Senate backs use of bikes, walking as means of travel

The Senate will be supporting proposals that will promote the use of bikes and walking as means of travel.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said on Wednesday that members of the Upper Chamber are backing proposed programs that will encourage bicycle use and walking, especially as the country transitions to a "new normal" due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

"The Senate has been very supportive of that idea for quite some time now," Sotto said.

Sen. Ronald dela Rosa also said he finds the use of bicycles and walking as the new mode of transportation "very practical, economical, and healthy."

Senators have been calling for the construction of walkways and bicycle lanes to help ease the country's traffic problems and provide inter-connectivity for commuters and pedestrians.

They said these should be included in the government's infrastructure programs.

On Monday, Sen. Pia Cayetano filed a bill seeking to create a network of pop-up bicycle lanes and emergency pathways to prevent crowding in public utility vehicles and ensure that physical distancing is maintained among travelers.

Cayetano also said that this will also reduce carbon emissions, use less energy and resources, and provide multiple health benefits that improve the people’s quality of life.

A group of advocates called "Move as One Coalition" has also recommended ₱10-billion worth of programs and infrastructure projects that will promote bicycle-use and walking.

This is part of their proposed bail out for the transport sector while the government limits public transport operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board had earlier estimated that over two million commuters are expected to go out and take various modes of public transport once the enhanced community quarantine is lifted in Metro Manila.