Miriam seeks establishment of bike-friendly communities

MANILA, Philippines - Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago has filed a bill seeking the establishment of bike-friendly communities nationwide to encourage commuters to use bicycles as an alternative means of transportation.

“With Filipinos struggling to cope with the increases in fuel prices, cycling provides an inexpensive, healthier and more earth-friendly alternative,” Santiago said.                           Senate bill No. 2789 mandates the Department of Transportation and Communication to establish a program to promote safety in the use of bikes in towns and cities.

It also stipulates that proper infrastructure for cyclists, such as bike lanes and parking spaces, be constructed in established biking communities. Government offices and major business establishments nationwide will also be required to provide parking spaces for bicycles.

Santiago cited the success of biking communities created in the cities of Amsterdam, Barcelona, Basel, Berlin, Beijing and Strasbourg.

A similar bill was filed by Senator Manuel Villar Jr. seeking the creation of bike lanes in main thoroughfares.

Senate Bill 2688 or the Bicycle Act of 2011 stipulates that the bike lanes will be identified and maintained by a Local Bikeways Office.

The office would be placed under the supervision of the city or municipal engineering office of local government units. Villar cited the creation of bike lanes in Marikina City.

The bill also provides for the creation of bicycle parks in cities and municipalities.