The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Tuesday it plans to increase the length of protected bike lanes in the country to 2,400 kilometers by 2028, as part of its active transport program.
The program, which is aligned with the National Transport Policy and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, aims to promote road safety and raise awareness of the health and economic benefits of using bicycles and other non-motorized modes of transportation.
The agency said it has established 564 kilometers of bike lanes so far in Metro Cebu, Metro Manila, and Metro Davao, and will continue to expand the network in other regions.
The announcement came as the DOTr celebrates Road Safety Month in May, which calls for responsibility and accountability on the road for all users, especially those who are most vulnerable.
“As we rethink mobility and shift our focus on the most vulnerable road users, the call for responsibility and accountability on the road is further reiterated,” the DOTr said in a statement. “Everyone is also enjoined that all road users, particularly those who are most at risk, deserve uncompromised safety on the road.”
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The pandemic restrictions in 2021 prompted the implementation of bike lanes. The network of bike lanes complemented public transportation and enabled people to commute safely during the pandemic.
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Image: MACEA
