Malabon’s narrow roads stuck in Spanish times

INQUIRER Metro asked young “millennial” voters from the 16 cities and one municipality making up Metro Manila about their thoughts on the 2016 elections. Let’s hear it from a generation whose raw but telling views can be both a reminder of failed promises and a source of renewed hope.

(Sixth of a series)

ONE of the problems in our city that candidates in the 2016 elections should address has to do with our transportation system. History shows that Malabon, during the Spanish colonial rule, had roads built ideally for the “calesa” or horse-drawn carriages. To this day, its streets are narrower compared to those in Quezon City, for example.

As a result, traffic here is heavier and exerts such a big pressure on commuters, especially on those who need to be on time for work or meet deadlines.

Another problem concerns informal settlers. As a young professional, I can see that there is vision toward the city’s development, but it is hard for (local leaders) to proceed with any development plan if informal settlers are occupying government properties that are supposed to be used as sites for public facilities like hospitals, multipurpose halls and other infrastructure projects.

And lastly, waste management. People are part of the environment, so we are directly responsible for this. Based on my own observation, however, people are hardly aware of proper waste management, and it shows whenever there’s flooding caused by clogged waterways. Environmental problems like this can undo whatever progress we are making in Malabon.

The city government must be trying its best to overcome these scenarios. But the key to building a better community is not just enforcing local ordinances but making more people participate in our development efforts.