Danao City welcomes the 2024 Gathering of the Clean Mobility
Collective – Southeast Asia (CMC SEA) delegates, marking a significant milestone as the city
becomes the first in the Philippines to host this international conference. Today, Mayor Thomas
Mark “Mix” Durano personally greets the 35-member delegation at El Salvador Beach Resort,
Sabang, Danao City, setting the stage for a series of events that will span from September 4 to 6, 2024.
The Clean Mobility Collective – Southeast Asia is a network of diverse civil society groups and
non-state actors committed to advancing sustainable, inclusive and zero-emissions mobility
solutions in cities across Southeast Asia, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh,
Jakarta, Metro Cebu and Metro Manila. Their annual gathering serves as a platform to exchange
best practices, share lessons learned and collaboratively develop an operational plan that addresses
the transport sector’s role in reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the ASEAN region.
Mayor Mix Durano, in his opening remarks, expresses his immense pride in hosting the event,
highlighting Danao City’s achievements in promoting low-carbon mobility and sustainable urban
development. “Being chosen as the host city for passionate advocates of clean and safe
transportation is a huge privilege and a source of pride for Danao City,” he states. “I am hopeful
that this will not be your first and last visit to our city.”
Danao City’s commitment to sustainable transport is evident in its various initiatives, such as the
promotion of active transport, particularly cycling, the development of walkable public spaces and
preserving “trisikad” (pedal-powered rickshaws) as a primary mode of transport in the city center.
As the Bike Capital of Cebu Island, Danao City has long been recognized for its support in cycling,
having hosted local and international bike competitions, including the 2005 Southeast Asian Games.
In his message, Mayor Durano also shares the city’s efforts to cater to all age groups and genders,
aiming to create a resilient and inclusive environment for its residents. Among the city’s notable
projects is the recently inaugurated Senior Citizens Park, designed to provide a safe and accessible
space for the elderly to engage in physical activities, socialize and connect with the younger generation.
The delegation of CMC SEA members will also experience firsthand Danao City’s innovative
initiatives during their stay, including a visit to the Tawsan Mangrove Eco-Park, a community-led
tourism project that embodies the city’s commitment to sustainable development and local
empowerment, and the City’s Heritage and Cultural Walk and Bike Tour, which will connect them
with Danao City’s rich history.
Mayor Durano concludes his remarks with optimism, “Your presence in our city reinforces our
vision of becoming a resilient city, recognizing what is happening now, and preparing for what is to come.”
The Clean Mobility Collective Southeast Asia’s choice of Danao City as the venue for their 2024
gathering highlights the city’s progressive approach to transportation and urban development,
making it a model for other cities in the region to follow.
Their three-day conference from September 4 to 6, 2024, also coincides with Danao City’s Fiesta,
allowing participants to immerse themselves in the rich culture and practices of the Danawanons.
As the CMCSEA members continue their work toward achieving fossil-free, healthy, and safe
cities, Danao City is proud to contribute to this shared vision, HERE AND NOW.