches, leveled ground, and a drainage canal.
Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong assured transparency in his administration and stated that the project is merely a proposal. He emphasized his commitment to considering the sentiments of the people, which is why the public consultation was organized.
Architect Ellaine Ganga from the City Buildings and Architecture Office outlined the building’s design features, which include a futsal sports area on the roof deck for students, a living wall of plants and greenery to act as a carbon dioxide filter, a water harvesting facility, a water recycling system to operate the building, solar power integration, and a smart parking system utilizing applications for pre-booking parking slots to reduce traffic congestion.
Atty. Rhenan Diwas from the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) discussed the reduction of carbon emissions by minimizing the number of vehicles searching for parking spaces on city roads.
Diwas explained, “Imagine the amount of fuel being combusted into the air by vehicles endlessly circling city roads in search of parking spots, whereas if we have designated parking areas, they can park and turn off their engines.”
The public consultation concluded with Mayor Magalong assuring attendees that all sentiments and public opinions would be taken into account by the city government.
