Manila: The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday initiated a campaign aimed at fostering a culture of discipline and civic responsibility among the public, in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to encourage responsible behavior.
According to Philippines News Agency, during the soft launch of the 'Yes to Ayos (Yes to Orderliness): Disiplina' campaign in Malabon, MMDA Chair Romando 'Don' Artes emphasized that the campaign is more than just a slogan. It represents a collective movement urging every Filipino to adopt discipline, accountability, and shared responsibility within their communities.
Artes highlighted the campaign's goal of promoting orderly streets, cleaner surroundings, safer neighborhoods, and a more livable Metro Manila. The focus is on instigating social behavioral changes in public attitudes towards discipline, rather than penalizing violators.
Artes stated, "We need behavioral change. We need to change the mindset of people when it comes to discipline. Not only for our community, but also for the younger generation." The campaign integrates two major MMDA programs-Bayanihan sa Barangay and Bayanihan sa Estero-that aim to bring MMDA services closer to the community or barangay level.
As part of the initiative, the MMDA introduced 'Lola Daisy Plina' as the official face of the campaign. Lola Daisy serves as a cultural reference to remind the public of the importance of discipline for a better community and Metro Manila. Artes described Lola Daisy as wearing a house dress and sporting a gray hair bun, embodying a warm and approachable Filipino cultural icon.
The campaign also introduced the 'Yes to Ayos' Code, which comprises 10 simple good habits designed to instill discipline. These include adhering to correct pedestrian crossings, following traffic regulations, keeping sidewalks obstruction-free, practicing the 4 Rs-Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle-avoiding the burning of garbage, preparing for emergencies or calamities, refusing to smoke or vape, queuing properly, being punctual, and being polite and respectful.
Artes expressed confidence that these simple acts of discipline would significantly improve the quality of life in Metro Manila. He invited local government units, barangays, and communities to participate in the campaign activities, emphasizing the importance of working together to establish a culture where orderliness becomes a norm.
