The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Grab Philippines today announced a significant step forward in promoting active transportation and enhancing road safety, distributing bicycles and essential equipment to 20 deserving individuals as part of the government’s broader initiative to encourage sustainable travel.
The beneficiaries, selected through the “Ride to Thrive: Bike Giveaway for Mobility” campaign – a community-driven nomination process – received pedal-assist bicycles and helmets generously donated by Grab Philippines to the DOTr’s Active Transport Project Management Office. This initiative underscores a shared commitment to fostering healthier and more environmentally friendly commuting options.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has affirmed the government’s strong commitment to prioritizing active transport, specifically cycling and walking. His administration aims to elevate these modes of travel in the hierarchy of road users by developing crucial infrastructure, including safe walkways and secured bike lanes, to ensure the well-being and convenience of commuters.
In parallel efforts to bolster road safety, the DOTr is actively implementing upgraded pedestrian safety infrastructures along ADB Avenue in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. This project includes the installation of two raised pedestrian crossings in front of Discovery Suites Manila and the Asian Development Bank. These enhancements are designed to improve pedestrian visibility and encourage traffic calming, prompting drivers to reduce speed and yield to pedestrians.
“Road safety is not solely the obligation of the government, nor is it exclusively the responsibility of civil society groups; it is an obligation of everyone,” stated DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Atty. Mark Steven C. Pastor.
Undersecretary Pastor further emphasized the department’s dedication, adding, “We will continue to implement projects such as this to further strengthen and invigorate our cycling community, and we promise to provide infrastructure and protection for every Filipino cyclist.”
Through these concerted efforts, the DOTr reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advocating for road safety and raising public awareness regarding the protection of vulnerable road users across the Philippines.
