The Davao City Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office (SDD-CMO) has issued a stern warning to cyclists who are reportedly using the Davao City Coastal Road as an impromptu race track during the weekly Car-free Sundays. This initiative, designed to promote health and community enjoyment, is being undermined by reckless behavior that officials say will not be tolerated.
Safety Concerns Over Racing Activities
Michael Denton “Mikey” P. Aportadera, the officer-in-charge of SDD-CMO, emphasized in a recent interview with Madayaw Davao over Davao City Disaster Radio on January 20, 2026, that the coastal road is strictly for recreational and fitness purposes, not for racing. He highlighted that groups of cyclists have been observed forming and competing, which poses significant safety risks to all users.
"Ginagamit nila nga lumba-lumba diraa sa coastal road. Mag-grupo sila, maglumbaanay. Ginabawalan gyud na kay tungod ang Car-free Sundays sa coastal road is for everybody. Kanang coastal road, I have to warn you na it is not for racing, it is for recreational and physical fitness," Aportadera stated, underscoring the program's inclusive nature.
Purpose of Car-free Sundays
Car-free Sundays, held from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m., aim to foster a safe and healthy environment for families, runners, and cyclists. The northbound lane of the coastal road is designated for activities like running, walking, and jogging, while the southbound lane is reserved for cycling. This setup is intended to provide a structured space for physical fitness and community bonding.
Aportadera stressed that while the city encourages the use of the coastal road, it comes with a responsibility to ensure safety for all Dabawenyos. "Wala tamo ginabawalan mugamit sa coastal road, but when you are going to endanger other people, siyempre we have to ensure everybody's safety," he explained, warning that accidents could lead to serious problems.
Broader Goals of the Initiative
Beyond physical fitness, SDD-CMO highlighted that Car-free Sundays are about promoting unity, healthy habits, and a shared recreational space. Aportadera called on participants to be mindful of others, saying, "Let us be mindful of other people who are also doing the same thing with you. Be safe, run safe, bike safe, train safe, and let’s enjoy Davao City as one of the major sports hubs in Mindanao."
This warning serves as a reminder that the program's success depends on collective respect and adherence to safety guidelines, ensuring it remains a beneficial activity for the entire community.
