‘National Bike-to-Work Day’

PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. has declared the last working day of November as “National Bike-to-Work Day” as part of government’s efforts to raise public awareness on the viability of cycling as a mode of transportation.

The move also aims to promote active transport in the Philippines.

Proclamation No. 409, released by Malacañang yesterday and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on November 28, seeks to promote cycling as a mainstream mode of transportation, and eventually improve cycling infrastructure in the Philippines.

The proclamation said the declaration also “aims to promote a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature, ensure a balance between development and environmental protection, and maintain a quality of air that protects human health and welfare.”

It said the post-pandemic “New Normal” requires the adoption of measures to enable safe, independent, physically-distanced travel, especially for essential workers, so that the country is better prepared in the event of another health emergency.

“The Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 underscores the need to develop active transport network, and accord highest priority to pedestrians and cyclists in the hierarchy of road users,” the proclamation said.

The Inter-Agency Technical Working Group on Active Transport of the Department of Health was tapped to lead, coordinate and supervise the observance of the “National Bike-to-Work Day.”

The working group will also identify programs, projects and activities for the annual celebration.