New traffic scheme at Intramuros to encourage walking, exercise – DOH

In the shadows of ancient Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila, a calesa ((horse-drawn cart) carry tourists. AFP

MANILA, Philippines – The new traffic scheme at the historic Intramuros in Manila City will not only be good for tourism but for the health too.

The Department of Health (DOH) lauded on Sunday the traffic plan, which has been aimed at redeeming the cobbled streets of the Walled City for pedestrian use, saying that it would also help local and foreign tourists walk toward a healthier lifestyle.

In an interview with reporters, the DOH spokesperson, Dr. Lyndon Lee Suy, said the new traffic regulations, which the Intramuros Administration (IA) started implementing this month, would boost the government’s campaign on healthy lifestyle and promote the benefit of walking among Filipinos.

“Discovering Intramuros by foot is a good way to exercise,” said Lee Suy who described walking as the cheapest and simplest way to lose weight and boost one’s immunity.

He said regular walking would lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. It also helps lower bad cholesterol and maintain normal blood pressure, according to Suy.

The new traffic regulations, which the IA started implementing on March 2, also include prohibitions on parking along certain roads.

Under the new rules, only southbound vehicles are allowed to pass through the General Luna Street, from Muralla Street to Andres Soriano Avenue.

San Agustin Church, the Casa Manila Complex, the Knights of Columbus, the National Commission on Culture and the Arts and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila are among the historic landmarks and institutions along General Luna.

While stressing the importance of walking outside, Lee Suy also advised the public to be careful not to become too exposed to the sun, especially with the forthcoming summer season, to avoid heat stroke.

“The risk of getting a heat stroke increases during hot and humid weather, especially if you are engaged in physical activity, dehydrated or exposed directly to the sun for too long,” advised the DOH official.

He said those who want to explore Intramuros during the summer must be conscious of the amount of time they would spend outdoors and should drink sufficient amount of water. He also advised against consuming tea, coffee, soda and alcohol during these walking tours.

Heat stroke, characterized by an elevated body temperature and the absence of sweat despite the hot weather, is one of the most common illnesses during the summer season.

Among its other symptoms are nausea, vomiting, flushed skin, headache and confusion. It can lead to shock, seizure, brain damage, comatose and even death if the symptoms are not relieved promptly. –Jocelyn R. Uy